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Overview This hike is within the borders of Hungry Mother State Park, a gem of a woodland park. It is a short distance, about 5 miles from I-81. An admission fee is required. There are campsites, cabins, a lodge, yurts, a restaurant, also boat and canoe rentals for use on Hungry Mother Lake. History A little background for the oddly named park, all the daughter could say when searchers found her was "hungry mother". As the story goes Molly Marley's settlement on the New River had been raided by marauding Indians. Her and her daughter escaped but were lost. Searchers found Molly's body at the base of the mountain named for her and her daughter alive a short distance away. Hike A loop trail over 5 miles goes around the lake and Molly's Knob trail branches off. You can park at this trail junction. The view from the top is reported to be superb, unfortunately on this day it was a cloud magnet. The trail is wide and straightforward with abundant rhododendron blooming and a lush hardwood forest. You gain a 1000 feet over the 2 mile ascent by taking Molly's Knob trail and then the Molly's knob vista trail. It is a wide track with some switchbacks, though short you can get a good workout in with a steady pace. I added a little distance by walking alongside the lake and Hungry Mother Creek. We stayed at lucky cabin #13. If you're driving I-81 and need a break you could do this and shortly be back on your way. It would be even better on a clear day. One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
