What we’re about
Our group organizes and participates in hikes and outdoor activities covering the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and East Tennessee Parks, National Forests, and other venues as suggested by members. This group is based out of the Knoxville, TN area, but have members from all across the U.S.
We plan and organize hikes and adventures (including backpacking, bike rides, canoe and kayak trips, indoor rock climbing, instructive clinics, family-friendly events, and group cookouts) throughout the year. As the weather gets warmer, we do organize some evening moonlight walks, bike rides, or hikes as an alternative to the day hikes.
And if you enjoy backcountry camping, we do that also, but the spaces on those usually fill up fast due to backcountry permit availability. We have two or three 'Hike and Camp' weekend events every year in one of the Park's campgrounds so all members have an opportunity to mix and mingle.
We are an open venue, with suggestions for events from light to strenuous hikes, recommended from any members of the group. Any member is more than welcome to suggest an outing to an Organizer, who will help with the planning if it's approved.
We've found the Smokies to be a wonderful place to exercise, stay in shape, appreciate nature, and meet great new people with similar interests.
We have a lot of fun, so join up!!!
Lane DeCost
GSHAG Organizer
Upcoming events
1
Winter Hiking - Low Gap-Snake Den Loop - 13 Miles +/-4100' - Strenuous
Cosby Picnic Area Parking B, Cosby Entrance Rd, Cosby, tn, US.
*** PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE POSTING BEFORE SIGNING UP ***QUALIFICATIONS
You should be comfortable hiking a 2.0-3.0 mph average pace with 3000+ feet of elevation change over 8-10 miles.OVERVIEW
This Strenuous level 13-mile hike is for seasoned hikers who can handle some serious elevation change at over 4000' of cumulative gain, at a 500-700 feet-per-mile slope.Don't underestimate how strenuous this will be if you have not made similar climbs in the past.
DETAILS
Low Gap 2 - Snake Den Ridge Loop +/-4000' - 13+ Miles - StrenuousHikers will head south-east on the LG approach trail before climbing about 3 miles and 2000' (700 fpm) up to the junction with the AT. We'll then turn SW, and then W, and climb another 700'+ over another mile or so, before dipping back down 300' to the Camel Gap junction on the AT. Then it's another 2.5+ mile climb of 1100' to the AT junction with Snake Den Ridge. Then we'll begin a loooong descent of 3500' over the next 6 miles, at 600 fpm back to the parking lot.
The hike is not particularly technical, but it is very steep at both ends, with numerous rocky/rooty sections that require your full attention. Hikers should be off trail by 4:30-5:00.
IMPORTANT WEATHER INFORMATION
If temps are below 40 with rain (hypothermia zone) or there is more than 6" of snow on the trail, we will likely reschedule the hike.WHAT TO BRING
Bring a day bag, with at least one liter of water, plenty of snacks, and an extra insulation layer, gloves and a hat. We'll go rain or shine (and it IS the Smokies), so rain gear is also advised.** Given the early sunset, we would emphasize bringing a headlamp in case we are delayed for some reason. **
We always suggest carrying the 14 Essentials when going onto the woods. You can download a pdf file here that discusses these essentials.
LATECOMERS AND NO-SHOWS
It's important for everyone to be early, or at least on time. We would hate to leave a hiker behind because they are running late. (It happens)If your plans change and you can't come on the hike, please remember to change your RSVP at least an hour before the event begins, so you don't wind up on my "No-Fly" list.
*** Failure to do so qualifies as a "No-Show" with me and you may not be allowed to join future hikes or backpacking trips. ***
NAVIGATION AIDS
Location of the Meeting PlaceLow Gap-Snake Den Map
Low Gap-Snake Den ProfileLG-SDR Hikes GPS (.gpx) file [download only]
DISCLAIMER
By signing up for this event you affirm that you understand this disclaimer and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the Organizers of this Meetup group.
Full DisclaimerEVENT LEADER
Lane DeCost - 900 Miler x4 / AT 2000 Miler-2023 / Search and Rescue team volunteer8 attendees
Past events
2178
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