[RSVP opens Sunday June 29th, 8:00 pm]
This is a typical lovely hike in the Bent Creek area. The route I've cobbled together adds up to about 5 miles and a relatively mild 500' elevation gain. With the hills and moderate pace -- around 2.4 mph -- I'd rate it 2.5 on a 0-10 difficulty scale. It's not a "fitness hike," but you'll need to be able to walk up and down some hilly terrain.
We'll traverse a mishmash of trail segments and connectors, from wide gravel roads to single-file trails, mostly good footing. Around halfway through we'll find a spot for a short snack break.
Wear sensible hiking footwear. Bring some water. If you're on the fence about hiking poles, you probably don't need them for this one.
Dog Policy: Dogs are extremely welcome but must be leashed.
Guest Policy: If you'd like to bring a guest, they should join the Asheville Hiking Group and sign up for the hike on their own. Alternatively, contact me in advance and ask if it's okay to bring a "+1" after you've made it onto the "Going" list. Depending on timing and demand, I MAY be able to add your guest.
MEET-UP TIME AND PLACE
Please arrive at the Ledford Branch parking lot a few minutes early for sign-in and introductions. It may be busy, so leave some extra time in case you need to park along the access road. We'll hit the trail a.s.a.p. after 9:00 AM.
DIRECTIONS
From Exit 33 on I-26,
Head south on Brevard Rd. (Rt. 191) for 2 miles
Right at the lights on Bent Creek Ranch Rd.
After .3 miles bear left onto Wesley Branch Rd.
Go about 2 miles, past Rice Pinnacle and Hard Times Trailheads
Bear right at the fork & the sign for Ledford Branch Trailhead.
Go around 500' to the parking lot on the right.
Google Maps link
I encourage everyone to use the Comments section to arrange ride-sharing with others so that we don't overwhelm the parking lot.
COURTESY TO WAIT-LISTERS (Please abide!)
Only sign up if you *TRULY* plan to come. If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible so wait-listers will have sufficient notice. And please please PLEASE don't be a no-show.
If you're on the waiting list, keep checking the evening before. Despite what I wrote above, we always get last-minute dropouts.
WEATHER
I'll monitor National Weather Service forecasts for the hike area and email cancellation messages by 7:30 AM if the forecast is for more than a 50% chance of precipitation.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, message me through MeetUp until 8:00 AM the day of. Cell reception may be sketchy on the trail, but you can try to text or call me up to the start of the hike: (803) 767-3094.
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LEGALESE
This Asheville Hiking Group event involves hiking and, possibly, transportation to and from the meetup site. Participants are responsible for their own safety and, by joining a hike, affirm that they have the appropriate skills, physical conditioning, equipment, and supplies. Hiking may involve risks to oneself and property. Neither your hike organizer nor Asheville Hiking Group can eliminate all risks or be responsible for your well-being. Participants assume full responsibility for any injuries, damages, or losses.
