Books by Johnny Molloy

Book SynopsisDiscover 50 of the state’s best campgrounds for car campers, with the guide that offers essential details and easy-to-read maps. The Centennial State provides a spectacular backdrop for some of the most scenic campgrounds in the country. But do you know which campgrounds offer the most privacy or the best lakeside views? Monica Parpal Stockbridge traversed the entire state—from the historic Mesa Verde National Park to the bird watcher’s paradise at Pawnee National Grassland—and compiled the most up-to-date research to steer you to the perfect spot! With Best Tent Camping: Colorado, you’ll always know what to expect. The new full-color edition of this proven guidebook provides everything you need to know. Inside you’ll find: 50 campgrounds in national parks, state parks, and other breathtaking locales, organized into five distinct regions Selections based on location, topography, nearby activities, and overall appeal Detailed maps of each campground and key information such as fees, restrictions, dates of operation, and facilities Driving directions and GPS coordinates Ratings for beauty, privacy, spaciousness, noise level, security, and cleanliness Whether you seek a quiet campground near a fish-filled stream or a family campground with all the amenities, grab Best Tent Camping: Colorado. It's a keeper for all who wish to find those special locales that offer a true connection with nature.Trade Review"A superb guide and a 'must-have' for anyone determined to experience the wilds of Colorado for themselves." —The Midwest Book Review "Discover 50 of the safest and most scenic campgrounds in the state." —Colorado Homes & LifestylesTable of ContentsColorado Campground Locator Map Acknowledgments Preface Best Campgrounds Map Legend Introduction Eastern Colorado Jackson Lake State Park Campground John Martin Reservoir State Wildlife Area: Lake Hasty and The Point Campgrounds Pawnee National Grassland: Crow Valley Family Campground South Republican State Wildlife Area Dispersed Camping North Central Colorado Buffalo Campground The Crags Campground Elbert Creek Campground Pinewood Reservoir Campground Gold Park Campground Golden Gate Canyon State Park Campgrounds Guanella Pass Campground Hermit Park Open Space: Hermit’s Hollow Campground Rocky Mountain National Park: Longs Peak Campground Lost Park Campground The Narrows Campgrounds: Lower Peaceful Valley and Camp Dick Campgrounds Rainbow Lakes Campground Robbers Roost Campground Rocky Mountain National Park: Aspenglen Campground Weston Pass Campground Staunton State Park Campground Northwest Colorado Cold Springs Campground Colorado National Monument: Saddlehorn Campground Dinosaur National Monument: Echo Park Campground Fulford Cave Campground Irish Canyon Campground Rifle Falls State Park Campground Shepherds Rim Campground Pearl Lake State Park Campground Weir and Johnson Campground South Central Colorado Alvarado Campground Bear Lake Campground Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve: Pinon Flats Campground East Ridge Campground O’Haver Lake Campground Mueller State Park Campground North Crestone Creek Campground Trujillo Meadows Campground Southwest Colorado Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park: North Rim Campground Burro Bridge Campground Cathedral Campground Lost Lake Campground Lost Trail Campground Mesa Verde National Park: Morefield Campground Mirror Lake Campground Ridgway State Park Campgrounds Silver Jack Campground Amphitheater Campground Stone Cellar Campground Transfer Park Campground Appendix A: Camping Equipment Checklist Appendix B: Sources of Information Index About the Authors

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover 40 five-star hiking trails in and around Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol, including popular routes and hidden gems. From high mountains to the east and south to the historic walks in Tennessee, the Tri-Cities of Tennessee and Virginia are a hiker’s nirvana. This region offers hundreds of miles of trails to explore in and around Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol, as well as the surrounding areas of Abingdon, Elizabethton, Greeneville, and Rogersville. Drawing from a wealth of trails on vast public lands and encompassing the Cherokee, Jefferson, and Pisgah national forests, the mosaic of hikes reflects the wide variety of terrain. State parks preserve beautiful places to visit, and urban parks provide quick, easy nature escapes. The Appalachian Trail, the most heralded and hiked footpath in our country, curves within range of the Tri-Cities for nearly 70 miles. Explore 40 of the region’s best, five-star trails with this easy-to-carry and easy-to-use guidebook. In the updated edition, acclaimed author and hiking expert Johnny Molloy shares everything you need to know about the area’s spectacular outings, from convenient suburban greenways to wilderness treks at an elevation of 6,000 feet. Inside you’ll find: Descriptions of 40 five-star hiking trails for all levels and interests GPS-based trail maps, elevation profiles, and detailed directions to trailheads Insight into the history, flora, and fauna of the routes Ratings for scenery, difficulty, trail condition, solitude, and accessibility for children Lace up, grab your pack, and hit the trail!Table of ContentsOverview Map Overview Map Key Preface Recommended Hikes Introduction Greater Johnson City Hickey Fork Loop Big Firescald Loop Margarette Falls Old Forge Loop Squibb Creek Falls Buckeye Falls Sill Branch Falls Loop Lower Higgins Creek Falls and Hidden Lake High Rocks Vista Rock Creek Falls Emerald Forest Walk Nolichucky Gorge Loop Gardens of Roan and Roan High Bluff Roan Mountain Highlands Hike Overmountain Victory Trail Behrend Trail at Roan Mountain State Park Falls of Upper Laurel Fork Laurel Falls Watauga Lake Hike Views from Vandeventer Pinnacle Tower Hike Buffalo Mountain Persimmon Ridge Park Greater Kingsport Fall Creek Loop at Warriors Path State Park Kingsport Greenbelt Bays Mountain Lake Loop Bays Mountain Tower Loop Falls of Laurel Run Natural Tunnel Devil’s Bathtub Falls of Little Stony Greater Bristol Great Channels of Virginia Feathercamp Loop Damascus Loop Backbone Rock Gentry Creek Falls Cross Mountain Hike Flint Rock from Holston High Knob Beaver Creek Knobs Loop Lakeside Trail Appendix A: Outdoor Retailers Appendix B: Hiking Clubs Index About the Author Map Legend

Read more less

Book SynopsisBest Easy Day Hikes Jacksonville includes concise descriptions of the best short hikes in the area, with detailed maps of the routes. The 20 hikes in this guide are generally short, easy to follow, and guaranteed to please.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFew hikers know the North Georgia Mountains as well as Johnny Molloy. In 50 stunning trails, he’ll take you to waterfalls, overlooks, gigantic trees, historic sites, and landmarks such as Tallulah Gorge, Raven Cliff Falls, and the Chattooga River. In a region with an incredible wealth of hiking options, Molloy outlines his picks for the most worthwhile routes, providing options for day, overnight, and multi-day hikes for explorers of every skill level. This fully updated 4th edition of 50 Hikes in the North Georgia Mountains features 5 brand new trails, detailed maps, clear and concise directions, and expert tips for enjoying every moment of your hike—whether you’re looking for sublime mountaintop views, peaceful walks through nature, or your next great challenge. Including full-color photographs and maps, this is the perfect book to help you plan the ultimate Georgia outdoor adventure!

Read more less

Book SynopsisWho says you have to travel far from home to go on a great hike, paddle, or bike ride? Best Outdoor Adventures Asheville details forty of the best hikes, paddles, and bike routes within an hour's drive of the Land of the Sky (along with extra information on climbing and camping adventures), perfect for the urban dweller and suburbanite who may be hard-pressed to find great outdoor activities close to home.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHiking Waterfalls Tennessee includes detailed hike descriptions, maps, and color photos for approximately 100 of the state's most scenic waterfall hikes. Hike descriptions include history, local trivia, and GPS coordinates. Hiking Waterfalls in Tennessee will take you through state and national parks, forests, monuments and wilderness areas, and from popular city parks to the most remote and secluded corners of the area to view the most spectacular waterfalls.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPerfect Camping for You in Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia The Southern Appalachian and Smoky Mountains provide spectacular backdrops for some of the most scenic campgrounds in the country. But do you know which campgrounds offer the most privacy? Which are the best for first-time campers? Johnny Molloy has traversed the entire region—tree-topped mountains, clear streams, and lush woodlands of East Tennessee, western North Carolina, northern Georgia, and western South Carolina—and compiled the most up-to-date research to steer you to the ideal spot! Best Tent Camping: Southern Appalachian and Smoky Mountains presents 50 of the region’s best campgrounds, organized by state. Selections are based on location, topography, size, and overall appeal, and every site is rated for beauty, privacy, spaciousness, safety and security, and cleanliness—so you’ll always know what to expect. The new full-color edition of this proven guidebook provides everything you need to know, with detailed maps of each campground and key information such as fees, restrictions, dates of operation, and facilities, as well as driving directions and GPS coordinates. Whether you seek a quiet campground near a remote highland stream or a family campground with all the amenities, grab Best Tent Camping: Southern Appalachian and Smoky Mountains. It’s an escape for all who wish to find those special locales that recharge the mind, body, and spirit. This guide is a keeper.Table of ContentsSouthern Appalachians–Smokies Campground Locator Map Map Legend Acknowledgments Preface Best Campgrounds Introduction Tennessee Campgrounds Bandy Creek Campground Chilhowee Campground Cosby Campground Dennis Cove Campground Foster Falls Campground Frozen Head State Park Campground Hiwassee–Ocoee Scenic River State Park Campground Holly Flats Campground Indian Boundary Campground Little Oak Campground Nolichucky Gorge Campground and Cabins North River Campground Obed Wild and Scenic River: Rock Creek Campground Old Forge Campground Paint Creek Campground Pickett State Park Campground Rock Creek Campground Round Mountain Campground North Carolina Campgrounds Balsam Mountain Campground Big Creek Campground Black Mountain Campground Cable Cove Campground Cataloochee Campground Doughton Park Campground Horse Cove Campground Lake Powhatan Campground Linville Falls Campground Mount Mitchell State Park Campground Mount Pisgah Campground Nelson’s Nantahala Hideaway Campground North Mills River Campground Price Park Campground Rocky Bluff Campground Smokemont Campground Standing Indian Campground Tsali Campground Van Hook Glade Campground South Carolina Campgrounds Burrells Ford Campground Cherry Hill Campground Devils Fork State Park Campground Keowee–Toxaway State Park Campground Georgia Campgrounds Black Rock Mountain State Park Campground Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground DeSoto Falls Campground Dockery Lake Campground Fort Mountain State Park Campground Lake Conasauga Campground Tate Branch Campground Upper Chattahoochee Campground Wildcat Creek Campground Appendix A: Camping Equipment Checklist Appendix B: Sources of Information Index About the Author

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe South''s best day hikes on the Appalachian Trail! Best Hikes of the Appalachian Trail: South details 45 hikes along the AT from the trail''s southern terminus atop Georgia''s Springer Mountain north through North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. These superlative treks visit overlooks, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and wilderness, as well as scenic, cultural, and historical siteseven trail towns. This selection of hikes reflects the great variety of features the southern AT provides, and the guide is authored by the Southeast''s most experienced outdoor writer, Johnny Molloy.Table of ContentsOverview Map Overview Map Key Dedication Acknowledgments Preface Hiking Recommendations Introduction Georgia 1 Springer Mountain Circuit 2 Long Creek Falls 3 Preaching Rock 4 Slaughter Creek Loop 5 Blood Mountain Loop 6 Rocky Mountain 7 Tray Mountain Wilderness Tennessee and North Carolina 8 Standing Indian Mountain 9 Silers Bald 10 Wesser Bald Tower 11 Shuckstack Loop 12 Spence Field–Russell Field Loop 13 Clingmans Dome Vistas 14 Charlies Bunion 15 Mount Cammerer 16 Max Patch 17 Lovers Leap 18 Big Firescald Loop 19 High Rocks Vista20 Highlands of Roan 21 Big Hump Mountain 22 Laurel Falls 23 Watauga Lake Hike 24 Views from Vandeventer 25 Cross Mountain Virginia 26 Damascus Loop 27 Mount Rogers via Elk Garden 28 Mount Rogers High County 29 Chestnut Knob 30 Angels Rest 31 Mountain Lake Wilderness 32 Kelly Knob 33 Dragons Tooth 34 McAfee Knob 35 Apple Orchard Falls Loop 36 Ottie Powell Memorial 37 The Priest 38 Humpback Rocks Loop 39 Blackrock Summit 40 Falls Loop from Browns Gap 41 Rapidan Camp Loop 42 Lewis Spring Falls Loop 43 Stony Man Loop 44 Marys Rock via The Pinnacle 45 Sugarloaf Loop APPENDIX A: Contact Information APPENDIX B: Appalachian Trail Communities INDEX ABOUT THE AUTHOR ABOUT THE APPALACHIAN TRAIL CONSERVANCY

Read more less

Book SynopsisHike near Nashville, Tennessee, on 60 of the area’s best trails! The best way to experience Nashville is by hiking it. Get outdoors with veteran Tennessee outdoorsman Johnny Molloy, with the full-color edition of 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Nashville. A perfect blend of popular trails and hidden gems, the selected hikes transport you to scenic overlooks, wildlife hot spots, and historical settings that renew your spirit and recharge your body. Take in the beautiful wildflowers and magnificent wildlife on the Henry Hollow Loop at Beaman Park. Immerse yourself in history along the Gordon House and Ferry Site Walk, just off the Natchez Trace Parkway. Enjoy a hike with the entire family on Old Hickory Lake Nature Trail, part of the Nashville Greenway system. Challenge yourself with climbs and descents along the Bearwaller Gap Hiking Trail, one of the finest paths in middle Tennessee. With Johnny as your guide, you’ll learn about the area and experience nature through 60 spectacular outings! Each hike description features key at-a-glance information on distance, difficulty, scenery, traffic, hiking time, and more, so you can quickly and easily learn about each trail. Detailed directions, GPS-based trail maps, and elevation profiles help to ensure that you know where you are and where you’re going. Tips on nearby activities further enhance your enjoyment of every outing. Whether you’re a local looking for new places to explore or a visitor to the area, 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Nashville provides plenty of options for a couple hours or a full day of adventure, all within about an hour from Nashville and the surrounding communities.Table of ContentsOverview Map Acknowledgments Foreword Preface 60 Hikes by Category Introduction Nashville Bells Bend Loop Bryant Grove Trail Couchville Lake Trail Ganier Ridge Loop Harpeth Woods Trail Jones Mill Trail MetroCenter Levee Greenway Mill Creek Greenway Mossy Ridge Trail Old Hickory Lake Nature Trail Peeler Park Hike Richland Creek Greenway: McCabe Loop Shelby Bottoms Nature Park: East Loop Shelby Bottoms Nature Park: West Loop South Radnor Lake Loop Stones River Greenway of Nashville Volunteer-Day Loop Warner Woods Trail West (including Ashland City, Clarksville, and Dickson) Confederate Earthworks Walk Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail Dunbar Cave State Natural Park Loop Fort Donelson Battlefield Loop Henry Hollow Loop Hidden Lake Double Loop Johnsonville State Historic Park Loop Montgomery Bell Northeast Loop Montgomery Bell Southwest Loop Narrows of Harpeth Hike Nathan Bedford Forrest Five-Mile Trail Ridgetop Trail at Beaman Park Southwest (including Columbia, Fairview, and Franklin) Devil’s Backbone Loop Gordon House and Ferry Site Walk Heritage Park/Thompson’s Station Park Hike Lakes of Bowie Loop Meriwether Lewis Loop Old Trace-Garrison Creek Loop Perimeter Trail Southeast (including Brentwood, Murfreesboro, and Smyrna) Adeline Wilhoite River Trail Brenthaven Bikeway Connector Cheeks Bend Bluff View Trail Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens Hike Hickory Ridge Trail Old Mill Trail Old Stone Fort Loop Short Springs State Natural Area Hike Smith Park Hike Stones River Greenway of Murfreesboro Stones River National Battlefield Loop Twin Forks Trail Wild Turkey Trail East (including Gallatin, Hendersonville, Lebanon, and Mount Juliet) Bearwaller Gap Hiking Trail Bledsoe Creek State Park Loop Cedar Forest Trail Collins River Nature Trail Eagle Trail Edgar Evins State Park Hike Hidden Springs Trail Sellars Farm State Archaeological Area Vesta Glade Trail Wilderness Trail Appendix A: Outdoor Shops Appendix B: Places to Buy Maps Appendix C: Hiking Clubs Index About the Author Map Legend

Read more less

Book SynopsisPerfect Camping for You in North Carolina and South Carolina! The Carolinas provide spectacular backdrops for some of the most scenic campgrounds in the country. But do you know which campgrounds offer the most privacy? Which are the best for first-time campers? Johnny Molloy has traversed the entire region—from the alluring Blue Ridge Mountains to the saltwater-washed sands of the Atlantic coast—and compiled the most up-to-date research to steer you to the perfect spot! The full-color, updated, user-friendly format lets you easily find 50 of the best campgrounds to fit your travel plans and meet your personal interests, with author selections based on location, topography, size, and overall appeal. Detailed maps of each campground and key information such as fees, restrictions, dates of operation, and facilities help to narrow down your choices, and ratings for beauty, privacy, spaciousness, safety and security, and cleanliness ensure that you find your perfect car-camping adventure. So whether you seek a quiet campground near a fish-filled stream or a family campground with all the amenities, Best Tent Camping: The Carolinas is a keeper.Table of ContentsNorth Carolina Campground Overview Map South Carolina Campground Overview Map Map Legend Acknowledgments Preface Best Campgrounds Introduction NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS Balsam Mountain Campground Big Creek Campground Cable Cove Campground Cataloochee Campground Doughton Park Campground Julian Price Park Campground Lake James State Park Campgrounds Lake Powhatan Campground Linville Falls Campground Mount Mitchell State Park Campground Mount Pisgah Campground New River State Park: Wagoner Access Campground North Mills River Campground Rocky Bluff Campground Smokemont Campground South Mountains State Park Campground Standing Indian Campground Sunburst Campground Tsali Campground NORTH CAROLINA PIEDMONT Badin Lake Campground Hanging Rock State Park Campground Lake Norman State Park Campground Morrow Mountain State Park Campground Pilot Mountain State Park Campground NORTH CAROLINA COAST AND COASTAL PLAIN Carolina Beach State Park Campground Cliffs of the Neuse State Park Campground Frisco Campground Goose Creek State Park Campground Jones Lake State Park Campground Lumber River State Park: Princess Ann Access Campground Merchants Millpond State Park Campground Neuse River Campground (Flanners Beach) Ocracoke Campground SOUTH CAROLINA UPCOUNTRY Cherry Hill Campground Devils Fork State Park Campground Jones Gap State Park Campground Keowee–Toxaway State Park Campground Table Rock State Park Campgrounds SOUTH CAROLINA MIDLANDS Brick House Campground Calhoun Falls State Park Campground Kings Mountain State Park Campground LeRoys Ferry Campground Lick Fork Lake Campground Parsons Mountain Lake Campground Poinsett State Park Campground Sand Hills State Forest Campground Woods Ferry Campground SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY Honey Hill Campground Huntington Beach State Park Campgrounds Little Pee Dee State Park Campground APPENDIX A: CAMPING EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST APPENDIX B: SOURCES OF INFORMATION INDEX ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover 40 five-star hiking trails in West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest, including popular routes and hidden gems. The Monongahela National Forest is the heart and soul of West Virginia’s outdoors scene and a natural getaway for hikers and weekend backpackers. With the Dolly Sods and Otter Creek wildernesses to the north and the Cranberry Backcountry to the south—plus special places like the Falls of Hills Creek and Seneca Rocks—the “Mon” offers more than 800 miles of hiking opportunities to rocky overlooks, backcountry waterfalls, and botanically rich parcels, all within a short drive of Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Virginia. Explore 40 of the region’s best, five-star trails with this easy-to-carry and easy-to-use guidebook. In the updated edition, acclaimed author and hiking expert Johnny Molloy shares everything you need to know about spectacular outings that lead to mountain panoramas, untamed streams, remote wilderness, and more. Inside you’ll find: Descriptions of 40 five-star hiking trails for all levels and interests GPS-based trail maps, elevation profiles, and detailed directions to trailheads Insight into the history, flora, and fauna of the routes Ratings for scenery, difficulty, trail condition, solitude, and accessibility for children Lace up, grab your pack, and hit the trail!Table of ContentsOverview Map Overview Map Key Preface Recommended Hikes Introduction Dolly Sods Wilderness–Otter Creek Wilderness Area Raven Ridge Loop Blackbird Knob Vista Red Creek Falls via Fisher Spring Run Rohrbaugh Overlook Dunkenbarger Loop Boars Nest Loop Red Creek Plains Chimney Top Big Bend Loop Seneca Rocks Blackwater Canyon Vistas Table Rock Overlook Lower Otter Creek Wilderness Otter Creek Wilderness Loop Seneca Creek Backcountry–Laurel Fork Wilderness Area Horton-Spring Ridge Loop North Prong Loop Upper Falls of Seneca Creek Spruce Knob and Huckleberry Trail Laurel Fork North Wilderness Laurel Fork South Wilderness Camp Five Run Loop High Falls Shavers Mountain via Johns Camp Run East Fork Greenbrier Hike Greater Cranberry Wilderness Area Red Spruce Knob Gauley Mountain Loop Tea Creek Loop Big Beechy Run Falls Lick Branch Falls Falls of Middle Fork Black Mountain Circuit High Rock Blue Knob Cowpasture Loop Cranberry Glades Interpretive Boardwalk Falls of Hills Creek Summit Lake Loop Laurel Creek Circuit Lake Sherwood Loop Blue Bend Loop Appendix: Monongahela National Forest Contact Information Index About the Author Map Legend

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the coastal bluffs of the Panhandle to the wild Everglades, Backpacking Florida features 40 overnight trail adventures covering a total of 600 miles across the state. Expert outdoorsman Johnny Molloy provides readers with the tools and information they need to unplug and experience Florida’s amazing variety of ecosystems.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHiking the Berkshires is your guide to enjoying all of the fresh air, gorgeous foliage, stunning views, and welcoming hikes that the Berkshires have to offer. From families looking for mild walks and day hikes to more adventurous hikers looking for a strenuous summit experience up Mount Greylock or Saddle Ball Mountain, author Nick Shigo has a hike for everyone. Look inside to find detailed maps, color trail photos, information on local outfitters, lodgings and restaurants, as well as details on important access roads and parking areas.Wherever you want to hike in Berkshire County, this guide will point you in the right direction on your adventure.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDescribes 50 great hikes, highlighting the history and geography of each route. The book includes exhaustively detailed trail descriptions, mile-by-mile directional cues, trail contacts, elevation profiles, and GPS-quality maps.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhether you’re looking for a sun-splashed jaunt amid mangroves and strangler figs, an exhilarating trek across palmetto prairies, or a detour down forgotten roads into years past, Day Hiking Southwest Florida has the perfect outdoor adventure. Johnny Molloy shares forty of his favourite “front country” hikes through city, county, and state parks and their surrounding wild lands.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNorth Carolina’s state parks reflect the natural abundance and variety in the Tar Heel State, with preserves located in each of the major regions from mountains to coast. With this guide, Johnny Molloy details the best hikes to enjoy in North Carolina’s expanding state parks system.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFeaturing over40 of the best hikes in the greaterMadisonarea, this fully-revised second edition points locals and visitors alike to trailheads within an hour's drive of the city.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWho says you have to travel far from home to go on a great hike? In Best Hikes Columbus veteran hiker Johnny Molloy offers the absolute best hikes in the greater Columbus area. Each featured trail is perfect for the urban and suburbanite hard-pressed to find outdoor activities close to home. This guide leads you up hills, over creeks, and through forests to the best outdoor adventures around Columbus:Discover incredible vistas and spectacular rock formations at Conkles HollowExplore an aboriginal village site at Battelle Darby Creek Park. Experience Ohio's natural beauty at the Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve. Every chapter includes up-to-date hike specs, a brief hike description, directional cues, and a detailed map.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWho says you have to travel far from home to go on a great hike? In Best Hikes Charlotte veteran hikers Jennifer Pharr Davis and Johnny Molloy offer the absolute best hikes in the greater Charlotte area. Each featured trail is perfect for the urban and suburbanite hard-pressed to find outdoor activities close to home. This guide leads you up mountains, over creeks, and through forests to the best outdoor adventures around Charlotte:Discover the gorgeous views at Crowders Mountain where Kings Pinnacle rises high above the Charlotte skyline. Explore the family-friendly Jetton Park Trail with its beaches, picnic areas, and scenic trails. Experience America's past at the Kings Mountain National Military Park and the Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site. Every chapter includes up-to-date hike specs, a brief hike description, directional cues, and a detailed map.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe hardest part of paddling South Carolina is choosing your route! From the mountain-rimmed waters of Lake Jocassee to the rapids of the Saluda River to rice-field canals along Wadboo Creek, the Palmetto State offers a variety of great paddles all year-round. Paddling South Carolina features 40 paddling adventures throughout the state. With a focus on recreational paddling, all trips avoid complicated put-ins, portages, and dangerous expert sections but offers concise paddle summaries, excellent route descriptions, GPS coordinates, and sidebars on geology and wildlife. Lakes and ponds, rivers and creeks are featured.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBest Easy Day Hiking Guide and Trail Map Bundle: New River Gorge National Park and Preserve includes detailed maps and concise descriptions for easy-to-follow hikes in the beautiful New River Gorge National Park and Reserve as well as a trail map from National Geographic.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNow updated with a new predface that examines dramatic changes in his favourite hiking and camping area, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this classic adventure chronicle, which first appeared in 1996, launched the outdoor writing career of Johnny Molloy. The author of over sixty invaluable hiking, camping, and paddling guides to natural destinations all over the country, Molloy has turned irresistible enthusiasm for the great outdoors, evident in this book, into a profound career, dedicated to honouring and celebrating our greatest wild places—and helping others enjoy them as much as he has. In fourteen lively personal essays, Johnny Molloy describes the adventures by which he came of age as a backpacker. Born a “flatlander” in Memphis, he first visited the Smokies while attending the University of Tennessee-Knoxville in the 1980s. Initially, he treated the park as a personal playground—a place to cut loose, break rules, and act irresponsibly. After many hiking excursions, however, he gained a more profound appreciation of the mountains, becoming an avid park volunteer intent on the protection and improvement of the area. He grew, as he puts it, both as an outdoor adventurer and as a human being. Interwoven throughout these pieces is a wealth of Smoky Mountains lore and history along with dozens of tips for novice backpackers. Molloy’s stories encompass backpacking during all four seasons as well as accounts of solo hiking, off-trail hiking, and whitewater canoeing. Whether describing the hazards of crossing a stream in winter or what to do—and not to do—when one encounters a bear or a rattlesnake, Molloy writes with an infectious enthusiasm that will delight any lover of the outdoors.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTennessee’s Cumberland Plateau, a wide tableland cut with a dizzying array of deep gorges, is a geological wonderland. It is a place to behold and savor. This updated second edition covers hikes from the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Kentucky to the fascinating Walls of Jericho astride the Alabama state line; from the thousand-foot gorge cut by the mighty Tennessee River down Chattanooga way to the watery beauty of Virgin Falls by Sparta. Specific emphasis is placed on the most scenic destinations and the unique places that make the plateau so special, places like the Great Stone Door, with its sandstone formations and vertical rock walls, and Cumberland Mountain State Park, with its ancient trees and evidence of ancient human history. Also included are comprehensive maps for each hike, scenic photos, and a hikes-at-a-glance table that makes choosing your desired hike a breeze.

Read more less