Saturday No. A2603-475      Jul 04, 2026
Hump Mountain and Yellow Mountain Area 8:00 AM
Hike 8.4, Drive 133, 2400 ft. ascent, Rated B-AA, AT_MST
Judy Magura, 828-579-0321, quilter290@gmail.com and Jim Magura, 828-579-1099, jqs290@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Publix at 165 Weaver Blvd. Weaverville lower end of parking lot off Exit 19 of I-26. Hike rescheduled from June 27 due to severe weather on bald. Contact the hike leader by email for reservation. Join us along one of the most scenic areas on the A.T. near Roan Mountain (Roan-Unaka Range), where we will watch for blooming rhododendron, flame azalea and Gray's lily. We will hike from Roaring Creek Road to Yellow Mountain Gap, joining the A.T. along an open ridge to Little Hump Mtn. and Hump Mtn. We will have lunch on a grassy bald at 5587 ft. and return to Yellow Mtn. Gap, then take the Overmountain Victory Loop back to the trailhead. This hike is #99 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Carvers Gap

SCOUTREPORT: Judy and I had a perfect weather day with full sun and mild temperatures on our scout hike. It did take us 1.5 hours to drive to the trail head, but the outstanding views along the trail on the bald were worth it. The parking area was nearly full when we arrived at the trail head in the early afternoon via the dirt access road, but one spot remained which we quickly occupied. Hiking up through the forest to the bald was fairly easy, but once we arrived at the AT we were treated with outstanding long range views everywhere we looked. The Spring flowers just added to the enjoyment of the day. Judy and I had hiked to the bald and AT several times over the past 15 years and we both quickly agreed why this hike left us with such great memories. We encountered quite a few backpackers and small groups on the trail accompanied by their four footed pet.

HIKEREPORT: We had a great weather day with 9 hikers joining me and Judy for this all day hike to Hump Mountain. This was at least our eleventh trip on this hike since we joined the club 16 years ago and it still is one of our favorite all day hikes . This hike never seems to get old with its outstanding views of the surrounding mountains. The hike up and back is excellent with some woods and plenty of sun on the AT and the long range views. We could even see Grandfather Mountain in the distance when we reached the AT. We enjoyed our lunch break and some rest on top of Hump Mountain (our turn around point). Several other couples, groups and backpackers were also on the trail. We returned back down to the parking area on an alternate route from the AT. Over the years, the old red barn Overmountain shelter had been repainted and was always visible. Unfortunately the shelter had become a safety hazard and no longer existed.

Sunday No. A2603-190      Jul 05, 2026
Mt. Mitchell to Walker Knob via Blackstock Knob 8:30 AM
Hike 9.5, Drive 70, 1600 ft. ascent, Rated A-A, AT_MST, SB6K
Kathy Cornn/Kyle, 828-458-1282, katherinenkyle@gmail.com and Michael Cornn, 828-458-1281, mwcornn@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. Contact leaders for reservation. Form carpools and meet leaders at Walker Knob at 9:00 am. This is one of the really great sections of the MST and includes two SB6K peaks. The first part of the hike features exceptional views south from the Black Mtns., while the second part showcases the trail-building and rock-work achievements of the CMC. We'll hope to see blooming Turk's cap lilies and see spectacular scenery from our lunch spot on a rocky outcropping. NOTE: Leaders may be camping at Mt. Mitchell Campground, so they will meet the group at Walker Knob at 9:00 am to drop off cars for the car shuttle.
Topo(s): Mt. Mitchell

SCOUTREPORT: The trail was in good shape when we scouted this hike in June. We did not see any damage from Hurricane Helene on the trail, but we will be going slowly downhill at the beginning because it is rocky. Afterward we will have a rocky uphill so again we will go at a moderate pace because of the rocky terrain. The expansive views, cool high-altitude, fraser firs, red spruces make this an enjoyable hike. We are not camping as described in the write up because the campground is closed for repairs, so we will meet everyone at the Folk Art Center at 8:30.

HIKEREPORT: The temperature was a cool 57°F this past Sunday as our group of four tackled the hike from Mt. Mitchell to Walker Knob. Though the weather started comfortably, thunder began rumbling toward the end of our trek, and a steady, cold rain began to fall the moment we reached our car. The 10.22-mile trail featured a mix of intermittent level sections and rolling terrain, totaling 1,516 feet of elevation gain. Along the way, we had some memorable encounters: we met an MST thru-hiker accompanied by his grey tabby cat, Jericho, and earlier we had crossed paths with two CMC hikers out enjoying the cooler temperatures. The trail was beautiful, with rhododendrons at peak bloom. Turk’s Cap lilies were abundant, though most were still in the budding stage. After lunch, we encountered the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. It was clear that the trail crews had put in an immense amount of difficult work clearing large downed trees. Interestingly, the storm damage and subsequent clearing have opened up new views, making the ridge walk much more prominent. As for our supplies, we had packed watermelon to enjoy in anticipation of warmer weather—but given the unexpected chill, it turned out to be far too cold to eat.

Saturday No. A2603-531      (canceled)      Jul 11, 2026
Pisgah Inn to Big Ridge Overlook Wildflower Hike on the MST 9:00 AM
Hike 6.0, Drive 50, 1040 ft. ascent, Rated C-B, AT_MST, P400
Brenda Worley, 828-606-7297, bjdworley@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26.
Second Meeting Place: BRP Big Ridge Overlook at MM 403.6 at 9:30 AM
Contact leader by email for reservation. Limit of 10 hikers. Form carpools and meet the leader at Big Ridge O/L (MM 403.6) at 9:30am to set up the shuttle. Enjoy the mountain views along the MST from Pisgah Inn to the Big Ridge Overlook. After Little Pisgah Mountain, it’s downhill almost all the way. We will expect to see blooming Turk's cap lilies and black cohosh, among other summer wildflowers. Approximate 5-mile car shuttle.
Topo(s): Dunsmore Mt

SCOUTREPORT: Adrianne, Judy, and I scouted this hike on a beautiful day. Many wildflowers are blooming, and there is promise of more. There is one steep, short climb on this hike, over the Pisgah Ridge. After that, there is a steep downhill to Elk Pasture Gap. Poles are recommended because of this steep downhill. Then the trail is almost flat to Big Ridge Overlook. We will leave cars at the Big Ridge Overlook and drive to the Pisgah Inn, where we will begin the hike.

Sunday No. A2603-578      Jul 12, 2026
Flat Laurel Creek, Little Sam Knob, MST Loop 8:00 AM
Hike 7.7, Drive 60, 1000 ft. ascent, Rated B-C, AT_MST
Donna Lanning, 828-606-7956, dblanning@bellsouth.net
First Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26. Contact hike leader by email for reservation. Limit of 12 hikers. Form carpools and meet hike leader at second meeting place. This is a pleasant loop trail in the Pisgah Ranger District with views of Sam Knob, Fork Ridge, and Flat Laurel Creek. We'll be hiking in a counterclockwise direction, up the MST with a side trip to Devils Courthouse, down the Little Sam Trail and then a gentle return on the Flat Laurel Creek Trail. At times it feels like you’re in an ancient forest. We'll end with a half-mile walk on NC 215 to our cars.
Topo(s): Sam Knob

SCOUTREPORT: Lorraine and I throughly enjoyed this scout! I’ve previously been on that section of the MST and Little Sam, of course, but it had been a long time. The first mile or so is an easy to moderate climb on a rocky trail with lots of roots, definitely have to pay attention. The rest of the hike will be a really nice walk in the woods, a few sunny spots though still mostly in the shade which is appreciated in July. The trail is mostly above 5000 ft. and though probably humid to a degree in the summer, the temps will be lower than in Asheville. The detour to Devils Courthouse (~.7 mi.) off the MST involves a short climb to the lookout, could be crowded with tourists, but still worth it! We noticed a new sign for that intersection, a good thing for those unaware. The MST and Little Sam portions of the trail often feel magical and ‘old’ as we wander on skinny trails amongst thick laurel and balsam. The Flat Laurel creek trail portion is flat and wider, more populated. It runs by the creek sometimes but when we were there, parts of the creek were very low and appeared dry due to the drought. The walk back to the cars will likely be partially in the sun but not for very long.

HIKEREPORT: We managed to get this hike done within a weather window yesterday. I convinced three hikers to get up earlier and we were on the trail by 7:50 with just a minimum of grumbling. It was also collectively decided we would skip the jog over to Devil’s Courthouse to save time as there were tstorms forecast between 12 and 1:00. The woods and trail were wet but that didn’t deter from our enjoyment. It was humid of course, but the temps were in the low 60’s, not chilly but a very comfortable change from recent days. The tall rhododendrons were fully in bloom and with recent rains up there, we often saw a scattering of big, white blooms on the trail and in the dim woods reminiscent of some sort of celebration and our imaginations wandered…as we walked on the road a half mile to the cars, it began to rain, perfect timing! Thank you, intrepid hiker friends, who joined me yesterday.

Sunday No. A2603-68      Jul 19, 2026
Big Butt from Walker Knob Overlook 8:30 AM
Hike 6.0, Drive 45, 1650 ft. ascent, Rated C-A,
Lorraine Bernhardt, 828-699-8857, lsbernhardt50@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. Contact leader for reservation. This moderate in-and-out hike will be at over 5000 feet elevation. We'll take the Big Butt Trail and ascend to Point Misery, Little Butt and then to Big Butt, at just under 6000 ft. The hike goes through a northern hardwood/spruce forest with excellent views of the Black Mountains. We'll hope to see an abundance of blooming Turk's cap lilies and perhaps a few ripe wild blueberries. This hike is #86 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Montreat

SCOUTREPORT: We had an unusually cool and clear day, perfect for hiking. As Donna and I started on the MST, we heard the sound of weed trimmers off in the distance and soon realized that the trails were overgrown and in bad need of maintenance. We waded through the tall grasses and came upon the first two trail maintainers. It was wonderful to pass through the area they had just cut back. We continued on and I was having thoughts of turning around. We came upon another trail maintainer (CMC), and he chatted with us for a bit. I thanked him profusely as this was such a good example of how much we depend upon their volunteer work. We continued on and missed the trail to Big Butt as we were carefully watching our feet. My All trails beeped at me and we found the trail, grown over. This slowed us down substantially. After lunch at Big Butt, we went down and still found the CMC maintainer hard at work. His goal was to get to the steps. Much to our relief, he said the rest of the way had been finished so our trip back was much easier. Again, without the trail maintainers, hiking would be an exercise in perseverance instead of the enjoyment we take for granted.

HIKEREPORT: It was a cooler day but few views due to cloud cover. The trail was nicely maintained. We welcomed several new CMC guests on this hike. Rain started shortly after lunch but did not last long. There were still Turk's cap lilies along the trail. Great conversations!

Saturday No. A2603-242      (canceled)      Jul 25, 2026
Sam Knob - Devils Courthouse 8:30 AM
Hike 8.4, Drive 60, 1800 ft. ascent, Rated B-A, P400,SB6K
Judy Magura, 828-579-0321, quilter290@gmail.com and Jim Magura, 828-579-1099, jqs290@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26. Contact leader via email for reservation. This hike in the cool high elevations is perfect for a hot summer day. We will park along the side of FS 816 where the MST crosses and we will hike up to Black Balsam Knob, a SB6K peak, then down to a parking lot and over to Sam Knob. After we ascend Sam Knob with its 360-degree views, we will return via the same trail. We will continue the hike through high meadows on the Flat Laurel and Little Sam Trails. If the timing works out, we can have lunch and dangle our feet in the creek. After lunch, we will take a side trail to Devils Courthouse and then back to the MST. We will return via the MST to FS 816 and our cars. This hike is #53 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Sam Knob

SCOUTREPORT: Jim, David, Dianne and I scouted this hike Friday July 17. We started the hike on the MST off FS816 toward Black Balsam, then went down a side trail down to the parking lot and over to Sam’s Knob. Since we had storms predicted for the afternoon we by passed Sam Knob. We continued on to the Laurel Creek crossing with dry feet. We continued toward Devils Couthouse via Littke Sam Trail. Some of the trail shows erosion from Hurricane Helene and subsequent storms . The trail is doable but we took our time on the wet rocks. We enjoyed great views from Devils Courthouse. Our return to FS816 was met with a lot of overgrowth but we managed to get through it and find our way through the beautiful dark Spruce

Sunday No. A2603-117      (canceled)      Aug 02, 2026
Craggy Dome from Walker Knob Overlook 8:00 AM
Hike 8.5, Drive 45, 2300 ft. ascent, Rated B-AA, SB6K
Marie Chamberlin, 678-492-6718, marie.m.chamberlin@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. **Canceled due to illness.** Contact leader by email for reservation. Limit of 12 hikers. We will hike the MST over a section with great views to Graybeard Overlook for our lunch stop. Hikers wishing to peakbag Craggy Dome (at 6080 ft.) may hike up and back at this time. The climb up Craggy Dome will be on a rough, unmaintained trail and will add another mile of hiking and 400 feet of ascent. We return to our cars on the same trail. This fills the requirement for both the SB6K and hike #85 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Montreat

SCOUTREPORT: I scouted this hike on Wed. July 29 with Karen S and Diane S. I will lead this hike on Sunday Aug 2, as I was out of town on July 26, the originally scheduled date for this hike. This hike is the same as CMC#464 which I co-led with Kay H 3 years ago, except this hike #117 includes an additional .8 miles to include climbing to the top of Craggy Dome (6079'). We drove through some thick fog to reach Walker Knob Overlook. But the cooler temperatures here felt refreshing. Trail maintainers had been weed whacking on the MST recently and the trail was in great shape. It undulates up and down quite a bit. We stopped briefly at lunch rock for a snack. Shortly past the Graybeard Overlook we turned left on to the unmaintained small trail up to Craggy Dome. Unlike the MST, no maintenance has been performed on this trail. It is difficult to navigate with plants overtaking the trail and some very high step ups. We turned around about 100' from the tippy top when the encroachment of the plants became extreme. I will not be leading folks up to Craggy Dome on Sunday. We will hike just to Graybeard Overlook and return. Some things to note: because of heavy rain last night, the trail between Graybeard Overlook and Glassmine Falls Overlook was very wet in places. My trail runner shoes became completely wet. Also because of the rain, Glassmine Falls had water in it! We saw Turks Cap lilies and ghost pipes. And also a short section of tree trunk trimmed to look like a pig. Although we walked through fog and clouds all morning, we had a clear view of the Falls in the afternoon on our return. The hike, including Craggy Dome and our breaks, took us over 6 1/2 hours.

Sunday No. A2603-941      (canceled)      Aug 02, 2026
Standing Indian Loop 8:00 AM
Hike 9.6, Drive 160, 1400 ft. ascent, Rated A-B,
Thomas Butler, 361-484-3381, butler.tom3381@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler.
Second Meeting Place: Waynesville Publix parking lot east end off Exit 102 of US 23/74 at 8:30 AM
Contact leader by email for reservation. Form carpools and meet leader at second meeting place. This hike will begin at the Backcountry Information Center of Standing Indian Campground. We will hike alongside the scenic Nantahala River, then turn uphill along and occasionally crossing Park Creek to Penland Gap. We'll return on the ridgeline on Park Ridge Trail. There are several minor creek crossings on the Park Creek section, one of which may require a shallow step in water if there has been heavy rain.

SCOUTREPORT: Hike had to be canceled because of blowdowns from recent storms.

Friday No. A2603-775      Aug 07, 2026
Camporee 2026 at Appletree Group Campground 9:00 AM
Rated C-C, Jeff Wilcox, 828-989-8755, jwilcox@unca.edu

**No Meeting Place Selected
Gather with other CMC members August 7-9, for a weekend of fun and fellowship at the Appletree Campground (2425 Junaluska Rd., Topton, NC). We have a large group site reserved with a fire pit, covered pavilion, running water (flush toilets) and a bathhouse (warm showers!). We plan to offer a variety of hikes (and lengths) on Saturday and Sunday along the Bartram Trail (which runs through the campground) and nearby Appalachian Trail. The cost is $10/person to offset the cost of the group site (regardless of how many nights you plan to camp). To reserve your spot, or if you can lead a hike, please contact Jeff Wilcox at 828-989-8755 or jwilcox@unca.edu. If you'd like to join us but aren't quite up to camping, there are several cabin/Airbnb options in the area, as well as a few hotels in nearby Andrews (about 20 minutes away).

Saturday No. A2603-369      (canceled)      Aug 08, 2026
Buckeye Gap (Rough Butt O/L) - Bearpen Gap 9:30 AM
Hike 6.0, Drive 80, 600 ft. ascent, Rated C-C, AT_MST, P400
Marcia Bromberg, 860-798-9905, mwbromberg@yahoo.com
Only Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler. *Canceled due to leader's injury.* Contact leader by email for reservation. Limit of 12 hikers. Hike way up high to escape the August heat. This hike includes deep woods, great views and late summer wildflowers, with a side trip to the end of Charlie's Bald and blueberry picking. There is a section with steep, rocky downhill steps so hiking poles are recommended. Two-mile car shuttle.
Topo(s): Sam Knob

Sunday No. A2603-249      Aug 09, 2026
Buckeye Gap Trail and Sunburst 8:00 AM
Hike 9.0, Drive 70, 400 ft. ascent, Rated B-C, Wilderness hike, limited to ten hikers, contact leader for reservation. P400
Henry Kassell, 845-656-5528, hkassell@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Home Depot off Exit 44 of I-40. Contact leader by email for reservation. This variation of hike #249 will be a full traverse of the Buckeye Gap Trail with a 2200 foot descent. We'll hike the Buckeye Gap Trail downhill in the Middle Prong Wilderness to the river crossing. We'll cross over the river to the continuation of the Haywood Gap Trail and then hike out to Sunburst. Note: This hike can be tougher than it appears, with a steep downhill and a wet crossing of the Middle Prong. Hiking poles are recommended. Car Shuttle.
Topo(s): Sam Knob

SCOUTREPORT: Cheow and I scouted the tail end of my Sunday hike from Rough Butt OL to Sunburst. The purpose was to see the water level of the wet crossing, it was shallow, so even with a little rain before the hike it will be an easy crossing. We hiked up FSR 97 to the buckeye trail and the final mile into the Middle Prong. RT 6.3 Miles.

HIKEREPORT: Thre Hikers joined me for this 9-mile hike. Rain was forecasted for late in the day and light rain fell as we approached the truck at the end. The Buckeye Gap Trail with the MST approach from Rough Butt OL is a beautiful walk . Someday I may down climb to Buckeye Falls. The last mile ( below the Lumber Camp Site) gets a bit steep and the trail creep is severe in places. Upon reaching the Haywood Gap Tail we went left for a ways so Karen could complete her P400 requirement. We then reversed and headed down to the wet crossing where we had our lunch. I cleared the spider webs for everyone. After lunch we completed the last 3 miles to Sunburst. (.3 miles, 2200' descent.

Sunday No. A2603-267      Aug 16, 2026
Horsepasture River 8:00 AM
Hike 8.0, Drive 60, 1000 ft. ascent, Rated B-C, WC100
Thomas Butler, 361-484-3381, butler.tom3381@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26. Contact leader by email for reservation. Form carpools and meet leader at second meeting place. Come to see the Gorges State Park area. We will hike upstream alongside the Horsepasture River to see the waterfalls – Rainbow, Turtleback, Drift and Stairway. This is as good as it gets, all top-rated waterfalls and all entirely different. Several swimming breaks will be taken. This hike is #13 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Reid

SCOUTREPORT: Hot and humid day with less waterflow in spite of recent rains. I hiked up to Stairway, Rainbow, Turtleback and Drift falls, which is as far as one can go before reaching private property. The trail is moderately steep, with quite a few steps and mud in some places. There is also one fairly wide stream crossing that can be easily rock-hopped. Before returning to the parking lot, I took the Raymond Fisher trail to view the very interesting pond and site of a decommissioned backcountry campsite, then back to the car. Approximately 6 miles, not the 8 posted.

HIKEREPORT: Great hike, as usual. We climbed up the Rainbow Falls trail, viewing Rainbow, Turtleback and Drift falls along the way. We did see small rainbows and folks sliding down Turtleback. On the way back we took the side trail to the pond before returning to our cars. 6 miles total.

Saturday No. A2603-343      Aug 22, 2026
Mount Mitchell Loop via Commissary Ridge 8:30 AM
Hike 7.0, Drive 65, 1500 ft. ascent, Rated B-B, SB6K
Judy Magura, 828-579-0321, quilter290@gmail.com and Jim Magura, 828-579-1099, jqs290@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. Contact leader via email for reservation. We will hike from the Ranger Station at Stepps Gap to the Mt. Mitchell summit via the Old Mitchell Trail, where we'll enjoy the view from the observation platform. Hiking down from the summit, we will take the Mt. Mitchell Trail/MST through moss-covered pine forest and return on the Commissary Ridge Trail. Expect grand views, beautiful forest scenery and (hopefully) flush toilets. This hike is #88 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Mt. Mitchell

SCOUTREPORT: We, David Angelus, Dianne Bienick, Jim and I, scouted this hike Wednesday July 1. This hike proved to be a good reason for scouting. We decided to reverse the hike by going up Commissary Ridge Trail. This trail is fine. After we had lunch at the top we ventured down via the Mt Mitchell trail. There was a confusing sign that said the trail was closed to Alice Camp. We ventured on but the trail was in horrible condition. One observation was the beautiful fairly new three sets of stairs. The trip ended short just before the restaurant. We took the road the rest of the way to our car at the ranger station.

HIKEREPORT:

Sunday No. A2603-203      Aug 23, 2026
Tanyard Gap to Lovers Leap and Return 8:00 AM
Hike 8.5, Drive 60, 2200 ft. ascent, Rated B-AA, AT_MST
Victor Zona, 248-767-2651, victor.zona@sbcglobal.net
Only Meeting Place: 160 Zillicoa St. (USFS parking lot) off Exit 25 of I-26. Contact leader by email for reservation. Limit of 10 hikers. This hike will be a moderate loop in the Hot Springs area. Starting from Tanyard Gap, we will follow the Appalachian Trail southbound to the intersection with the Lovers Leap Trail and proceed to the old Silvermine Group Camp. Continuing on the Pump Gap Trail, we'll then head back to the A.T. to return to our cars.
Topo(s): Hot Springs

SCOUTREPORT: A group of 12 hikers from the Pisgah Hiking group helped me to scout this loop. It's always a good day when you are out in nature, even though the temperature was a bit on the warm side. There was a slight breeze that helped cool us down. The Pump Gap and AT trails are in great shape with a couple of very small stream crossings (rock hops). There are several views from the French Board River side of the AT as your hike toward Lover's Leap. The hike was close to 9 miles with 1,955 feet of elevation gain. Hiking time was 3 hours 40 minutes, total time was 4 hours 30 minutes.

HIKEREPORT: Nine hikers had near perfect day for this hike. It was a sunny day with temperatures hovering around the mid 70° mark and an occasional refreshing breeze. The hike started at Tanyard Gap then along the AT, which provided us with several views of the French Broad River. Our lunch spot was Lovers Leap, overlooking the town of Hot Springs. The return trip was along the Pump Gap trail to the AT (northbound) back to our cars at Tanyard Gap. Total distance was 9.25 miles with about 2,000 feet of elevation gain.

Sunday No. A2603-241      Aug 30, 2026
Mt. Kephart via Sweat Heifer Creek Trail 8:00 AM
Hike 12.8, Drive 140, 2000 ft. ascent, Rated AA-AA, SB6K
Michael Cornn, 828-458-1281, mwcornn@gmail.com and Kathy Cornn/Kyle, 828-458-1282, katherinenkyle@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler. Contact the hike leader by email for reservation. Limit of 10 hikers. This hike is designed to visit two of the best scenic overlooks in the Smokies, The Jumpoff and Charlies Bunion, and to climb Mt. Kephart (6217 ft.). From Newfound Gap, we will hike on the A.T. to Mt. Kephart and The Jumpoff, and from there to Charlies Bunion. After lunch, we will return via the A.T., and then down the Sweat Heifer Creek and Kephart Prong Trails. Car shuttle. Note: A parking pass for each vehicle is required in GSMNP. For more info: http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm.
Topo(s): Mt Le Conte,Mt. Guyot,Smokemont

SCOUTREPORT: I scouted this hike, along with Tom Butler, on Wednesday, September 19, 2026, which was a cool, beautiful day in the Smokies. I am not sure that I have ever seen a clearer day in the Park during the summer. The hike itself consists of two different parts. The first part of the hike utilizes the Appalachian Trail and the Boulevard Trail to access the summit of Mount Kephart (which is more than 6,000 feet high), the Jump Off, and Charlie’s Bunion (the tourist version). As you can see from the attached photos, the Jump Off and Charlie’s Bunion provide two of the best views available in the Park. The Appalachian Trail, in particular, is both well-maintained and heavily used, so we can expect a lot of company during this part of our hike. The second part of the hike, which is almost six miles in length, involves a steady descent from the Appalachian Trail to Highway 441. The initial part of the descent utilizes the Sweat Heifer Trail, which, while in generally good condition, is occasionally overgrown, has a very narrow surface in a few places, and has a few blowdowns. On the Sweat Heifer Trail, one passes a couple of nice small waterfalls, the second of which provides a good place for a rest break. After the Sweat Heifer Trail reaches the Kephart Shelter, we will travel the rest of the way to Highway 441 on the Kephart Prong Trail, which is essentially an old roadbed along the side of scenic Kephart Prong Creek. As the trail nears Highway 441, the hiker passes through the remnants of an old Civilian Conservation Corps camp. The hike, while a very beautiful one, is long and will take all day to complete. For that reason, you should not expect to be back at your car before late afternoon. In addition, the hike involves a car shuttle. - Jim Ervin

HIKEREPORT: Six hikers trekked 12.8 miles in the Smokies, bagging two peaks over 5,000 feet (Mt. Kephart and The Jump Off) and one over 6,000 feet (Charlie’s Bunion) with 2,000 feet of ascent. The route featured snacks on The Jump Off and lunch on Charlie’s Bunion, followed by a steady, nearly 4,000-foot descent over six miles down the Sweat Heifer Trail past waterfalls, an abandoned CCC camp, and the roar of invisible katydids. Near the start of the trail, the group encountered search and rescue teams in lime green shirts looking for Marcin Bachleda Blaszczak, an Illinois resident missing since August 24 whose car was found at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Under perfect weather conditions, the group finished the grueling 12.8-mile trek just after 5 PM upon reaching Highway 441. Following the car shuttle to Newfound Gap, the leaders headed straight to El Cajelito in Cherokee for Mexican food before setting up their tent just before dark at Black Balsam Campground, while the rest of the hikers returned to Asheville. It was another beautiful outing with the Carolina Mountain Club (CMC), and everyone made it back safely.

Sunday No. A2603-464      Sep 06, 2026
Graybeard Overlook to Walker Knob Overlook on the MST 8:00 AM
Hike 8.0, Drive 45, 2000 ft. ascent, Rated B-AA, AT_MST
Eva Blinder, 828-275-6447, ejb5711@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. Contact leader by email for reservation. This is a modification of hike #464. We will start from Graybeard Overlook and hike on the MST towards Walker Knob Overlook. We will hike through a range of environments and landscapes, including rocky trail sections that require good footwear and hiking poles. We will go through a lovely beech forest and sweeping native grasses, over open blueberry balds with long-range views, and alpine vegetation through old hemlock and lichen-covered oak forest. We will return on the same trail. This hike is #85 of the 100 Favorite Trails.
Topo(s): Montreat

SCOUTREPORT: A friend and I scouted this hike today (Sunday, October 30) and found trail conditions overall excellent. The section between Glassmine Falls Overlook (at about the 2.5 mile mark) and Walker Knob Overlook, our turnaround point for this out-and-back hike, includes an old, steep staircase in so-so condition, but this is unchanged since I last hiked it before Hurricane Helene. The ascent is about equal in both directions, and there are some fairly long sustained uphills. Total distance is about 7.6 miles with a total ascent of 2250 feet. There are several nice views if the day is sunny.

HIKEREPORT: Two hikers joined me on this out-and-back hike on the MST. The weather was mostly cooperative despite a few light showers around noon, and distant thunder after lunch. But the morning fog lifted and we had decent views in several places, particularly our lunch spot at the Glassmine Falls overlook. While the total distance is only 7.6 miles, the ascent of more than 2000 feet makees this a strenuous hike.

Saturday No. A2603-256      (canceled)      Sep 12, 2026
Moore Cove Falls 9:30 AM
Hike 7.0, Drive 65, 1050 ft. ascent, Rated B-B, P400,WC100
Henry Kassell, 845-656-5528, hkassell@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26.
Second Meeting Place: Pisgah Forest Walmart parking (back of center aisles close to Taco Bell) at 10:00 AM
*Canceled due to trail conditions.* Contact leader by email for reservation. This moderate double-loop trail follows two overgrown USFS paths. Expect a lot of scrambling over blowdowns, a couple of short, steep sections and two minor creek crossings. There is one good view of Looking Glass Rock and several waterfalls.
Topo(s): Shining Rock

SCOUTREPORT: Tom Butler and I scouted this entire hike. and to our disappointment it isnt possible to safely hike this route. Much of the loop is closed in with dog hobble and laurel. That is the easy part. Beyond the crossover of the figure 8 at least 50% of the final 3 miles is frustratingly strewn with blowdowns and deadfalls. Some of them on 45-degree slopes. In the last mile of the hike we lost the trail entirely and dropped down to Rte 276 and walked back on the rd. So...the alternate hike for September 12th will be: Turkey Pen Ramble. hike #321 in the data base. 6 miles. This will include parts of S. Mills River trail, Bradley Creek, And Pounding Mill, Squirrell Gap, and Mullinax...depending, This hike will include at least two wet crossings of the S. Mills River. and others depending on the rte.

Saturday No. A2603-321      (canceled)      Sep 12, 2026
Turkey Pen Ramble 9:30 AM
Hike 6.0, Drive 70, 300 ft. ascent, Rated C-C,
Henry Kassell, 845-656-5528, hkassell@gmail.com
First Meeting Place: Tanger Outlets parking lot behind Waffle House off Exit 33 of I-26.
Second Meeting Place: Turkey Pen parking lot at 10:00 AM - but contact leader first.
*Hike canceled due to weather.* Contact the hike leader for reservation. Stretch your legs on a loop including parts of the South Mills River, Bradley Creek, Pounding Mill, Squirrel Gap, and Mullinax Trails. This hike will include at least two wet crossings of the South Mills River and others depending on the route. It is recommended that only high clearance vehicles make the drive on Turkey Pen Rd.

Sunday No. A2603-488      (canceled)      Sep 13, 2026
Gabes Mountain Trail 8:00 AM
Hike 8.3, Drive 130, 1800 ft. ascent, Rated B-A,
Karen Lachow, 703-395-5879, heyk127@hotmail.com
First Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler.
Second Meeting Place: Canton Park-n-Ride lot off Exit 33 of I-40 at 8:15 AM
*Hike canceled due to leader's car not being drivable.* :-( 900M Contact leader by email for reservation. Limit of 10 hikers. This hike will follow a mostly gentle trail from the Cosby Campground to Maddron Bald trailhead through open old-growth forest. Added attractions are a short, steep side trip to the bottom of Hen Wallow Falls, lunch at a shady, streamside campsite and a visit to the restored Baxter cabin. Four-mile car shuttle. This hike is in the Smokies and all cars require a parking pass. For more information: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm.
Topo(s): Luftee Knob,Mt. Guyot

SCOUTREPORT: I scouted this hike with Donna L. and Danny B on Friday, 9/4. We dropped a car at the trail end which is along a narrow road with very limited parking. We drove 10 minutes to the trailhead at the Cosby Campground, a large parking area with a bathroom. We began hiking at 10:06am on an already too warm and humid day. The first half of the hike is a constant uphill and we were sweating pretty quickly. There are three log bridges early on, then many small creek crossings. The hike is all through very lush woods; no views but lots of colorful fungi. We hiked down to Hen Wallow Falls which had a good stream despite no recent rain. We saw a few other people here but almost no one once past the Falls. Greenbrier Creek has no bridge but was low and easy to cross. It could be a wet crossing if there is considerable rain. We stopped to eat lunch, very late at 2:00pm, at the half-way point by Campground 34 which is closed due to bear activity. Back on the trail, we heard a crack and then watched as a tree up the slope fell down, stopping us in our tracks. We continued only after being sure nothing was falling onto the trail. The second half had more flowers and better tread. The last section on Maddron Bald Trail is a very wide, forest road. We stopped to look at an old stone wall and Baxter Cabin which is under renovation so we couldn't go inside. We got to the trail end at 4:10pm. I tracked the hike at 8.5 miles with 1444 feet ascent and 1759 descent. With the shuttle and a 1:25 drive each way from Asheville, this makes for a very long day. We arrived back at the Food Lion at 6:18pm.

Sunday No. A2603-642      Sep 20, 2026
Smokemont Loop 8:30 AM
Hike 8.0, Drive 110, 1300 ft. ascent, Rated B-B,
Danny Bernstein, 828-450-0747, dannyhiker@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler. 900M Contact leader for reservation. We will hike the Smokemont Loop Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We will go clockwise, starting in the Smokemont Campground and climbing steadily up Richland Mountain before descending to Bradley Fork. The Bradley Fork Trail follows the water along an old roadbed. We will take an in-and-out detour up the Chasteen Creek Trail to the cascade before returning and continuing down the Bradley Fork Trail to the cars at Smokemont. This hike is #28 of the 100 Favorite Trails. This hike is in the Smokies and all cars require a parking pass. For more information: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm.
Topo(s): Smokemont

SCOUTREPORT: The Smokemont loop in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a classic. It has a cemetery, lots of water including Bradley Fork and a waterfall at Chasteen Creek. We’ll have a snack at the top of the hill and lunch at the waterfall. The last part of the hike takes us across a bridge and up Chasteen Creek Trail where we may see horses. Come on out.

Saturday No. A2603-2      Sep 26, 2026
NC 128 to Walker Knob Overlook on the MST 8:30 AM
Hike 5.0, Drive 60, 1500 ft. ascent, Rated C-B, AT_MST, SB6K
Becky Smucker, 828-231-2198, bjsmucker@gmail.com
Only Meeting Place: Back parking lot of Folk Art Center. Contact leader by email for reservation. This hike in the high country on the Mountains-to-Sea-Trail near Mount Mitchell features great views, rocky climbs, spruce forests and 6320-ft. Blackstock Knob. The hike has difficult downhills, and challenging footwork due to storm damage, but there are wide-open views that are new. If the weather is in our favor, we will first drive to the Mt. Mitchell summit parking and do the steep, paved quarter-mile hike to the observation deck for 360-degree views. Car shuttle.
Topo(s): Montreat

Sunday No. A2603-938      Sep 27, 2026
Waterrock Knob to The Pinnacle 8:00 AM
Hike 9.0, Drive 90, 1500 ft. ascent, Rated B-B, SB6K
Mike Knies, 828-253-6114, knies06@att.net
First Meeting Place: Food Lion - 35 Westridge Market Pl. Candler.
Second Meeting Place: Haywood County Rest Area 19500 Great Smoky Mtn. Expy. (US 23/74) Waynesville NC at 8:30 AM - but contact leader first.
Contact leader by email for reservation. This hike will begin from the Waterrock Knob lower parking lot and continue along a rough trail, passing Yellow Face and mega rock formations, and on to the spectacular view from Blackrock Mtn. From there we will descend a bit and then hike out to even more spectacular views of craggy Pinnacle Park. We will then backtrack a short distance before descending steeply to our vehicles at the Fisher Creek trailhead. 30-minute car shuttle.