"Jester" Section Hiker

Join Jester on a beautiful morning at the Black Mountain Campground before she heads off toward Banner Elk, North Carolina to hike Flat Top Mountain at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. In this episode, Jester explores breathtaking trails, delves into history from Peter Barr's book, Hiking North Carolina's Lookout Towers, and shares encounters with fellow hikers along the way. Experience the journey of reaching the Flat Top Tower, marvel at the panoramic views, and follow Jester's steps toward completing a 16-year hiking challenge. Don't miss Jester's tips on trail landmarks, the burial sites of Moses and Bertha Cone, and upcoming hiking plans!

Resources For Hiking To Flat Top Mountain: 

Hiking North Carolina's Lookout Towers: https://blairpub.com/shop/p/exploring-north-carolinas-lookout-towers  

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park: https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/moses-h-cone-memorial-park-mp-294.htm 

Additional Resources Mentioned: 

NC High Peaks Association: https://nchighpeaks.org/ 

Appalachian High Route: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082060750253 

Carolina Mountain Club: https://carolinamountainclub.org/ 

Black Mountain Campground: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273780 

Go Fund Me For Peter Barr: https://www.gofundme.com/f/peter-barrs-recovery-from-brain-surgery 

Podcast Episode With Peter Barr: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/episode-70-peter-j-barr-whippersnap/ 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

In this episode of the "Jester" Section Hiker Podcast, host Julie "Jester" Gayheart takes listeners along for a hike to the Green Knob Lookout Tower from Black Mountain Campground in Western North Carolina. Julie describes the scenic setting of her campsite before embarking on the strenuous 3.3-mile ascent, emphasizing the breathtaking views of the Black Mountains and Mt. Mitchell. She provides historical details from Peter Barr's book, Hiking North Carolina's Lookout Towers, and shares personal hiking tips. Julie concludes with future hiking plans including the Black Mountain Crest Trail and the Appalachian High Route.

Resources For Hiking To Green Knob Lookout Tower: 

Hiking North Carolina's Lookout Towers: https://blairpub.com/shop/p/exploring-north-carolinas-lookout-towers  

NC High Peaks Association: https://nchighpeaks.org/ 

Appalachian High Route: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082060750253 

Carolina Mountain Club: https://carolinamountainclub.org/ 

Black Mountain Campground: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273780 

All Trails App: https://www.alltrails.com/ 

Go Fund Me For Peter Barr: https://www.gofundme.com/f/peter-barrs-recovery-from-brain-surgery 

Podcast Episode With Peter Barr: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/episode-70-peter-j-barr-whippersnap/ 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

On Saturday August 10, 2024, your host Julie "Jester" Gayheart embarked on an exhilarating hike to Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Recording from the Black Mountain Campground in Western North Carolina. Julie shared fascinating historical insights from Peter Barr's book, Hiking North Carolina's Lookout Towers. She details the challenge and beauty of climbing 3,684 feet over 6 miles, making regular check-ins along the strenuous trail. Experience her journey through rhododendron tunnels, rocky switchbacks, and rich Appalachian landscapes, culminating at Dr. Elisha Mitchell's summit gravesite. This episode is dedicated to Peter Barr, a significant figure in North Carolina hiking, who recently underwent brain surgery. Strap in for a heartfelt and inspiring adventure on Mount Mitchell. 

Resources For Hiking Mt. Mitchell: 

Hiking North Carolina Lookout Towers: https://blairpub.com/shop/p/exploring-north-carolinas-lookout-towers  

NC High Peaks Association: https://nchighpeaks.org/ 

Carolina Mountain Club: https://carolinamountainclub.org/ 

Black Mountain Campground: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/273780 

Far Out App: https://faroutguides.com/ 

Go Fund Me For Peter Barr: https://www.gofundme.com/f/peter-barrs-recovery-from-brain-surgery 

Podcast Episode With Peter Barr: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/episode-70-peter-j-barr-whippersnap/ 

Mt. Mitchell Podcast From 9/19/2020: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/episode-41-jester-hikes-to-mt-mitchell/ 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

In this episode of the "Jester" Section Hiker podcast, host Julie "Jester" Gayheart shares her latest adventures, including a hike in Pennsylvania with Mary and Mike, a relaxing family visit in Ohio, and a southbound trek on the Appalachian Trail through the Shenandoah National Park. While hiking, Julie delves into the history of the park with stories from the book 'Shenandoah Secrets,' revealing fascinating tales about landmarks like Mary's Rock, Big Meadows, and Rockfish Gap. The episode concludes with Julie crossing the southern boundary of the park and reflecting on the Great American Outdoors Act. 

Resources Used In This Episode: 

Shenandoah Secrets

The Story Of The Parks Hidden Past

Written by: Carolyn and Jack Reeder

Published by: Potomac Appalachian Trail Club

PATC Website: https://www.patc.net/ 

Shenandoah NPS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shenandoahnps/ 

Far Out: https://faroutguides.com/ 

Stayed At The Following SNP Campgrounds:

https://www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm 

Matthews Arm - 7/26/24 - 7/28/24

Big Meadows - 7/29/24 - 7/31/24

Loft Mountain - 8/1/24 - 8/4/24

Jester's AT Southbound Itinerary Thru Shenandoah: 

7/26/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out): 

US 522 (1225)

Compton Gap (1230.6)

5.6 Miles

7/27/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Compton Gap (1230.6)

Elkwallow Wayside (1244.1)

13.5 Miles

7/28/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Elkwallow Wayside (1244.1)

Meadow Spring Trailhead (1255.2)

11.7 Miles

7/29/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Meadow Spring Trailhead (1255.2)

Rock Spring Cabin Parking (1267.4)

12.8 Miles

7/30/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Rock Spring Cabin Parking (1267.4)

Bearfence Mountain Hut (1278.3)

11 Miles

7/31/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Bearfence Mountain Hut (1278.3)

Hightop Parking Area (1288.6)

10.3 Miles

8/1/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Hightop Parking Area (1288.6)

Ivy Creek Overlook (1300.5)

11.9 Miles

8/2/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Ivy Creek Overlook (1300.5)

Blackrock Trailhead (1311.1)

10.8 Miles

8/3/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Blackrock Trailhead (1311.1)

Sawmill Run Overlook (1322.2)

11.3

8/4/24 - SNP SOBO (Far Out):

Sawmill Run Overlook (1322.2)

Rockfish Gap (1332.9)

10.5 Miles

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Join Julie "Jester" Gayheart for an early morning section hike on the Appalachian Trail from PA 309 to Bake Oven Knob, alongside hikers Mike and Mary. Jester recounts her injury that prevented her from completing this section in 2020 and shares stories of perseverance, camaraderie, and the beauty of nature. This episode highlights the challenges and rewards of hiking, the importance of community, and future hiking goals.

7/21/24 - Hiking Mileage (Far Out): 

PA 309 (1246.9)

Bake Oven Knob Parking (1251.8)

4.9 Miles

Watch The Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

Watch SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Join Julie "Jester" Gayheart in this episode as she hikes a section of the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut. Follow her journey from New York Route 22 to Hoyt Road, and later from Connecticut’s Bulls Bridge to Shaghticoke Road, Caleb’s Peak, St. John’s Ledges, and the Housatonic River. Jester shares her passion for hiking, recounts encounters with trail maintenance teams and fellow hikers, and reflects on personal milestones. 

7/16/24 - Day 1 (Far Out): 

NY Route 22 (1454.4)

Hoyt Road (1461.3)

6.9 Miles

7/17/24 - Day 2 (Far Out): 

Hoyt Road (1461.3)

Schaghticoke Road (1465.8)

4.4 Miles

7/18/24 - Day 3 (Far Out):

Schaghticoke Road (1465.8)

CT Route 341 (1473.3)

7.5 Miles

7/19/24 - Day 4 (Far Out):

CT Route 341 (1473.3)

Dawn Hill Road (1482.9)

9.3 Miles

7/20/24 - Day 5 (Far Out): 

Dawn Hill Road (1482.9)

West Cornwall Rd (1489.5)

6.6 Miles

46 of 46 Podcast Episode With Jester: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/169-summit-sessions-60-when-the-appalachian-trails-meets-the-adirondack-park-with-julie-jester-gayheart--60712120?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3yy7DtFoFhvh2oel3hibfbiJVaYpitgjVeedgOFvLGb--W2JDzwuM0l0g_aem_5GXjhOgxnJwqVPczt5Ra5Q 

Watch The Allegheny Trail (Trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec 

Watch SAFE AND FOUND: https://safe-and-found.com

Connect With Rolf Asphaug (Colorado Trail - Trail Angel): 

Email: [email protected]

Podcast With Rolf: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/152-section-hiker-q-a-with-rolf-asphaug/ 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Join host Julie "Jester" Gayheart as she shares her adventure in the Adirondacks. This episode covers a mix of hiking, being a tourist, and soaking in spectacular views and experiences from Lake Placid, New York - the heart of the High Peaks region. Learn about Jester's encounters with her Seek to Do More family, tourist attractions like the Olympic bobsled run and ski jumps, and top hiking trails from the Lake Placid 9'er. Jester also reveals local eateries and personal insights on the hiking challenges encountered. Don't miss the detailed exploration of the people, places, and peaks that made this trip unforgettable.

We arrived in the Adirondack Park on the evening of July 4, 2024 thru July 15, 2024. I highly recommend the Drapers Acres Campground! So AWESOME!

46 of 46 Podcast Episode With Jester: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/169-summit-sessions-60-when-the-appalachian-trails-meets-the-adirondack-park-with-julie-jester-gayheart--60712120?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3yy7DtFoFhvh2oel3hibfbiJVaYpitgjVeedgOFvLGb--W2JDzwuM0l0g_aem_5GXjhOgxnJwqVPczt5Ra5Q 

The Lake Placid 9'ers: https://lakeplacid9er.com/ 

Drapers Acres Campground: https://www.drapersacres.com/home 

Mt. Van Hoevenberg: https://mtvanhoevenberg.com/ 

Olympic Jumping Complex: https://olympicjumpingcomplex.com/  

Scenic Flight Around Lake Placid: https://www.lakeplacid.com/explore/getting-here 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com  

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Jester shares a detailed breakdown of the items in her ULA Photon pack, including clothing, footwear, hydration, and essential day hike equipment. Perfect for anyone gearing up for their own adventure, this comprehensive gear review reveals the practical choices that have supported her so far through 19 day hikes on the Appalachian Trail.

Filmed on The Appalachian Trail In New York On July 3, 2024. Depot Hill Rd - Far Out Mile Marker 1444.6.

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com  

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Jester continues section hiking in New York and starts this episode off by heading out Northbound from the Appalachian Market and ends by sharing with us her "Side Trail Adventure" for the next two weeks! 

6/28/24 - New York Day 5 (Far Out):

Appalachian Market (1415.1)

Dennytown Rd (1423.8)

8.7 Miles

6/30/24 - New York Day 6 (Far Out):

Dennytown Rd (1423.8)

NY Route 301 (1427.5)

3.7 Miles

7/1/24 - New York Day 7 (Far Out):

NY Route 301 (1427.5)

Long Hill Rd. (1432.1)

4.6 Miles

7/2/24 - New York Day 8 (Far Out):

Long Hill Rd. (1432.1)

NY Route 52 (1439.6)

7.5 Miles

7/3/24 - New York Day 9 (Far Out):

NY Route 52 (1439.6)

Rt. 55 (1446.9)

7.5 Miles

7/4/24 - New York Day 10 (Far Out): 

Rt. 55 (1446.9)

NY Route 22 (1454.4)

7.5 Miles

Western States 100: https://www.wser.org/ 

Hardrock 100: https://hardrock100.com/ 

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com  

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"

Jester is out this summer working on completing the Appalachian Trail again for a 2nd time as a section hiker. Jester starts clicking off miles in New York that includes the Lemon Squeezer, Bear Mountain, and finishing the episode off by crossing the Hudson River on that famous bridge! 

6/23/24 - New York Day 1 (Far Out): 

Arden Valley Rd. (1388.4)

Tiorati Circle Picnic Area (1393.7)

5.6 Miles 

6/24/24 - New York Day 2 (Far Out):

Tiorati Circle Picnic Area (1393.7)

Andrew Wayne Drive (1402.6)

8.9 Miles

6/25/24 - New York Day 3 (Far Out):

Andrew Wayne Drive (1402.6)

Bear Mountain Perkins Tower (1408.3)

5.7 Miles

6/26/24 - New York Day 4 (Far Out): 

Bear Mountain Perkins Tower (1408.3)

Appalachian Market (1415.1)

6.8 Miles

Connect With Jester:

Email: [email protected]

Jester's Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5wx7IWX7G0 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JulieGayheart 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jestersectionhiker/

Watch Safe and Found: https://safe-and-found.com  

Music By: Victor Lundberg "Top of The Morning"