Just got back from a great trip up Rocky Top (6/18/17). Tons of wildflowers of all different colors, which we saw on the drive up and also the hike to the top, all along the way. Parking area had snow, and about halfway up there was some on the trail. It became impassable about a quarter of the way to the top, so we decided to scramble/bushwhack the rest.
First really sunny day here in the valley and it was super clear. 360 degree view once we got to the top. We could see the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack, and a couple others, as well as down into the valley on all sides. Totally worth it.
The scramble back down was quite a bit sketchier. We were able to find the trail from the backside of the top and decided to follow it down, but then when it swung around back to the snow it got super slippery. Almost slid down the snow... and the hill... and the mountain... but was stopped by a tree and some quick thinking. Took half an hour to go 100 yards. Still worth it? Umm...Yep.
So this year it's a toss up whether to wait until the snow melts (and miss the wild flowers), or take your chances getting to the top. Or stop short of the top and just enjoy the flowers and almost 360 views - because it's still pretty darn impressive!
Rocky Top hike wildflowers and views, June 2017
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- CampinCarl
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- Joined: June 17th, 2011, 7:41 am
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Re: Rocky Top hike wildflowers and views, June 2017
Thanks for the report, I love this quick little hike. That sounds like a perfect hike for a warm sunny day, flowers, views, and the the opportunity to dunk your head in the snow at the end! Crazy to think there's still snow up there.