Tibbet Knob

Across the road from Wolf Gap Campground and Recreation Area parking (the location of another favorite hike, Big Schloss) is a beautiful, isolated, and low mileage hike. Tibbet Knob is a three mile out and back hike that you can squeeze into your busy day or take your time with.

Great North Mountain is home to some of the most beautiful ridgeline and trail miles I’ve ever seen. No need to wait for the overlook to be completely awestruck. The moss is always the greenest of green, and the sun hits the ridge just perfectly nearly any time of day and during any season. When the light from the sunset touches these trails they are absolutely enchanting. Time stops and you feel a sense of completeness.

The trail starts out relatively gradual, making its way through a few primitive campsites. There’s picnic tables and fire rings, just like the ones across the street, but this is a bit more primitive and isolated. And therefore of course, in my opinion, far more desirable.

After a mild start, you begin to climb for the next half mile or so. Our toddler walked for the first mile without any real difficulty if that tells you anything about the incline. There are a few overlooks and outcroppings to the left that are worth stopping for.

At one point you’ll head downhill for a short time through some dense forest trees and foliage. Then head uphill again.

The uphill incline this time is a bit more strenuous. This is where, for the sake of time, we decided to start carrying the toddler. This steep incline (not too bad, about 18% average) only lasts about .6 miles, then you’ll hit some very mild rock scrambles.

After two sections of notable rock scrambles, you’ll arrive at a large campsite with a stone fire ring. The overlook and summit are straight ahead, accessible from multiple points around the campsite.