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- Wildflowers, Butterflies and Fodder StackThe Bluffs, Laurel Springs, NC
Description - Join ASTA for a hike from the Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center to Fodderstack Trail. We will walk through the wildflower fields on the way and stop to admire the Liatris, Coreopsis and butterflies. Fodderstack Trail is passed the Lodge and near Wildcat Rocks. This is 1 mile each way, out and back. The trail is a bit rough in the beginning due to washouts. Sticks might be helpful. We will meet at the Bluffs Restaurant/Visitors Center.
Consider having a meal or snack at the Bluffs Restaurant after the hike, they are open 11-4.
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. Total distance will be less than 3 miles. We will take our time around the flower fields.
Emergency Contact Info: Please complete the attached Member and Emergency Contact Information Form so we have your emergency information; we can also send you information about how to put this info on your phone.
ASTA Member and Emergency Contact InformationACCESS NOTE: We will meet at the Bluffs Restaurant Parking lot on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Alleghany County, NC. A google map link to the parking lot is attached. A link to the Blue Ridge Parkway and a link to the NPS Doughton Park map are also attached**. Access is via Route 21.**
Google Maps - Bluffs Restaurant & Visitor Center
Maps - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
Doughton Park Hiking Trails - Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
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 home page before the event to see if conditions have changed, we will try to update event status as timely as practical. Rain gear is always recommended for your pack.
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. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome.
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.
