Pond Mountain Campsite s

[Downhill64]

Hello Al,

Can some tell me if there is a campsite between Laural Falls and Pond Flats campsite? I'm taking a new backpacker for their first over night trip. We are going from Dennis Cove to Watagua Lake and I would like each day to be a little more balanced mileage wise. There will be 1 hammock and 1 tent.

Thanks for the info,
Downhill64

[Seatbelt]

Going north from the falls, you could turn right and go a short ways up to the shelter for the night, then climb the mountain the next day.

[Slo-go'en]

The Laurel forks shelter is not far from Dennis cove, so that could be too short a day unless you have a late start. Then there is no possible place to camp until you get to the top of Pond flats as you first hike through a gorge and then climb very steeply (nearly 2000 feet in 2 miles!) up to Pond Flats. This may not be the best section for a first overnight hike.

[Tennessee Viking]

There is the shelter on the Hi Water blue blaze. Then there a number of camping spots on the Hampton Blue Blaze.

Last time I walked up to Pond Flats from the Gorge, I was helping build the relos around 2010-2011.

I would say there are some small spots. But not much as its an almost constant climb and switchbacks.

[Tennessee Viking]

There is the shelter on the Hi Water blue blaze. Then there a number of camping spots on the Hampton Blue Blaze.<br><br>Last time I walked up to Pond Flats from the Gorge, I was helping build the relos around 2010-2011. <br><br>I would say there are some small spots. But not much as its an almost constant climb and switchbacks. I think there is a small gap above the switchbacks that will suit you.<br>

[Downhill64]

Thanks everyone, for the advice. I was hoping to tackle only half of Pond Mtn. I guess I'll look for another section of about 8-9 miles.