Pump Gap Loop via Appalachian Trail

It was wooded up hill hike that leads to Lovers Leap. This is a somewhat hard hike, according to the quote. The camp ground to your right on the east side is the orange blazes. It's a gradual uphill incline in the first mile. You can walk to the AT if you turn right or head west. It is a nice, flat section with a ridgeline. You can see the French Broad River at the time of the year. There is a nice view above Hot Springs just before heading downhill on the AT. It is a good idea to stay on the AT until the Lovers Leap Trail intersects it. It's easiest to take this final 1.5 mile straight down hill before the Silver mine service road. Go left on silver mine to cars.