Holder Knob, Whiskey Still Trail, Carey Creek Trail, Boot Trail & Mountain Beaver Trail — Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017

I decided to try out Taylor Mountain this morning for something new-to-me and not too far away. Arrived at the parking lot around 7:15am, and there were only two other vehicles in the lot. We headed up toward Holder Knob, took the Whiskey Still trail to the Boot Trail to the Mt. Beaver Trail until we reached the bridge over Carey Creek. We turned around there to meander back, following our path until we reached Road A, then took the road back to the parking lot. Overall the trail is in great shape, with some portions a bit muddier than others. The gain isn't too bad at all - I would rate this as quite family friendly. The trail is used by horses, with a large portion of the parking lot dedicated to trailer parking, and there is definitely evidence of horses on the trail. ;-) We didn't see anyone on the trail today, though, and the rain was a mere drizzle. I think the forecast kept other hikers away, and I could see how this would be a very popular trail in the summer. Explore it now while it's quiet! Stats: 7.2 miles RT, 1400' cumulative gain