All Day Sunday

And Saturday Hikes

Second Quarter 2002

All Day Sunday and Saturday Hikes. All day hikes submitted by Tom Sanders 252‑6327. The half‑day hikes submitted by Anita and Richard Walkey 681‑2967. Half day hikes for next quarter should be submitted to Elisabeth Feil 684‑8719. Hike leaders, please call the hike scheduler with your suggestions. Sign up sheets need to be mailed to this quarter’s schedulers. Driving distance is round trip from Asheville. All the following hikes assemble at Westgate Shopping Center UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. The meeting place for each hike will be designated by the hike leader and will appear in the hike description. Driving mileage will be listed from the first designated meeting place.

Hike Ratings

1st Letter- 2nd Letter-

Distance Elevation Gain

AA: Over 12 miles AA: over 2,000 ft.

A: 9‑12 miles A: 1,500-2000 ft.

B: 6‑9 miles B: 1,000‑1,500 ft,

C: under 6 miles C: under 1,000 ft.

Also in the hike descriptions, the terms easy, moderate or strenuous reflect the overall trail conditions, the physical challenge and other factors influencing hike difficulty. If you have questions, CALL THE LEADER.

ALL DAY No. 7851 April 14

Mountains‑to‑Sea Trail: 8:00 A.M.

Beargap Gap to

Doubletop Mountain Overlook

Hike 14.2, Drive 90, Rated C‑AA

Larry Modlin 251‑5092

A lengthy though very moderate trip along a section of the MTS south of the part that CMC main maintains Expect to enjoy a fine spring day with flowers. Topo: Hazelwood, Sam Knob, Tuckaseegee.

ALL DAY No. 7852 April 21

Mt. Pisgah from Yellow 8:00 A.M.

Gap Road via Pilot Mt.

Hike 12, Drive 80, Rated AA‑AA

Carroll Koepplinger 667‑0723

This trip provides fabulous views from Pilot Mt. and Mt. Pisgah, as well as early spring flowers. Starting from Yellow Gap Rd. the well‑graded trail rises 2700 feet with lunch atop 5721 ft. Mt. Pisgah. Topos: Dunsmore Mt. and Cruso

SATURDAY No. 7853 April 27 **Hike Details**

NC 215 Devils Courthouse, 8:00 A.M.

Sam Knob Loop

Hike 11, Drive 95, Rated A‑A

Tom Sanders 252‑6327

We’ll hike along the Mountains‑ to‑Sea Trail, stopping at Devils Courthouse (great views), with an optional short bushwhack up 40 over 6000 Chestnut Bald (6040 ft.), then culminating with a Steep climb up 6040 ft. Sam Knob (even better views) before returning to NC 215. Limited to 10 so call leader for reservation. Topos: Sam Knob, Shining Rock.

ALL DAY No. 7854 April 28

Robe Rock, AT, 8:00 A.M.

Groundhog Creek Loop

Hike 10, Drive 95, Rated AA

Bruce Bente 692‑9984

A beautiful trip, usually rich in wildflowers. Located in the Harmon Den area of the Pisgah National Forest, this hike features about 3 miles of the Appalachian Trail and 2 Streams. Moderate. Second Meeting Place: Pilot Truck Stop off I‑40 at Exit 24 at 8:30 A.M. Topo: Waterville

ALL DAY No. 7855 May 5

Charlie’s Bunion, 8:00 A.M.

Kephart Prong

Hike 9, Drive 140, Rated AB,

Elisabeth Feil, 684-8719

An unforgettable rock outcropping along the AT, stunning views and a beautiful wildflower display are the highlights of this trip. Over Richland Mt. and down Kephart Prong. Moderate. Second meeting place: Quality Inn, Junction U.S. 19 and U.S. 276 in Maggie Valley at 8:30 A.M. Topos: Smokemont, Clingmans Dome and Mt. Guyot.

AT Sequence Backpack
No. 7856 May 9‑12 **Hike Details**

Mt. Rogers to Damascus, Virginia

Hike 40, Drive 250, Rated AA‑AA plus

Larry Modlin 251‑5092

Join us on a hike in Damascus, VA during the “Trail Days” celebration for through hikers on the AT. This is arguably the most beautiful section of the AT, traversing Grayson Highlands State Park, Mt. Rogers (highest peak in Va.), and Whitetop Mt. (the only known volcanic peak in the eastern US). The average daily distance is 13.6 miles. The wilderness areas limit the group to 10, so sign on early. Call the trip leader for more details. Maps: AT Guidebook

ALL DAY No. 7857 May 12

AT: Max Patch to Lemon 8:00 A.M.

Gap and Return

Hike 11, Drive 100, Rated A‑B

Lewis and Jane Blodgett 274‑7863

This hike, which we haven’t done on Sunday in 4 years, is legendary for the Trillium, and we hope this date will coincide with them. It’s also a beautiful section of the AT, beginning and ending at Max Patch Mt. with one of WNC’s most stunning views. Second meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop off I‑40 at Exit 24, 8:30 A.M. Topo: Lemon Gap

ALL DAY No. 7858 May 19

Hump Mt. from Elk Park 7:30 A.M.

Hike 9, Drive 140, Rated B‑AA

Judy and Bob Byrd 299‑7681

This is one of the crown jewels of the AT. The views and flowers should be fantastic. Although the trip is only 8 miles, the steep climb makes this hike somewhat strenuous. Second meeting place: McDonalds in Black Mountain at 7:50 a.m. Topos: Elk Park and White Rocks

ALL DAY No. 7859 May 26

King Creek, Art Loeb, 8:00 A.M.

Mine Branch Trails

Hike 11, Drive 90, Rated A‑A

Ingrid Birkelund 828‑877‑3086

This hike takes off from near Ingrid’s house in Brevard, goes up King Creek Trail with waterfalls, to Cat Gap, where it joins the Art Loeb Trail. Then down to Davidson River, back up the North Slope Trail and return via Nine Branch Trail. Topo: Rosman, Shining Rock

Memorial Day Joint Hike With Smoky Mountain Hiking Club

No. 7860 May 27

AT: Max Patch to I-40 8:00 A.M. Hike 14, Drive 100, Rated AA‑AA

Doris Gove 865‑522‑9896, CMC members call Barbara Passmore 667‑8684

This annual event enables us to meet fellow hikers from the Smoky Mt. Hiking Club in Knoxville. Beginning at 4,629 ft. Max Patch with it 360 degree views, we will follow the AT across 4,263 ft. Snowbird Mt, and end at I-40 on the Pigeon River. Good displays of wildflowers should be found at the higher elevations. Second meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop on NC 208, Exit 24, off I‑40 at 8:30 A.M. Topo: Waterville

ALL DAY No. 7861 June 2 **Hike Details**

Ramsey Cascades (Strenuous) 8:00 A.M.

Hike 8, Drive 160, Rated B‑AA

Carroll Koepplinger 667-0723

Sixty‑foot high Ramsey Cascades is located in a rich forested glen with a variety of flowers. The drive and physical effort to reach this beautiful destination are a small price to pay for the reward. Second meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop, Exit 24, I-40 and NC 209 at 8:30 A.M. Topo: Mt Guyot

ALL DAY No. 7862 June 2

Boogerman Trail (Moderate) 8:00 A.M.

Hike 8, Drive 90, Rated B-B

Jorge Munoz, 658‑0606

Lush forests and abundant remnants of pioneer life will frame a rich abundance of flowers on this favorite hike in the Cataloochee area of the Great Smoky Mtns. Second meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop, Exit 24 off I-40 at 8:30 A.M. Topos: Cove Creek Gap, Dellwood

ALL DAY No, 7863 June 9

AT: Devils Fork 8:00 A.M.

Gap to Carmen

Hike 11, Drive 94, Rated A‑A

Les Love, 658-1489

This trip goes along 8.8 of the most beautiful miles on the AT. It features two shelters, including Jerry’s Cabin, an historic gravesite, and beautiful views from atop Big Butt. We then go down Fork Ridge to Carmen. Car shuttle. Topos: Flagpond and Graystone.

ALL DAY No. 7864 June 16 **Hike Details** **Hike Details**

Mt. Mitchell to Winterstar 8:00 A.M.

Hike 10, Drive 75, Rated A‑AA

Amy Treverton 298‑1882

Starting from the parking lot at Mt. Mitchell, we will traverse 4 peaks over 6000 feet: Mt. Craig 6647, Balsam Cove, 6611, Potato Hill, 6475, and Winterstar Mt. 6212, then return and stroll up 6684 Mt. Mitchell. Strenuous, with long ascents and tough tread, but exceptional views. Topo: Mt. Mitchell

ALL DAY No. 7865 June 23 **Hike Details**

Cold Mountain 8:00 A.M.

Hike 11, Drive 70, Rated A‑AA

Paul Benson 251-1909

Here’s your chance to climb the mountain immortalized by Charles Frazier. From the Scout Camp we will ascend 2500 ft. to the summit of this 6030 ft. peak. Strenuous, so you should be in good shape. Wilderness area, limited to 10, so call leader for reservation. Topo: Waynesville, Cruso

SATURDAY No. 7866 June 29

Big Yellow Mountain 8:30 A.M.

Hike 5, Drive 140, Rated C-B

Diane Hankins 298‑2870 (before 9 p.m.)

Leisurely paced hike on the AT near Spruce Pine. We hope to see Gray’s Lily. Fantastic views from our lunch spot. Suitable for anyone over 10 years old (those under 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult). Only meeting place: Westgate Shopping Center (unless other arrangements made with leader before June 29. Topo: Carver’s Gap.

Mountains-To-Sea Backpack

No. 7867 June 29‑3023 **Hike Details**

Mountains‑to‑Sea:

Clingman’s Dome

to Oconaluftee Ranger Station

Hike 27, Drive 150, Rated AA‑AA

Danny and Lenny Bernstein 236‑0192

Explore the Mountains‑to‑Sea Trail in the Great Smokies with your leaders. Mostly downhill on the first day, but some strenuous climbs on the second. Backcountry camping rules limit this trip to 8 people. See www.hikertohiker.org/mstl or call Danny and Lenny Bernstein to reserve your place or for additional information. Topo: Clingmans Dome, Smoke-mont

ALL DAY No. 7868 July 7

Old Settlers Trail 7:30 A.M.

(Strenuous)

Hike 17, Drive 160, Rated AA‑AA

Don Gardner 828‑757‑5221

It’s been over 6 years since we did this trip in the Greenbriar area of the Smokies. It features rich bottomland of hemlock and hardwood forest, while passing many old home sites with chimneys, rock walls and exotic plants now remaining. Although no ascent is more than 800 ft., the hike is strenuous because there are 4 such ascents and because of the length. Plan a long day. Second meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop at Exit off I-40 at 8:00 AM. Map: Great Smoky Mtns.

ALL DAY No. 7869 July 7

Big Creek to 8:00 A.M.

Walnut Bottoms (Moderate)

Hike 10, Drive 100, Rated A-C

Renate Rikkers 298‑9988

The Big Creek Trail, which is almost level, follows one of the largest and most beautiful streams in the Smokies up to Walnut Bottoms, a popular picnicking and camping site. On what is likely a hot summer day, bring your bathing suit for a dip. Second meeting place at Pilot Truck Stop, Exit 24 off I-40 at 8:30 A.M. Topos: Lufte Knob, Cove Creek Gap, Waterville.

ALL DAY No. 7870 July 14

Mt. Leconte via Rainbow 8:00 AM

Falls and Bughead Trails

Hike 14, Drive 180, Rated AA‑AA

Joe Cirvelto 627‑1797

From Cherokee Orchard near Gatlinburg, Joe will lead us up the Rainbow Falls Trail, named after the falls we pass, then to the top of 6593 ft. Mt. Leconte. Return via the superbly constructed Bullshead Trail, one of the best in the Smokies. Count on a long day and strenuous hike. Meeting place: Pilot Truck Stop on NC 209, off I‑40 at Exit 24 at 8:30 A.M. Topo: Mt. Leconte

Half-Day Hikes

Second Quarter 2002

HALF DAY No. 7882 April 14

Laurel River 1:00 P.M.

Hike 7.2, Drive 60, Rated BC

Jan Lounsbury, 689‑5006
e‑mail j.lounsbury@verizon.net

The trail follows Big Laurel Creek to the confluence with the French Broad River at Runion, which was a thriving logging town in the 1900’s. Note early start time & only meeting place Ingles on Hwy. 25/70 Marshall bypass.

HALF DAY No. 7883 April 21

Hickory Branch Trail Noon

Hike 4, Drive 45, Rated CC

Diane Hankins, 298‑2870 (Before 9 P.M.)

Note early start time. Very leisurely paced hike in the Curtis Creek area of Pisgah National Forest near Old Fort. Early wildflowers expected. Suitable for anyone over 10 years old (Those under 18 MUST be accompanied by adult.) Unless other arrangements are made with leader before April 21, the only meeting place is Oteen Ingles parking lot near the post office.

HALF DAY No. 7884 April 28

Blue Ridge Pinnacle 1:30 P.M.

Hike 4, Drive 50, Rated CC

Jay Bretz, 658‑1220

Prominent peak near Mt. Mitchell, second only to Grandfather Mt. in height on Blue Ridge. Ideal for viewing junction of Blue Ridge with Black & Craggy Mt. Ranges.

HALF DAY No. 7885 May 5

Twin Falls 1:30 P.M.

Hike 6, Drive 80, Rated B-B

Bruce Bente, 692‑0116

A moderate hike in the Pisgah National Forest. Hike on Buckhorn Gap Trail, then the Twin Falls bypass to the twin waterfalls. Many wildflowers. Then complete a loop on FS road and beautiful Clawhammer Cove Trail, with a stop at a big beaver dam. Second meeting place at Pisgah Ranger Station at 2:10 p.m.

HALF DAY No. 7886 May 12

Pilot Mt. From 1:30 P.M.

Gloucester Gap

Hike 6, Drive 100, Rated C-A

Heinz Feil, 684‑8719

e‑mail hofeil@brinet.com

A favorite loop trip, especially at this time of year. We’ll climb 2000 feet in 2 miles to the top for outstanding views. Return trip down, though breathtaking display of pink shell azalea and then back to our cars. Second meeting place at the N.F. Ranger Station on 276 at 2:15 p.m.

HALF DAY No. 7887 May 19

Frying Pan Tower 1:30 P.M.

Hike 4, Drive 40, Rated C-B

Boyd Brasington 828‑ 254‑8675

Meeting Place is French Broad Overlook on Blue Ridge Parkway just off of Hwy. NC 191. Second meeting place is Pisgah Inn parking area. Trail through woods on ridge to Frying Pan Gap. Jeep road to Tower. Wide view. Some may elect to take supper at the Inn. Check with your driver.

HALF DAY May 26

No Hike Leader available

Have a Great Holiday!

HALF DAY No. 7888 June 2

Pink Beds Loop 1:30 P.M.

Hike 5, Drive 80, Rated C-C

Ned & Laura Stallard, 697‑1579

This easy hike is very popular. It has negligible elevation changes but lots of roots & probably mud along the South Fork of Mills River. The exact route & length of the hike can change due to the activities of the resident beavers. Second meeting place at Ranger Station on U.S. 276 at 2:10 P.M..

HALF DAY No. 7889 June 9

Douglas Falls 1:30 P.M.

Hike 4, Drive 60, Rated C-B

Jorge Munoz, 658‑0606

This in-and-out hike starts with an easy half‑mile walk to a spectacular waterfall. Then a steady climb for 1.5 miles to a cascading stream. This is one of the trails that the CMC crew has rebuilt,

HALF DAY No. 7890 June 16

Sam Knob 1:30 P.M.

Hike 4, Drive 76, Rated C-A

Bernard Elias, 274‑0202

Prime viewpoint, panorama of Plott Balsams, Smokies, Cold Mt., Shining Rock, deep valleys

HALF DAY No. 7891 June 23

Greybeard Overlook 1:30 P.M.

North to Heath Balds

Hike 4, Drive 40, Rated C-B

Gerry McNabb, 274‑0057

gcmcnabb@charter.net

From the overlook at BRP milepost 363.4 we hike north to the, open vistas on top and return. Varied plant communities. Second meeting place lower lot Folk Art Center 1:45 P.M.

HALF DAY No. 7892 June 30

Mt. Craig & Big Tom 1:30 P.M.

Hike 4, Drive 60, Rated C-C

Richard & Anita Walkey, 681‑2967

e‑mail walkey@juno.com

Because of fog we were not able to do this hike last time it was scheduled but we are going to try it again. Don’t let the CC rating fool you. The trail is very rocky and will give hikers a workout. However, the spectacular view of 3 Mt. Ranges makes it worth the effort. Bring a jacket! Only meeting place, Folk Art Center lower parking lot.

HALF DAY No. 7893 July 7

MTS From 1:30 P.M.

Sweeten Creek Road

Hike 4, Drive 14, Rated C-C

Doug French, 274‑5331

This is a leisurely paced in and out hike on the MTS. Second meeting place Blue Ridge Parkway overpass on Sweeten Creek Road.