Did from Shining rock wilderness area I think on MTS trail. Last half mile was a bushwack, may have been a faint manway, can't remember. Anyway, beautiful summit area, but no views.
Started from Rough Butt Bald overlook and followed the MST to the trail to the top. I was surprised by the grassy fields and openings in the forest on the way up. There were some splendid views toward the Shining Rock Wilderness.
We hiked it from the Rough Butt Bald overlook on the BRP. On the MST we found the spur trail that leads to the summit. Thanks to whoever is doing maintenance on the spur; we followed cut pine branches and cane all the way to the top. They were equally invaluable on the descent - when we didn't see them we reascended until we found them again. Arrived back at the car just as the rain and hail started.
This one definitely feels like it's off the beaten track. We hiked this one starting with Chestnut Bald (and return) from Devil's Courthouse for a total trip of 7+ miles. No one seems to get up here much. Summit trail can be a bit tough to find. It's just east of the Green Ridge(?) trail, before the junction with MST.
Cinco de mayo on Mt. Hardy Date Climbed: May 5, 2006
Mt Hardy is one of the most splendid Southern Sixers. I especially dig the grassy slopes and the unique solitude the mountain provides. Like many of the other Southern Sixers, my wife & I had this summit all to ourselves. On our descent, the skies opened up & we were treated to spring thunderstorm that accentuated the various hues of green in the forest.