HardHigh Knob Wilderness
Summit Traverse
Distance
9.4 mi
Elevation gain
2,800 ft
Duration
5–7 hrs
Difficulty
Hard
The longest single-day route in the area, connecting two named summits across exposed ridge. Sustained climbing for the first three miles, then a knife-edge traverse with minimal tree cover. Not a casual outing — save it for a clear day with an early start.
Highlights
- Panoramic summit at mile 3.2 (4,620 ft elevation)
- Knife-edge ridge with exposure on both sides
- Second summit at mile 7.1 with a USGS benchmark
Trail tips
- Start by 7 AM — afternoon thunderstorms are common June through August.
- The ridge above treeline is fully exposed; turn around if weather rolls in.
- Trekking poles strongly recommended for the descent.
summitexposedstrenuous
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