MCDONALD RIDGE (VIA WAYAH GAP)

This hike to McDonald Ridge starts at Wayah Gap and climbs northbound on the Appalachian Trail over 2 miles and 1000+ feet to Wine Spring Bald. Here there is a spring to the left of the A.T., and campsites located on both sides of the trail. Wine Spring Bald is also an intersection point for the yellow blazed Bartram Trail which climbs McDonald Ridge to meet the Appalachian Trail at this point. At 5400 feet, the “Bald” is the highest point on the entire Bartram Trail. Don’t expect spectacular views from Wine Spring Bald, however, since it has been overtaken by trees in recent years. But you can venture 0.5 miles down the Bartram Trail for views from a field at McDonald Ridge.