Experienced, fit hikers are invited to join High Peaks on Friday, August 12 for a trek on the Big Butt Trail from Walker Knob Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Cane River Gap.

This 5.6-mile trek is rated as very strenuous and should not be attempted by novices. The route descends about 1,500 feet, but also has a few significant climbs, including a long stairway up Little Butt, which rewards climbers with a spectacular view of the Black Mountains. Hikers will also be given the option of a short side-trip to the Big Butt summit. 

Meet at 8:30 a.m. in the Rose’s Shopping Center parking lot on the corner overlooking Highway 19-E. We will provide transportation in a county van for a donation of $5 per rider but ask that you RSVP the hike leader by Wednesday evening August 10 to reserve your seat in the van. 

Leashed dogs are welcome on the hike, but dogs are not allowed on county vans so if you bring your canine friend you’ll have to provide your own transportation. You can meet the group at Walker Knob Overlook near Mile Marker 360 on the Blue Ridge Parkway at 9:45 a.m. and hike in with the group as far as you wish then return on your own to your vehicle. 

The county van will pick up the group at Cane River Gap for a return ride to the Burnsville, arriving there around 3:30 p.m. 

As always, check the High Peaks Facebook page or website, www.nchighpeaks.org, for last-minute changes due to weather. For more information or to reserve your spot in the van, contact hike leader Dennis Smith at dennissmith4141@gmail.com or 284-4000.