Kevin, once you reach the plateau you are mostly out of the burn area, so you are back in among trees that are large enough to support a hammock. Keep your eyes peeled along the cliff side for scattered primitive campsites. There are a few convenient places that also happen to have excellent views of the gorge.

I’m okay with the heights if the trail is wide enough, but I’d hate to be so worried about missteps to be able to enjoy it. Perhaps we’ll stick to Tablerock instead this time around. From what I’ve read, that’s a relatively easy hike. I’m so looking forward to exploring this area.

Hello Tish. I think the age of your kids is germane to the consideration of this hike. There definitely are sheer cliffs that fall a long way. I wouldn’t think it advisable to bring kids younger than about 8 years of age or so. You know your own kids best, their capabilities and their comprehension of potential danger.

I’m sure you remember the overlooks on Looking Glass Rock. They drop a long way, but they aren’t quite as sheer. They’re more rounded. Along the Shortoff Trail above Lake James the cliff edges are sheer. There is little room for error. Mistakes would be fatal.

I don’t want to scare you away from an absolutely delightful hike, but I do want to be realistic. If your young ones need to age a little more, save this beautiful hike for a few years down the road. Linville Gorge will be there. It always will be.

No swift kicks in the rear are necessary; you stopped at the perfect place!  🙂 

By the way, we just got back from some excellent hiking/camping terrain in the Red River Gorge in Kentucky; you might head out that way sometime.

Hi David, Indeed it was cool. It was an enjoyable hike from start to finish.

Karl