This is a nice easy hike for Discovery Rangers and up. The trail is level and gravel covered. Total milage into the gap and back to the parking lot is about six miles, more than enough to do one of the five mile required hikes.
History of Rausch Gap
Camping Shelter at AT
The hike starts at the parking lot on Gold Mine Road (see map). Cross the road, watch traffic, to the trail head - you will be going West on the trail.
This is an old abandoned rail line that used to service the varioius towns along this trail. Rausche Gap is one of those Ghost towns.
Upon reaching Rausch Gap and you want to make it an overnight, one thenth of a mile further West, over the bridge, and to the right is a trail leading up to the Appalacian Trail. Take the trail up and (white marks on trees) when you get to a definite trail leading to the left (watch for sign) take it. This will lead you to the shelter and camping areas.
Warning
Eastern Dimondback
Beware of snakes - Snakes in this area can be poisonous - Eastern Diamondback, Timberrattler, and copperheads are nearby - When walking off the trail be careful where you step and put your hands. If you visit the ruins, snakes like to hide under and around the rocks. If the day was chilly or very wet, the snakes like to come out and sun themselves on top of flat rocks and on the roadway - This beautiful creature was on the roadway during this years NTT. Abotut 51/2 footer we guess.
Poison Ivy - be careful
DO NOT- Drink the water without treating it first. Either carry your water in or take filtration and anti-bacteria chemicals with. The water looks nice but it contains many harmful parasites that will make your life miserable for a week or two. There is one little nasty that will stay with you for life. Soooo, don't take a chance, carry it in or treat it.
Interstate 81 North - Exit at Lebanon exit to Fisher Ave. at top of ramp make left. Go to light and turn left again. This is route 72 North. Stay on 72 North and it becomes RT 443 stay straight do not make left turn onto 443 West. Look for Goldmine Rd on left. Turn left onto Goldmine Rd. Follow Goldmine several miles to trail head on left. Parking on right.
