King's Chair Sunrise Hike

February 28th

Yesterday we went on a fun hike with the "Runner's of the Wild" group.  Five of our friends went and we decided to hike and not run.  Thanks to Zach the leader for getting the Oak Mountain State Park earlier than normal, so we could enjoy the views.  

So let's just say waking at 4 a.m.  on the weekend is not usually on the top of the list.  But, today was the most awesome experience.  We started the hike in the pitch black at 5:15 and got to King's Chair about 10 min. before the sunrise at 6:20.  What a magnificent reward!!!  Pictures DO NOT do it justice, because it truly was an amazing experience.  Maybe it's all the climbing and the pace we went that made it that much more rewarding.  Glad we went and even more awesome was that Ashley brought coffee for us to all enjoy while watching it.  :)

To do this same hike there are two ways from the North Trailhead that I would recommend.  When you park at the North Trailhead, cross over the main road that goes through the park and hit the red trail (this will be a red dirt trail that has rocks and ruts and will cross over a culvert that will have water in it from time to time) and go about .4 miles then take a left on the red/blue connector.  This will wind up the hill (steep at times) until you intersect with the blue trail.  Go right and the trail will flatten out a bit.  Be sure to check out the Shackleford Overlook and try not to be to tempted by the Eagles Nest trail (Eagles Nest is another trail with a great view and huge boulder.  The hike is strenuous, but worth it).  We did not have time for it today.  Continuing on the blue trail it will go down a bit and walk along a creek bed.  Don't get to used to flat.  It will start climbing again, but much shorter than the first climb.  Trail is well marked, but when you get to the top of the hill that has the rope to pull yourself up (not necessarily needed on a dry day) you will follow the trail left. Here again it's relatively flat and has a small pond at the top.  Just after the pond you will see your first overlook of the valley below.  Take in the view and then continue on about another tenth of a mile.  Then climb the rocks to the King's Chair. 

Another route (which we took coming back) is once you cross over from the parking lot, turn left on the blue trail just behind the trail map kiosk.  This trail will have some rolling hills and will eventually intersect with the red/blue connector as indicated above.

Lake in the valley below.