Normally, I’m a plan-it kind of guy, but drastic times call for drastic measures. We were already in the park and committed. So with our paper (*gasp* so low-tech) map taken from the information booth, the figure of 1.8 miles Google Maps said we needed to walk on the ATV route, and our Fitbits tracking distance, we strapped on the tripod & backpack of gear and set out to conquer the trail.

Following the ATV route meant the terrain was fairly easy even if the elevation change was not. After traveling for 45 minutes fate & Google came through for us — we hit the Appalachian Trail and located the path for Pole Steeple with 1.76 miles registering on our Fitbits. From this point it was only another three quarters of a mile to the top the the ridge a brisk ten minute walk.