Still part of the north to south Appalachian Trail, this portion of America’s first trail involves an overall descend of 50 feet. This trail still traverses the eastern portion of the Appalachian Mountains. The elevation of Wood Gap is at 3,160 feet while Neels Gap is at 3,109 feet. In between these two Gaps, you will encounter one of the busiest intersections of this traverse. This then starts with an ascent to Big Cedar that eventually joins a descent to Dockery Lake Trail at Miller Gap. Take a quick stop in this area where the backdrop of Blood Mountain Scenic offers you a magnificent picture of the place.

After Miller Gap, make a climb to Baker Mountain to which a path joins Jarrard Gap. This is where it also intersects with the Appalachian Trail. Pace 2 miles forward into Slaughter Gap where another intersection places you at the Slaughter Creek Trail and Lake Winfield Scott. The name came from a battle that occurred here during the migration of Cherokee to this area. Blood Mountain also derived its name to this event. An archeological expedition in 1951 discovered some evidence of Cherokee and Creek Indians’ remnants within the vicinity.

From this, move forward right where you will see a red wooden sign that directs you to make an ascent towards some rock steps of Blood Mountain, which checks at an elevation of 4,461 feet. Abruptly ending from the trail’s rock steps, you will then find your way to a winding path and some more ascents. From here, you will meet some day hikers from Lake Winfield Scott passing by this busy section. At the right side, seven campsites can be seen where Duncan Ridge Trail also ends nearby. This is also a wonderful stop for those who just want to take a rest or do an overnight camping.

Still off to continue the trail and passing by some stunted and wind-swept trees, the Blood Mountain’s ascent leads you to its summit where restrooms, an inn, and a restaurant are found. This is the stone cottage of Walasi-Yi Center which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1930.

From this hiker’s stop, expect the steepest descent into Neels Gap. The trail then intersects with Blood Mountain Spur Trail about 1.5 miles down to Highway 19/129. This marks the end of the trek where it is just across the street from Mountain Crossings at Walasi-yi in Neels Gap.