This hike is about 2.8 miles in length and is “moderate” in difficulty.There is an elevation change of 400 feet. You will need to bring a light lunch/snack, water, insect repellant and a hiking stick or pole. This is a very interesting hike over Blakely Mountain with many of the trees and flowers we have already seen plus some new ones, e.g. Rusty Blackhaw, French-Mulberry, Post Oak, Blackjack Oak, Trillium, and Bird’s Foot Violet. The second half of the hike goes thru an old growth forest that is beautiful!
Directions to Avery Recreation Area: From Hot Springs, take Hwy 270 West to the junction with the Mt. Pine Rd. Follow the Mt. Pine Rd approximately 7 miles to Blakely Mountain Dam. Continue in front of the dam on Blakely Dam Rd. A short distance after passing the dam, you will turn left at the sign to Avery Park. Take the next left to the small pavilion.