Winter is Dying: Testnatee Gap to Cowrock Mountain via the AT

Our adventures began on the Appalachian Trail at Testnatee Gap off Highway 348, a few miles northwest of Helen, Georgia. Gadget & I, along with our friends Paul, Alissa and their pup Cachi, got to see the last remnants of this harsh winter fading away into spring in the bare wilderness. We navigated through slushy snow in the parts of the trail covered in shadows, and watched each step for rocks covered in layers of ice. This 2.25 mile out-and-back hike is a good climb to the top of Cowrock Mountain any time of year, but the ice and snow certainly adds to the difficulty in winter.

Cowrock Level Up: Ice & Snow

Gadget smiles (?) for the camera. I love this beardo weirdo!

I'm not sure where the 'Cow' part of the name comes from, but there's no doubt about 'Rock'. The summit is one giant rock, which makes for a wonderful spot to rest, and of course CARB UP! You don't want to do all that hiking on anything less than a full stomach, do you? #HealthyAtEverySize

Amazing view from the Cowrock summit - not a cloud in the sky.

It was our buddies' first time on the Appalachian Trail, and they loved it! Cachi enjoyed stretching out his legs, too, and was a fun hiking partner for our Lily.

A quick "Where Are They Now?" update on Alissa & Paul: Since this hike, these lovebirds have gotten engaged! Congrats, guys.