Joyce Kilmer Trip Breakdown and Photos

Trails covered

1. Joyce Kilmer National Recreation Trail - 1.2 miles (lower loop), 0.8 miles (upper loop)
1. Start elevation: 2,240 ft
2. Highest elevation: 2,640 ft
3. Why: Mature old growth forest with beautiful trees, easy walking 
4. Pro tip: The big mamma jammas are at the far end of the trail on the upper loop. Make sure to locate the Naked Ground trailhead next to the bridge over Santeetlah if you're headed up there after taking the loop.
2. Naked Ground Trail - 4.5 miles
1. Start elevation: 2,300 ft (in the memorial forest)
2. End elevation: 4,860 ft (at Naked Ground Gap)
3. Why: Relatively well maintained, easy beginning section, but switchbacks near the gap are steep, Gold Star campsite at Naked Ground, gorgeous wildflower display in spring
4. Pro tip: Hit the trail early to score the best campsite.
3. Slickrock Creek Trail (to Big Fat Gap intersection) - 5.3 miles
1. Start elevation: 2,010 ft (at Big Fat Gap trail intersection)
2. End elevation: 4,860 ft (at Naked Ground Gap)
3. Why: Great views over the valley and the chance to consider yourself a bad ass if you make it outta there.
4. Pro tip: Just don't do this trail unless you are a masochist. For real. 535 feet every mile of ascent or descent. That's insane.
4. Big Fat Gap Trail - 1.5 miles
1. Start elevation: 3,060 ft (at trailhead)
2. End elevation: 2,010 ft (at Slickrock Creek)
3. Why: The fastest way to get to Slickrock Creek! It's also a pretty wide trail that provides for easy walking going down.
4. Pro tip: If leaving out this trail plan for extra time to account for steepness. That's over 1,000 feet of elevation in just 1.5 short miles.

Masi ready for Day 2

Lego and Masi chill out in a scenic mountain stream while we take a break to rinse ourselves

BLUETS!

The view from my tent window at Naked Ground

Traveling companions headed up Naked Ground Trail

Potential Christmas card photo!

A happy dog

Another happy dog!

Trilliums everywhere!

Liz takes a break before we reach Naked Ground

Gorgeous scenery takes our minds off Slickrock Creek Trail's ball bustingness

Wild iris

My backpacking pals

The morning view of the Slickrock Creek valley is breath taking

Liz shoulders her giant pack full of rain soaked gear on Day 2

Massive snails abound along the trail

I did the thing

A sea of trilliums

It was a little chilly on night 1. Snuggles helped.