Experienced hikers are invited to join the NC High Peaks Trail Association for a challenging but rewarding hike on Friday, June 3 on the Appalachian Trail over Beauty Spot and Unaka Mountain. The outing should offer spectacular views of the Western NC mountains, including the Blacks.

The 6-mile jaunt, an out-and-back to Unaka Mountain, includes a 1,000-foot elevation change and is rated as strenuous, so only experienced hikers in top condition should participate.

The group will meet on the corner of the Rose’s Shopping Center parking lot overlooking Highway 19-E at 8:30 a.m. and will carpool to the trailhead. Bring plenty of water, snacks, lunch, hiking poles if you use them and rain gear and warm clothes if the weather looks threatening. Leashed dogs are allowed on the hike.

Please contact Hike Leader Dennis Smith at 284-4000 or dennissmith4141@gmail.com so that he can keep a headcount and will know you are coming.

If this outing sounds too strenuous, check the High Peaks Facebook page or website, www.nchighpeaks.org, for info about a June 9 stroll at the Rhododendron Garden at Roan Mountain. An announcement should also appear in next week’s newspapers.

As with all High Peaks outings, participants should check the website and Facebook page for last-minute changes due to weather.

Photo Caption: Hikers will get views like this from Beauty Spot on the June 3 hike.