Above: The AT hikers log that is kept at the Silers Bald Shelter. All of the shelters along the Appalachian Trail has these logs, where through-hikers and daytrippers enter their thoughts, rants, and impressions of life on the trail. It's always fun to take the time to read through the comments in the log - love it or hate it, it's a great window into the thoughts of those who share the trail.

Below: The intersection of the Appalachian Trail and the Welch Ridge trail near Silers Bald. The path on the left (south) side leads down Welch Ridge to intersections with the Hazel Creek trail, the Jonas Creek trail, the Bear Creek trail, the Cold Spring Gap trail, and the old High Rocks backcountry ranger's cabin. The Appalachian Trail, on the right, climbs steeply to the top of Silers Bald before dropping back down the western side of the Bald to the trail shelter. At one time, Silers Bald was part of an extensive open (bald) stretch of ridgeline that ran for miles along the main crest of the Great Smoky Mountains. Each spring, herders would drive their sheep and cattle to the high country to graze on the rich grass of the balds. Most are fading away now, as the forest reclaims the heights. The National Park Service maintains a few of the balds as open areas though, most notably at Gregory Bald above Cades Cove.