North & South Percy
August 15, 2009
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Two beautiful peaks, well worth the drive. Amy (Getaway girl) joined us as we ventured a bit further out of our usual Twin Mtn neighborhood. The trail up North is pretty steady with a fair amount of elevation gain. It goes through nicely wooded sections, and further on heads up some rock slabs that could be slick in wet conditions. These areas offer nice views behind you toward the south.
The north peak itself is mainly rock slabs, with scattered trees/brush. No real scrambles though (like Baldfaces). The views are stunning along the final approach and the top. The blueberries are abundant, thus the reason for a relatively long hike on short mileage. We see mtn cranberries and the faded remains from mtn laurel bushes – a couple weeks earlier would have been lovely, …but fewer blueberries.
We back tracked down the trail and took the side spur to the South Peak. What a difference in this short section. The approach to South is up its north facing side. Combined with all the rain from earlier this summer, the moss and vegetation on this section was beyond lush. The trail is a bit steeper here, yet it is still a quick jaunt to the peak, maybe 45-60 minn. The open area on the peak is much smaller, yet there are spots to sit and enjoy the views.
We headed back to the trail between the two peaks, and decide to descend around the backside of North Peak. This is a bit longer trail, but less steep. Again, a very nicely wooded trail – easy to follow with a casual grade. We’ll end up on the road about 1.5 miles from the car.
The vote – definitely put this on the list to repeat. (Especially since there are about 4-5 ice cream shops conveniently located between trailhead and our campground). We also think it could be a lovely winter hike, although the winter road closure would require an xc ski. You wouldn’t want to do it in high winds, but it would be amazing on a clear winter day.
Directions to Trailhead
From Twin Mountain, follow Route 3 North unto Groveton and take a right onto Route 110 East.
Follow Route 110 fir 2.6 miles and take a left onto Emerson Road.
Follow this road for 2.2 miles until the road makes a sharp right-hand turn.
At this point, turn left onto Nash Stream Road and follow it for 2.7 miles to a small, signed parking area on the right.
The Percy Peaks Trailhead is 50 yards farther up, on the right, and is signed.
The Percy Loop Trailhead is 1.2 miles beyond the Percy Peaks Trailhead, on the right, and is signed. Parking is on the left next to a driveway to a camp. Be sure not to block the driveway.
Length of Hike:
5:20 hours
6.25 miles
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