Join the NC High Peaks Trail Association on Friday, April 5 for a challenging Spring hike along the Appalachian Trail from Devil Fork Gap to the I-26 crossing. The hike should offer nice views to the north and west from this section, which roughly follows the NC/TN border.

The 9-mile adventure is rated as strenuous because of its length and a steady diet of challenging up-and-down terrain. Only experienced, fit hikers should attend. The group will likely encounter AT thru-hikers, as the big Spring push is underway, and some of these folks may have interesting stories to tell. You might bring fruit or small packages of cookies/treats/sweets to dispense as “Trail Magic.”

The group will assemble at 8:30 a.m. at the Rose’s Shopping Center parking lot on the corner overlooking Highway 19-E. A Yancey Transportation van will take us to the trailhead for $5 per person. The van will return the group to Burnsville at the end of the hike, which should take 5 to 6 hours.

Leashed dogs are allowed on the hike but not on the vans, so if you want to bring your pet you must provide your own transportation. 

Bring plenty of water, snacks, lunch, hiking poles if you use them and clothing that fits the forecast. This section is exposed to the NW and is often very windy and much colder than protected areas at lower elevations, so plan accordingly.

Hikers must register at least a day in advance with Hike Leader Jimmie Bowen at 252-450-5224 or jbowen6116@gmail.com.

As always, check the High Peaks Facebook page or website, www.nchighpeaks.org, for last-minute changes due to weather.