What we’re about
ASTA endeavors to provide pathways for outdoor recreation that promote healthy lifestyles and connect enthusiasts to nature. Whether it is walking, peddling, hiking, paddling or horseback riding, Alleghany County is rich with existing resources for all to experience. This Meetup group is for anyone with an interest in enjoying our outdoor resources such as the Blue Ridge Parkway, New River, the Mountains to Sea Trail (MST) Segments 5 and 6 and three existing parks in the Sparta town limits. We will coordinate group hikes and other trail related events in our local geographic area.
Events will be planned for different degrees of difficulty and length. Our pace will be moderate and tailored to fit the diverse needs of the group. Other events such as trail maintenance, trail days, paddling, peddling and others will also be posted here.
Anyone that is interested can join at no cost. Please just answer a few questions in the request to join and include a photo so we know who you are. All our events will be posted here. Our group is sponsored by the Alleghany Sparta Trail Association, check us out - http://www.spartatrails.org .
If you can't participate in our events, you can contribute in other ways or you can participate by making a donation. Please visit our website. ASTA is all-volunteer lead and is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- First Saturday Hike - Bluff Mountain Trail, Alleghany County, NCBrinegar Cabin, Traphill, NC
HIKE AND PRESENTATION DETAILS: For the summer months, the Alleghany Sparta Trail Association (ASTA) is partnering with the Bluffs Restaurant and Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation to conduct First Saturday hikes and speaker presentations that start and/or end at the Bluffs Restaurant. Everyone is encouraged to join our hike and have a meal, before or after the hike, to support the Bluffs. Please sign up for each event separately. You do not have to attend the hike to come for the presentation. Lisa Bottomley, Executive Director of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, will talk about the Foundation's Scenic Byway Grant Project and Strategic Plan as an economic driver for communities along the Parkway and beyond.
HIKE DETAILS: We will depart from Brinegar's Cabin on the Bluff Mountain/Mountains to Sea trail hiking west towards the Bluffs Restaurant. The hike will offer an abundance of great long range views and wildflowers. After passing through the Doughton Park campground, there is a moderate climb through a forest and open fields (more vistas and flowers) as the trail crosses the parkway and arrives at the Bluffs Restaurant and Visitor Center. We'll cross over the parkway again and take a short walk towards the lodge to enjoy the beauty of more wildflowers before returning to the Restaurant where lunch before the presentation is an option with a shuttle back to Brinegar afterwards. This is a 2.8 mile hike. If you are not staying for the presentation you can hike back to Brinegar (on your own).
Emergency Contact Info: Please complete the attached Member and Emergency Contact Information Form: ASTA Member and Emergency Contact Information
Difficulty: The hike is considered moderate. The pace will be around 2 to 2-1/2 MPH but will be adjusted to allow the group opportunities for observing and photos. Much of this hike will be open and could be sunny and warm - bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
ACCESS NOTE and HOW TO FIND US: We will meet at the Brinegar's Cabin Parking Lot (MP 238.5) on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Alleghany County, NC. A google map link to the overlook is attached and a link to the Blue Ridge Parkway is attached. We also use the All-Trails app for our hikes; it is recommended you download the app.
Maps - Blue Ridge Parkway Brinegar Cabin
Maps - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)SPECIAL NOTE: The Park Service is undertaking a major construction project in our area, access will only be available from NC 18 in Laurel Springs. National Park Service Road Closure and Access Information
Weather: This hike is weather dependent. If the weather forecast turns inclement, we will possibly reschedule the event for a different day and time. If it is questionable, please check back here to the event home page before the event to see if conditions have changed, we will try to update event status as timely as practical. We will update via Meetup to those people that have signed up for the event.
Other Info: You should expect roots, rocks and poor footing in some locations on the trails. To reduce the chance of a fall and for balance, a hiking pole or poles is recommended. Also, please wear shoes with good ankle support and traction. You should bring water, comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather and season (example: warm gear in cold weather and rain gear for seasonal hikes is always a good idea), a snack if desired (please pack out any trash), and during bug season a good repellant for mosquitos and ticks may be desired. Please abide by our dog policy.
Terms of Participation: Participation in this event constitutes acceptance of the terms of participation as listed for this group on its homepage. On behalf of yourself and any guest you invite, participation in our events is entirely at your own risk
