HIKE CANCELLED – NO LEADER AVAILABLE Nov. 26 Carolina Mountain Club HALF DAY No. H0604-344 Dec. 3 P.O. Box 68 Pulliam Creek in the Asheville, NC 28802 FOURTH QUARTER 2006 Green River Game Lands 12:30 PM* Quarterly News Bulletin Hike 6.5, Drive 60, 1000 ft. ascent, Return Service Requested Rated B-B and Hike Schedule Nonmembers call leader, Becky Elston, 828-749-1886, [email protected] *Note early start time. This pretty in-and- P.O. Box 68, Asheville, NC 28802 • www.carolinamtnclub.org • e-mail: [email protected] out hike goes along Pulliam Creek for part of the way. We may see kayakers on the Green River. Join leader for dinner at Cracker THE PRESIDENT’S Barrel after the hike. *Meet at Westgate CMC needs your help in the at 12:30 PM to form carpools and meet CORNER hike leader at NW corner of parking lot of Cracker Barrel off I-26, Exit 53, at 1 PM. important work of its committees M a n y CMC mem- HALF-DAY No. H0604-102 Dec. 10 *Note early start time. After a gradual Pen parking lot at 2:00 PM (call leader Much of the organizational work that help in any of these activities, please contact bers prob- Coontree Loop 1:00 PM* climb on the Appalachian , we will be if not familiar with second meeting place). keeps CMC running is carried out by its the Committee Chair. ably don’t Hike 3.7, Drive 70, Elevation gain 1200 ft. rewarded with an outstanding view of the This is a nice winter hike, low elevation and committees. Without these committees we The Hiking Committee is responsible for realize that ascent, Rated C-B Hot Springs area from the fire tower. close to Asheville. We’ll cross the S. Mills would not be able to offer the wide range developing CMC’s hiking schedule, for train- the Club has Nonmembers, call leader, Gerry McNabb, River footbridge, then do a loop on the sce- of activities that we do. Currently five of ing and recognizing hike leaders, and for bylaws that 828-274-0057, [email protected] HIKE CANCELLED – nic Pounding Mill and Mullinax . our committees - Hiking, Conservation, other activities necessary to ensure that CMC set the rules P400 *Note early start time. This hike is a NO LEADER AVAILABLE Dec. 24 Education, Challenge Programs, and has a full and enjoyable hiking program. for how the loop along both sides of a lovely creek, with HALF-DAY NO. H0701-320 Jan. 7 Awards - need new members. If you can Committee Chair: Bruce Bente (828-692- Council is views along Coontree Mtn. ridge on top. HALF-DAY NO. H0604-534 Dec. 31 Warren Wilson College Ramble 1:30 PM Some steep areas. Second meeting place: Turkey Pen, Pounding Mill, Hike 5.5, Drive 20, Rated C-C 0116). elected and operates. You can find Ranger Station on US 276 at 1:40 PM. Mullinax loop 1:30 PM* Nonmembers, call leaders, Barry Wilderness first aid Ruth Hartzler’s article on page 7 describes the bylaws on the CMC website, Hike 5.5, Drive 55, 900 ft. ascent, Rated C-C and Heather Fletcher, 828-299-4776, the activities of the Conservation Committee. www.carolinamtnclub.org, under HALF DAY NO. H0604-325 Dec. 17 Nonmembers, call leader, Bruce Bente, 828- [email protected] course offered Committee Chair: Ruth Hartzler (828-251- "Club." Tanyard Gap to Rich Mountain 1:00 PM* 692-0116, [email protected] This pleasant in-and-out walk is along the The CMC is offering a Wilderness 0886). Last year we completely rewrote Hike 5, Drive 64, 1365 ft. ascent, Rated C-B P400 *Meet at Westgate at 1:30 PM to Swannanoa River and through wooded land First Aid Course on Nov. 18 and 19 at The Education Committee provides train- the bylaws. The result has been an Nonmembers, call leader, Tom Sanders, 828- form carpools, and meet leader at Turkey of the Warren Wilson College campus, on Warren Wilson College. This 16-hour ing programs for CMC members, such as the improvement in the way the Club 252-6327, [email protected] the River and Dam Pasture Trails. course will be taught by Landmark Wilderness First Aid course described on this operates. The biggest change is that Learning. The CMC is funding some page and the beginning map reading course we now have voices on the Council Further of the cost for each person which described on page 2. It is supposed to have for the Club’s education, hiking, and MOUNTAINEERING INFORMATION: Consult the trip Club hikes are expected to join the Carolina Mountain includes a 2-year certification. The membership from both the Club’s trail main- trail maintenance functions. This leader for additional information regarding a par- information is available at Club. All members are encouraged to participate in participant must be a CMC member. ticular hike. Hikes may be cancelled due to adverse www.carolinamtnclub.org one of the Club's many trail maintenance efforts. tenance and hiking activities. At this time we has worked well and we want to To register, send a check for $75 weather or dangerous road and trail conditions. Please about regulations Contact a Club officer for details. need representatives from both. Committee add Councilors for conservation and call hike leader if weather conditions are questionable. made out to CMC, including your Chair: Dave Wetmore (828-884-7296). membership. However, we got car- CAROLINA MOUNTAIN CLUB OFFICERS Visitors are cordially welcome but should select trips within address, home phone number and The Challenge Programs Committee is ried away last year and established Lenny Bernstein–236-0192, President their endurance. When reservations are required as listed in the hike sched- e-mail address, also a business-size responsible for the design and operation of too many committees. We now real- Becky Smucker–298-5013, Vice President ule, the leader must be called to reserve a space. Hikers will carpool from the self-addressed stamped envelope to: Dave Wetmore–884-7296, Secretary the Club’s Challenge Programs: the SB6K, ize that four of those committees meeting places to trailheads and back. Passengers are expected to contribute Carroll Koepplinger–667-0723, Treasurer Marlene Santa Maria, 49 Apple Tree P400, and WNC Loop. It also provides advice are not needed and can be com- 10 cents per mile towards the driver's operating expenses. Gerry McNabb–274-0057, Immediate Past President Way, Asheville, NC 28805. If there to individuals trying to complete these chal- bined with other committees. And CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT, ETC.: Footwear comes first. Never start a moun- Council Members: Chip Miller–654-9331, Barth Brooker–299-0298, are any questions, call 299-9095 or lenges. Committee Chair: Don Gardner (828- we didn’t think of all the contingen- tain trip in brand new footwear. Hiking boots are recommended. Clothing of Ruth Hartzler–251-0886, Piet Bodenhorst–298-8371, Don Gardner–754-4067, [email protected]. 754-4067). cies that could arise in our procedure any substantial type will do. Carry a sweater, even in summer, and some kind Bruce Bente–692-0116, Marlene Santa Maria–299-9095. for picking new officers and need to of rain wear. THE : The Carolina Mountain Club is a member make some adjustments. Equipment for all-day trips should be a lunch, plenty of water, first aid kit, of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, PO. Box 807, Harpers Ferry, These changes are described cell phone if available and personal medication including allergy medication. MARK YOUR CALENDARS West Virginia 25245. Telephone (304) 535-6331. in the insert on proposed amend- CLUB TRIP REGULATIONS: Both members and visitors are expected to abide Annual Meeting and Dinner Oct. 27 in Hendersonville ments to our bylaws. Please take RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY: Each CMC member, guest or non-member absolutely by club regulations and by instructions of the leader. Visitors should hiker agrees to accept personal responsibility for his or her safety and the CMC’s annual dinner and meeting Meeting at 8:00 p.m. The cost of the dinner a few minutes to read through make themselves known to the leader on arrival at assembly place announced safety of minors accompanying such persons. The Club cannot ensure the will be held on Friday, October 27 at will be $23 per person attending. Beer and them. If you have any questions, for the trip. No one is to start ahead of the leader without definite permission, safety of any participant on hikes. In participating in Club hikes, each such the Chariot in Hendersonville. Dale wine will be sold for three dollars a glass or phone (828-236-0192) or e-mail me or lag unreasonably far behind the group. person agrees to hold harmless and free from blame the hike leaders, and the Ditmanson, the Superintendent of the bottle. See the insert to sign up for the dinner ([email protected]). Please MEMBERSHIP: Everyone is eligible for Club membership by completing CMC, its officers and members, for any accident, injury or illness which might National Park, and renew your membership for 2007. come to the Annual Meeting and cast a Membership Application Form and paying dues. Annual dues are $20 for be sustained from participating in hikes or other Club activities. will be the guest speaker. It will start with Another date worthy of mention is the your vote on these proposals. They individuals and $30 for families, and should be sent to the Carolina Mountain Editor: Stuart English–883-2447, [email protected] a Social Hour at 6:00 p.m., followed by CMC Spring Barbeque at the NC Arboretum, can’t go into effect until the member- Club, P.O. Box 68, Asheville, NC 28802. Frequent non-member participants in Deadline next issue: Nov. 15 Dinner at 7:00 p.m., and the Speaker and which will be April 21, 2007. ship approves them. 8 1

survey was measuring from Mt. Mitchell Trail Profiles: Walt Weber down to Black Mountain Campground Jack Fitzgerald new with Bob Johnson in a rainstorm. I dis- representative on AT Rusty Breeding completes AT Many CMC members own the book and an altimeter in the late 1980s for covered that my tape recorder had stopped Trail Profiles: The Mountains to Sea the purpose of determining accumula- recording and we had lost about 1500 trail guidebook committee One of our members, Rusty Breeding, Nancy completed the trail in 1999. Trail. Those that do not should consider tive elevation ascent and descent and feet of data. Fortunately I had a “Write in recently completed the Appalachian Trail “I can truthfully say that I enjoyed CMC maintains 92.6 miles of the buying a copy (available by sending $5 to percent of grade for our hikes as we had the Rain” notebook and we continued on after years of section hiking. We contact- the whole thing; even getting wet Appalachian Trail. Along with this ed Rusty and she shared some thoughts wasn’t all that bad. Finding all the CMC, P.O. Box 68, Asheville, NC 28802). been using with me calling out the It has a wealth of information about our only net ele- numbers and Bob writing responsibility, the club also updates the with us. back road trail crossings was an Trail Guide Book when necessary. Lou “Yes, I did finish section-hiking the adventure in itself. Perhaps the most club, the building of the Mountains to the vation change. them down. We returned Sea Trail, as well as an easy to under- From the data later to pick up the miss- Blodgett performed this function for AT on August 3rd – in the New York heat fun was meeting all the other hikers stand profile map of the trail as it follows gathered dur- ing 1500’ and also the many years. Long-time club member wave. with the same dream.” the Blue Ridge Parkway. Recently we ing these sur- Higgins Bald re-route of Jack Fitzgerald recently took over this “I would like to thank all the people We also congratulate Joanne Tulip interviewed the man who wrote the book veys I started the MST. position. We talked to Jack about his who helped make the accomplishment and Stuart Tauber for completing the and did a lot of the work on the trail. preparing trail In 2005, I oiled up the new duties. possible: All the CMC hike leaders who Benton MacKaye Trail this year. To I can only guess, but I have been a profiles, which wheel and as part of a “Lou just gave me the ‘wheel’ last led hikes on the AT in those who judge individuals by age member of CMC since around 1992, are quite joint CMC/Park Service week. This is used to get the exact mea- and ; Anita Baker and Amy or gender, we have one thing to say. about the time that I started working with similar to the GPS undertaking I have surement of any new section of the AT Treverton who let me tag along from Join our club! the Dick Roberts Monday work crew. Track Charts profiled our new section that we might build as a relocation … Wesser to Fontana in They were constructing the Pisgah Ledge with which I of the trail from Balsam I will be working with a man from the 1991 – the first entry section of the MTS at that time (the MST was familiar Gap (South) to Beech Tennessee Eastman Club, Collins Chew. in my data book; Emily was then known as the MTS). during my 33 Gap (NC Route 215), As I understand it so far, I will be respon- Terrell who took me I started measuring hikes with a wheel years with a 32.7 more miles, and have sible to report to the ATC any changes in through the Smokies railroad. now GPS’d all of our the AT itself, and also any changes to in 1996; especially to I started MST to Black Mountain nearby facilities that hikers might use, Nancy Seymour Walter Submit nominations measuring the Walt Weber with his wheel. Campground. Once com- such as hostels, campgrounds, resupply who invited me to hike stores, shuttle services, etc. Put your thinking cap on and come Pisgah Ledge section in 1994 during pleted, the 14 miles from Heintooga Road with her and Margaret “The guide books this information up with some names for the club to con- its construction period and after it was to Balsam Gap will also be measured and Suits in 1997, thus mak- goes into are published by the ATC sider for its two annual awards. See forms completed in 1996 I continued on north profiled. Who knows, we may end up with ing me realize that doing every 4-5 years. Since there was a new enclosed. You can also send in your “picks” on the Shut-in Section and completed another Trail Profiles book for publication the whole thing might be one put out for our section just last year, via email to backpacker54nc@bellsouth. the entire survey in 1999. During 1997 by CMC, complete with routing neatly possible. Thanks also to I will not need to provide this info for net. Deadline is October 15. and 1998 I started researching the origin laid out on topo fragments. Joanne Tulip who contin- some time.” Rusty Breeding crosses a stile in Virginia. Also remember you have only until of the trails occupied by the MST and I have been blessed with the assistance ued to hike with me after September 30 to write a slogan for CMC began preparing the Trail Profiles book of many, many CMC members and non- and win a $100 Diamond Brand gift cer- for the CMC. Through the energies of members through the years measuring tificate! Send you the email address above Howard MacDonald, the Club was able all of the sections of our trail and I salute Conservation Committee addresses hiking, forest issues or mail to CMC, P.O. Box 68, Asheville, to bring it to publication in 1999. them for all of their efforts. By Ruth Hartzler the North Shore Road in the Great Smoky management issues as related to hik- NC 28802, Att: Chip Miller. The most memorable event during this – W. W. Weber, Jr. The Conservation Committee’s char- Mountains National Park. The Club oppos- ing, and looking at long term issues. ter is to inform Club members of issues es block sales of Forest Service Land to We network with regional conservation that may affect the hiking experience, fund the extension of the Secure Rural organizations that are actively working Council creates communications committee encourage Club members to voice their Schools & Community Self-Determination to protect our hiking environment. opinions on some of the more important Act. Also, CMC opposes construction of The Conservation Committee has Beginning map reading By Gerry McNabb from which new members come. In addi- issues, and recommend key issues to the the proposed Interstate 3. lively discussions on these issues, and Earlier this year a new committee tion, we speak to our working partners in Are you one of those people, (like Council. When approved by Council, The Conservation Committee is current- what CMC can do. We need to know was formed to coordinate the communi- maintenance and environmental areas. It me), who just fall in line on a hike the Committee communicates Club ly learning more about Forest Service tim- what the club membership thinks is cations efforts of the club to its various would appear that publication graphics and never know where they really positions publicly. ber sales. We sponsored a CMC Wednesday important. So, join us at our monthly constituents. Lenny asked me if I would also falls under its aegis. Earlier in the are? On October 21st, the CMC will The Club has publicly supported hike up to observe the meetings on the third Thursday of each chair it and I agreed. Our most impor- year the committee helped the E-News offer its third beginning map reading three issues. CMC supports the mon- area of a proposed timber sale in the area month. Contact Ruth Hartzler (828-251- tant target is the membership itself. That come up with the masthead in use today. course. The course begins with about etary settlement/no road alternative to of Case Camp Ridge. We continue to moni- 0886 or [email protected]) for time “public” is being well served by the E- Most recently the committee helped two hours of presentation and ends tor the two national and place, or contact a committee mem- News and Let’s Go. Though edited with establish a policy for dealing with surveys with four hours of field work. We will parks in our area, ber to voice your opinion. different styles, both publications are the club might come up with to discover show you some techniques you can GSMNP and BRP, We also need new committee mem- designed to inform members about the member preferences. Our website has NEXT CMC COUNCIL MEETING use to stay found and to know when When: October 4, 2006 by participating in bers to learn about and research issues, news, activities, policies, and plans of recently added the capability of includ- you’re in danger of getting lost. To Where: Lenny Bernstein's house, 488 Kimberly Avenue the Great Smoky attend government agency and conser- the club. I think they are both doing a ing interactive survey questions to which sign up for the course, contact Dave Time: 6:30 PM (please note time change) Mountains Coalition vation meetings, or simply voice your great job: one with the immediacy of the members can respond. Surveys now pro- Wetmore at [email protected] or Info: Call Lenny at 828-236-0192 for directions. All CMC and the North Shore opinion. Our current members are Danny internet, and the other with the lasting vide a valuable tool that can help the club 884-7296. Pre-registration is required, members are welcome to attend. Please let him know if Road Coalition.We Bernstein, Rachel Doughty, Chip Miller, qualities of a printed publication. establish plans and programs to meet and there is a class limit of 10. you plan to attend. are discussing forest Becky Smucker, and Ruth Hartzler. Another target is the general public, members’ wishes. 2 7 ALL DAY NO. A0604-394 Dec. 10 828-298-9988, [email protected] Waterville Exit and continue a short distance Pilot Truck Stop at exit 24 off I-40 at 8:30 Cataloochee and *Note early start time. Although the dis- HIKE SCHEDULE Dogs to our trailhead in the Big Creek area. This AM. Topo: Lemon Gap. Little Cataloochee 8:00 AM are not allowed tance on this portion of the Mountains-to-Sea Fourth Quarter 2006 fantastic hike takes us up the AT which Hike 8, Drive 95, 2350 ft. ascent, on CMC hikes Trail is not long, this hike provides a good will take us to Mt. Cammerer, featuring the WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-438 Nov 8 Rated B-AA workout, with 400 feet ascending and 700 Hike Ratings historic stone fire tower built according to Rich Mtn., Round Top Dave Wetmore, 828-884-7296, descending, with great views midway. Short First Letter Second Letter the “Yosemite model” in the 1930s: a CCC Ridge Trail, Lover’s Leap 8:00 AM [email protected] car shuttle. *Only meeting place: Folk Art Distance Elevation Gain project. We will enjoy a lunch break on top Hike 9.5, Drive 70, Rated A-B and along the Green River, with a late lunch 900M Walk the “Dug Road,” originally built Center lower parking lot. AA: Over 12 miles AA: Over 2,000 ft. and take in the expansive autumn views. Don Walton, 828-654-9904, at the big rocks on the Green River, and then in the 1850s. See an unrestored farm site, a A: 9-12 miles A: 1,500-2,000 ft. The ascent is rather long, but the pace will [email protected] hike up and out on the Pulliam Creek trail. restored log cabin, the old apple house, an HALF-DAY NO. H0604-062 Oct. 29 B: 6-9 miles B: 1,000-1,500 ft. be moderate. Return on same trails. Second From Tanyard Gap we will go north on the Short car shuttle. Topo: Cliffield Mtn.; also old church and tourists looking for elk. The Daniel Ridge Loop Trail 1:00 PM* C: Under 6 miles C: Under 1,000 ft. meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop at exit 24 AT to the beautiful Rich Mountain views, Map of the Green River Gamelands Trails Dug Road is a mostly open easy 2.7 mile Drive 70, Hike 4, 800 ft. ascent, Rated C-C off I-40 at 8:30 AM. Topo: Waterville; also then descend to Hot Springs via Round Top bushwhack on an abandoned trail. The rest of Nonmembers call leader, Pat Elias, 828-687- Also in the hike descriptions, the terms easy, Nat’l. Geo. GSMNP map Ridge Trail, and culminate the day with a the trip is on maintained trails. Topo: Cove HALF-DAY SUNDAY 1651; [email protected] moderate or strenuous reflect the overall trail short climb to Lover’s Leap, finishing on the Creek Gap; also Nat’l. Geo. map of GSMNP HIKES P400 *Note early start time. After scram- conditions, physical challenge and other fac- WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-539 Oct 18 AT in Hot Springs. Newcomers are welcome, but nonmembers bling across the Davidson River on stones tors influencing hike difficulty. If you have Downhill to Pilot Mtn. 8:00 AM ALL DAY NO. A0604-254 Dec. 17 MUST call the hike leader before the hike to because of the washout of the bridge in questions or if the weather on the day of the Hike 6, Drive 88, 2200 ft. ascent, WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-408 Nov 15 Green Knob via Snooks Nose 8:00 AM determine the requirements. Half-day hikes Hurricane Ivan, the trail climbs gradually hike is questionable, contact the leader. Rated B-AA Wolf Ford Loop Hike 8:00 AM* Hike 11, Drive 65, 3400 ft. ascent, submitted by Paula Robbins, 828-281-3253, beside a lovely stream with small waterfalls. Dave Wetmore, 828-884-7297, Hike 9, Drive 80, 1200 ft. ascent, Rated B-B Rated A-AA+ [email protected]. Driving distance is A larger waterfall is seen just before the end CHALLENGE [email protected] Greg Goodman, 828-684-9703 Joanne Tulip, 828-299-3495, round-trip from Asheville. All hikes assemble of the hike. *Note: If the river is flooded, a P400 Downhill to Pilot Mountain! We’ll P400 *Meet at Westgate at 8:00 AM to [email protected] at Westgate Shopping Center (Exit 3B off I- different hike will be chosen. Second meet- PROGRAMS: take the from the parkway form carpools, and meet leader at Pisgah SB6K For hiking all 40 peaks above 6000’. This strenuous trip from Curtis Creek climbs 240) unless otherwise noted. Some hikes will ing place: Fish Hatchery parking lot off through Farlow and Deep Gaps to the mag- Ranger Station at 8:30 AM. Start at the For information, contact Don Gardner, up and over the Blue Ridge Parkway to the have second meeting places as described in FS475 at 1:45 PM. nificent views from the summit of Pilot gauging station and hike South Mills River Green Knob fire tower. Great views along hike listings. [email protected] Mountain. Then uphill from Pilot Mountain. trail to Wolf Ford, Squirrel Gap, Horse Cove the way as well as at the lunch stop on the HALF-DAY NO. H0604-533 Nov. 5 P400 For hiking every trail in Pisgah If the weather cooperates, it should be a and to FS 5018, then along Funneltop Ridge summit of Green Knob. We’ll return via the HALF-DAY No. H0604-318 Oct. 1 Looking Glass Overlook to Ranger District. For information, contact lovely hike. Second meeting place: Pisgah onto Soapstone Ridge and back to cars. Newberry Creek Trail. May be challenging if East Fork Pigeon River 1:00 PM* Wagon Road Gap on the MST 1:00 PM* Don Gardner, [email protected] Ranger Station at 8:35 AM. Topo: Shining Topo: ; also Nat’l. Geo. PRD there is snow at the higher elevations. Short Hike 5, Drive 74, Rated C-C Drive 70, Hike 5, 1500 ft. ascent, Rated C-A 900M For hiking every trail in GSMNP. Rock; also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map map car shuttle. Topo: Old Fort Nonmembers call leader, Renate Rikkers, Nonmembers call leader, Ruth Hartzler, For information, contact John Gallemore, 828-298-9988, [email protected] 828-251-0886, [email protected] [email protected] WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-540 Oct 25 WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-406 Nov 22 CHRISTMAS EVE – NO HIKE P400 *Note early start time. This in-and- P400 *Note early start time. This moder- MST: Buckeye Gap to FS 816 8:00 AM Pink Beds to Clawhammer Mtn 8:30 AM SCHEDULED Dec. 24 out hike goes along a beautiful stream. ate one-way hike features great views from WEDNESDAY HIKES Hike 10, Drive 70. Rated A-A Hike 8, Drive 86, 2300 ft. ascent, Green Knob. *Second meeting place: BRP All-day hikes submitted by Ann Gleason Jack Fitzgerald, 828-685-2897, Rated B-AA MONDAY NO. A0604-487 Dec. 25 HALF-DAY NO. H0604-436 Oct. 8 Wagon Road parking area (MP 412) at 828-859-9387, gleason.ann@gmail. [email protected] Charlie Ferguson, 828-398-0213,. Bent Creek Loop #9 9:00 AM Mt. Pisgah from the Pisgah Inn 1:00 PM* 1:40 PM. Short car shuttle. com. Driving distance is round-trip from P400 Beautiful walk in woods, around [email protected] Hike 9, Drive 20, 1600 ft. ascent, Rated A-A Drive 44, Hike 4.5, Elevation gain 700 ft., Asheville. Hikes will assemble at Westgate Mt. Hardy and Chestnut Bald. Views from P400 The trailhead is at the Pink Beds park- Lenny & Danny Bernstein, 828-236-0192, Rated C-C HALF-DAY NO. H0604-434 Nov. 12 Shopping Center near I-240, exit 3B unless Silvermine Bald area. Short car shuttle. ing lot (FS477). Climb on the Club Gap trail [email protected] Nonmembers call leader, Laura Stallard, Laurel Mountain Trail 1:00 PM* otherwise noted. Some hikes will have sec- Second meeting place: Cold Mountain to Club Gap. Then take the Black Mt. Trail P400 Note later start time. Join us for a 828-697-1579 Hike 4-5 miles, Drive 40, Rated C-C ond meeting places as described in the hike overlook at 8:40 AM. Topo: Mt. Hardy; along Rich Mtn., climbing through Buckhorn Christmas hike around Bent Creek, starting P400 *Note early start time. View autumn Nonmembers call leader, Greg Goodman, listing. Please phone the hike leader if you also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map Gap and along the ridge to the overlook at at the Hardtimes trailhead. A great close-in, foliage from the top of Mt. Pisgah on this in- 828-684-9703 are not sure of the meeting location. Clawhammer which has great views. That cool weather hike suitable for everyone. and-out hike. Second meeting place: Pisgah P400 *Note early start time. This loop hike WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-089 Nov. 1 will be our lunch stop. Then return the way Dinner at a casual Chinese restaurant for Inn parking lot at 1:30 PM. will start at FS 1206, go along a ridge trail WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-407 Oct 4 8:00 AM we came. We will take our time while climb- those interested. Topos: Dunsmore Mtn. , toward Black Mountain and return via the Dill Falls 8:00 AM* Hike 11, Drive 100, 1800 ft. ascent, ing. Second meeting place: Pisgah Ranger Skyland; also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map HALF DAY No. H0604-381 Oct. 15 Laurel Mountain Trail. There should be good Hike 5, Drive 85, Rated C-C Rated A-A Station at 9:00 AM. Topo: Shining Rock; Snowball Trail 1:00 PM* views of the Mills River Valley.. *Meet at Larry Ballard, 828-891-4318, Adrian Lotherington, 828-350 8065, also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map HIKE CANCELLED – NO LEADER Drive 50, Hike 5.5, Rated B-B Westgate at 1:00 PM to form carpools (call [email protected] [email protected] AVAILABLE Dec. 31 Nonmembers call leader, Jorge Munoz, 828- leader if not familiar with second meet- *Meet at Westgate at 8:00 AM to form A late fall hike that may be our last opportu- WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-519 Nov 29 658-0606, [email protected] ing place); meet leader at the North Mills carpools, and meet leader at Pisgah Forest nity to scale this beautiful section of the AT Raven Cliff Falls, Cathedral NEW YEARS DAY NO. A0701-281 Jan. 1 *Note early start time. This is a moderate River parking area at 1:30 PM. Bi-Lo at 8:30 AM. We will hike to Dill before Jack Frost descends! We will begin Rock, Dismal Trail Loop 8:00 AM Green River Gamelands 8:00 AM in-and-out hike with a nice steady climb to Falls, a magnificent 70 ft. waterfall, then and end at Max Patch, one of WNC’s most Hike 9, Drive 95 2300 ft. ascent, breakfast, 9:00 AM hike* High Rocks (Hawkbill Mtn.). Diverse and HALF-DAY NO. H0604-522 Nov. 19 hike up the west side of Tanasee Creek from stunning views. Second meeting place: Rated A-AA Hike 6.5 or 8, Drive 20 (from centennial trees to be admired all the way Hot Springs Loop 1:00 PM* the point where Charles Creek Road crosses Ann Gleason, 828-859-9387, Hendersonville), 1300 or 1500 ft. ascent, on the ridge. Stop for a snack at Snowball Nonmembers call leader, Don Walton, the creek. There will be two stream crossings SATURDAY WORK DAY [email protected] Rated B-B 828-298-5084, [email protected] Hike to 412 ft. Raven Cliff falls in Caesar’s Mountain before return. Second meet- that require wading. Here is a great chance to learn what is Bruce Bente, 828-692-0116, Hike 3.6, Drive 90, 1000 ft. ascent, Head State Park where we cross the suspen- ing place: Craven Gap on Blue Ridge involved in trail maintenance. We will meet [email protected] Parkway at 1:20 PM. Rated C-B sion bridge and descend 120 ft. down “the WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-336 Oct 11 on Nov. 4 at the Moose Cafe at the Farmer's *Meet at Westgate at 7:30 AM to form *Note early start time. From the camp- Mt. Cammerer from Big Creek 8:00 AM Cathedral.” We then cross Matthews Creek Market on Rt. 191 at 8:00 AM for breakfast. We carpools and meet leader at times above HALF DAY NO. H0604-464 Oct. 22 ground along the Vann Cliff Trail the loop Hike 11.8, Drive 110, 3300 ft. ascent, Rated on a cable crossing and ascend steeply up at the Cracker Barrel in Hendersonville Balsam Gap to ascends to nice views of Hot Springs and the A-AA will return to Asheville around 4:00 PM. Call the Dismal Trail to a large rock outcropping (exit 53 on I26). After breakfast, we’ll do a Greybeard Overlook 1:00 PM* French Broad River Valley, passes Spring Susanna Whitaker, 828-684-5948, Les Love at 828-658-1489 (lesrlove@charter. with a great view of the falls and then return pleasant loop on a series of trails around the Hike 3.5, Drive 44, Rated C-C Creek and then returns to the campground. [email protected] net) to verify date. to parking lot. Second meeting place: Bi-lo Green River Gamelands. We’ll hike down to Nonmembers call leader, Renate Rikkers, 900M We will travel west on I-40, take the parking lot in Pisgah Forest at 8:30 AM. 6 3 Additional meeting place: Raven Cliff ALL DAY SATURDAY or 6000 ft. (southbound) ascent, After dividing our group in two for a key ALL DAY NO. A0604-535 Nov. 19 Greybeard, Green Knob and the Mt. Mitchell parking lot on US 275 at 9:00 AM. Note Rated AA-AA+ swap hike, one group will ascend up Surritt Indian Creek/Sunkota Ridge 7:30 AM* area. Also there’s a grandstand view of there is a $2 fee per person for park entry. AND SUNDAY HIKES Charlie Ferguson, 828-398-0213, Cove. The other group will hike up Long Hike 12, Drive 135, 2000 ft. ascent, the Swannanoa valley from our lunch spot. All-day hikes submitted by Bruce Bente, Topo: Table Rock, also Mountain Bridge [email protected] (southbound) & Branch Cove and both groups will traverse Rated A-A Second meeting place: parking lot adja- 828-692-0116, bbente@cytechusa. Wilderness map Don Gardner, 828-754-4067, the ridge tops of the Newfound Mountains Marianne Newman, 828-454-1036, cent to McDonald’s in Black Mtn. (I-40 com. Driving distance is round-trip from [email protected] (northbound) with their great views to reconnoiter for [email protected] exit 64) at 9:20 AM. Topos: Old Fort, Black Asheville. All Saturday and Sunday hikes WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-471 Dec 6 SB6K Note earlier starting time. Key- lunch atop Sandy Mush Bald. Some cross- 900M *Note early start time. Form car- Mtn. assemble at Westgate Shopping Center near Wagon Road Gap, MST to swap hike. This is your chance to bag seven country hiking required, and be prepared pools at Westgate at 7:30 AM and meet I-240 exit 3B unless otherwise noted. Big East Fork 8:00 AM SB6K peaks on this very strenuous hike. to cross a few barbed-wire fences. Thanks leader at rest area on US23/74 beyond ALL DAY NO. A0604-397 Nov. 26 Hike 9.5, Drive 85, 1500 ft. ascent, The southbound initial climb is 3100 ft., and to Long Branch Environmental Education Waynesville at 8:00 AM. We’ll make a loop Bad Fork/Chestnut Cove ALL DAY NO. A0603-528 Oct. 1 Rated A-A there’s much more climbing in the ups and Center for providing access and coordinating using Indian Creek and Martin’s Gap trails, Overlook (moderate) 8:30 AM* AT: Carmen – Allen Gap 8:00 AM Tom Sanders, 828-252-6327, downs between peaks. North-bounders get permission from contiguous landowners. If then down Sunkota Ridge and Deep Creek Hike 9.5, Drive 5, 950 ft. ascent, Rated A-C (strenuous) [email protected] to go down the 3100 ft. The hike is great fun the weather is clear, the views do not get any Trails, admiring three waterfalls and lovely Stuart English, 828-883-2447, Hike 13.5, Drive 95, 3300 ft. ascent, Starting at Wagon Road Gap, we will follow with incomparable views, but do not consider better! Topos: Sandy Mush, Fines Creek winter views (if the weather cooperates) of [email protected] Rated AA-AA+ the MST south to the connector to the Big this unless you are in top shape. Bring extra Noland and Thomas Divides. Since the hike P400 Note later start time. This is an in- Charlie Ferguson, 828-398-0213, East Fork Trail and follow that down to US water. Participants should phone a leader ALL DAY NO. A0604-406 Nov. 5 is long and the daylight is short, a fairly and-out hike, beginning at the Trace Ridge [email protected] and 276. Short car shuttle. Wilderness area hike, beforehand. Second meeting place: Phone Pink Beds to Clawhammer brisk pace will prevail. Topos: Bryson City, trailhead. We will hike up Bad Fork to the Bruce Bente, 828-692-0116, limited to ten hikers—call leader for reserva- leader. Topos: Celo, Mt. Mitchell; also PNF and return (strenuous) 8:30 AM* Clingman’s Dome; also Nat’l. Geo. GSMNP BRP (a steep 700 ft. ascent for the second [email protected] tions. Second meeting place: Cold Mtn. South Toe River, & Big Ivy Hike 8, Drive 86, 2300 ft ascent, map mile). At Bent Creek Gap, we will follow the A strenuous hike with great payback. This overlook at 8:40 AM. Topo: Shining Rock; Trail Map Rated B-AA MST to the Chestnut Cove Overlook, enjoy AT hike features great views from the also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map Don Walton, 828-654-9904, a beautiful view during lunch, then return to Firescald Knob relo, Blackstock Cliff and BACKPACK NO. A0604-536 ALL DAY NO. A0604-265 Oct. 22 [email protected] the parking area. *Meet at Westgate at 8:30 White Rock Cliffs, and the Camp Creek Bald Nov. 24 - 26 WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-492 Dec 13 Panthertown Prowl #5 8:00 AM P400 *Note later start time. We will climb AM to form carpools, and meet leader at fire tower. The Fork Ridge Trail will be used Backpack in the Smokies: Newfound Cookie Hike in the Hike 8-10, Drive 120, 1200 ft. ascent, from the Pink Beds (FS 477) to Club Gap. Trace Ridge parking lot at 9:00 AM. Topo: to access the AT from the Carmen area. Key Gap – Davenport Gap Arboretum Area 9:00 AM* Rated B-B Then we take the Black Mt. Trail, climbing Dunsmore Mtn; also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map, swap. Topos: Greystone, Davy Crockett Hike 31.3, Drive 250, 5500 ft. ascent, Hike 7-8, Drive 12, 1000 ft. ascent, Joe Cirvello, 828-252-2721, through Buckhorn Gap and along the ridge to and MST Profiles, pgs. 55-56 Lake, Hot Springs; also Nat’l. Geo. French Rated AA+-AA+ Rated B-C [email protected] the overlook at Clawhammer Mtn. for lunch Broad & Nolichucky Rivers map Paul Benson, 828-251-1909, Ken and Carol Deal, 828-281-4530, This will be our annual exploration of beauti- and 180 degree views. *Meet at Westgate [email protected] ALL DAY NO. A0604-537 Dec. 3 [email protected] ful Panthertown valley, and again is timed at 8:30 AM to form carpools, and meet Pinnacle Pass/Rim of the Gap/ ALL DAY NO. A0603-249 Oct. 1 900M This is a challenging three- *Note later start time. Bring a few home- for the brightest leaf colors. Our route leader at Pisgah Ranger Station at 9:00 Coggins Loop (strenuous) 8:00 AM* Haywood Gap / Buckeye Gap 8:30 AM* day backpack. We will traverse the made goodies to share. We will hike on trails this year will be determined by a scouting AM. Topos: Shining Rock, Pisgah Forest; Hike 10, Drive 110, 2000 ft. ascent, (moderate) eastern half of Great Smoky Mountains constructed by the CMC in the Arboretum trip and will be posted on the E-News at also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map Rated A-A Hike 9, Drive 80, 1500 ft. ascent, Rated A-A National Park via the Appalachian and cover some trails in the Lake Powhatan a later time. Second meeting place: Bi- Matt Sowles, 864-855-6861, Larry Modlin, 828-251-5092, Trail. The views should be outstanding area also. Bring your Arboretum membership Lo in Pisgah Forest at 8:30 AM Topo: ALL DAY NO. A0604-526 Nov. 5 [email protected] [email protected] from this high ridgeline. Expect win- card if you have one. There is a $6 parking Big Ridge; also Nat’l. Geo. Nantahala & Down the Incline 8:40 AM* From the Caesar’s Head Visitor Center, P400 *Note later start time. Follow MST, ter conditions. Day 1: We will drop a fee otherwise. Second meeting place: Ingles Cullasaja Gorges map (moderate) we’ll do a loop hike in the Mountain Bridge then scenic Haywood Gap Stream down vehicle at Davenport Gap and drive up parking lot across from Biltmore Square Hike 8, Drive 80, 1350 ft. ascent, Rated B-B Wilderness Area. We’ll start with the on rough trail through the Middle Prong to Newfound Gap where we will hike at 9:15 AM. Topo: Asheville: also Nat’l SATURDAY NO. A0604-422 Oct. 28 Tom Bindrim & Joan Lemire, 828-273-3880 Naturaland and Pinnacle Pass Trails, then Wilderness to junction with Buckeye Gap the AT 10.4 miles to the Pecks Corner Geo PRD map and Bent Creek Trail Map Big Laurel - Pump Gap 9:00 AM* P400 This hike is being repeated for those cut over to the Rim of the Gap Trail and Trail. Climb up onto ridge to more open shelter; Day 2: Continue on the AT Hike 7, Drive 70, 2400 ft. ascent, who missed it last time. Some off-trail; his- follow it to the Frank Coggins Trail back to forest, then follow old logging RR grade 12.9 miles to the Cosby Knob shelter; WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-279 Dec 20 Rated B-AA toric; wilderness area, limit 10, so call leader our cars. If the weather is cold, there may up. Wilderness area hike, limited to ten hik- Day 3: Continue on the AT 8 miles to Montreat: RR Trestle Grade Amy Treverton, 828-298-1882, for reservation. Are you inclined? *Note be ice on the Rim of the Gap Trail. *Meet ers—call leader for reservations. Second Davenport Gap. Participants must be to Pot Cove 9:10 AM* [email protected] later start time. Meet at Westgate at 8:40 at Westgate at 8:00 AM to form carpools, meeting place: BRP Cold Mtn. overlook at experienced in cold weather back- Hike 7, Drive 35, 1000 ft. ascent, Rated B-C *Note later start time. Starting at Hurricane, AM to form carpools, and meet leader at and meet leader at Caesar’s Head Visitor 9:00 AM. Topo: Sam Knob packing, be strong hikers and have Gerry McNabb,828-274-0057, we’ll hike the Big Laurel Creek trail down second meeting place (phone leader for a spirit of adventure. We will cross Center parking lot at 9:00 AM. Make stop [email protected] to the French Broad River, then up Pump location.). Topo: Sam Knob; also Nat’l. Geo. at Bi-Lo in Pisgah Forest at 8:30 AM for Nantahala Hiking and Rafting Weekend a remote area from which rescue is *Note later start time. An easy in and out Branch to Pump Gap, and the AT past PRD map additional hikers. Topos: Cleveland, Table Oct. 6 - 8 extremely difficult. Meeting place and hike to Pot Cove from the Lookout Trail Lover’s Leap before ending at the hot tubs in Rock; also Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area We will stay at the Nantahala Outdoor time: call leader. Space is limited to parking lot. Some internal loops for variety. Hot Springs. Nice scenery along the creeks ALL DAY No. A0604-270 Nov. 12 Trail Map Center in Wesser in the Nantahala Gorge. eight hikers so please verify that you Second meeting place: Parking lot adja- and river. Bring your swimsuit and plan on Cedar Rock Mtn./ Challenging and moderate hikes are sched- can attend before reserving a spot. cent to Black Mtn. McDonald's just south stopping at either the hot tubs and/or supper. John Rock Loop 8:30 AM* ALL DAY NO. A0604-538 Dec. 3 uled. In addition, you can raft and bike. This Topos: Clingman’s Dome, Mt. LeConte, of I-40 exit 64 at 9:30 AM. Topo: Montreat Please contact Amy if you plan to use the Hike 8, Drive 80, Rated B-A Vineyard Gap/Forge Mtn. Loop 9:00 AM is also a perfect family weekend. All the Mt. Guyot, Luftee Knob, Hartford; also hot tubs so she can make reservations. Car Carroll Koepplinger, 828-667-0723, (moderate) information is posted on the E-News includ- Nat’l. Geo. GSMNP map WEDNESDAY NO. W0604-286 Dec. 27 shuttle. Topo: Hot Springs; also Nat’l. Geo. [email protected] Hike 7, Drive 55, 800 ft. ascent, Rated B-C ing the planned hikes and reduced room Sycamore Cove Trails 8:10 AM* French Broad & Nolichucky Rivers map P400 *Note later start time. This trip fea- Ruth Hartzler, 828-251-0886, rates. If you want the details mailed to you, Hike 7, Drive 70, Rated B-B tures two of the spectacular rock summits [email protected] send me a self-addressed stamped envelope Pat Elias, 828-687-1651, ALL DAY NO. A0604-217 Oct. 29 in the Pisgah Forest, with great views from SATURDAY NO. A0604-278 Nov. 25 P400 Note later start time. This is a nice to Danny Bernstein 488 Kimberly Ave. [email protected] Sandy Mush Bald Ramble 8:00AM both. Starting at the Fish Hatchery, we’ll Kitsuma Peak 9:00 AM* loop hike from the Turkey Pen parking area, Asheville, NC 28804. danny@hikertohiker. P400 *Meet at Westgate at 8:10 AM Hike 9.5, Drive 40, 3100 ft. ascent, have our major climb up to Cat Gap and then Hike 8, Drive 60, 2000 ft. ascent, a walk along the Forge Mtn. ridge, a pleas- org to form carpools; meet hike leader at Rated A-AA+ on to Cedar Rock for lunch. We’ll return via Rated B-AA ant stroll along the South Mills River, ending entrance to Davidson River Campground Rob Resnick 828-255-8066 John Rock. Second meeting place: Pisgah Tom Sanders, 828-252-6327, with a short, steep climb up to the parking ALL DAY NO. A0604-082 Oct. 15 parking lot on US 276 at 8:45 AM. An easy [email protected] Fish Hatchery at 8:40 AM. Topo: Shining [email protected] area. Second meeting place: Turkey Pen The Blacks Beyond 6000 7:30 AM hike (some uphill) in the Pisgah Forest along Sarah Carothers, 828-586-3282, Rock. *Note later starting time. Our hike up parking area at 9:30 AM. Topo: Pisgah (strenuous) several trails: Thrift Cove, Grassy Road. [email protected] Young’s Ridge offers great views of Forest; also Nat’l. Geo. PRD map Hike 11.3, Drive 125, 3000 ft. (northbound) 4 5