Appalachian Trail near Hot Springs. 15.5 miles (Or 9.3 option). Fitness Hike!

This is a 15.5-mile hike (Or 9.3 mile option) on the Appalachian Trail from Allen Gap, NC 208 over Rich Mtn Firetower and down into Hot Springs. Only about 3200 gain.
Being a point-to-point hike, we will have to set up a shuttle.
Meet at 9 a.m. behind the Laughing Heart hostel. There is a large AT parking lot on S. Serpentine Ave.
We can leave cars at Tanyard Gap on NC 25/70 for the 9.3-mile option AS we shuttle up to Allen Gap.
Fitness Hike. Level 10, but there is a fair amount of easy terrain as well. If you have done either of the last two Wednesday hikes, you can EASILY do this one.

Dogs: Trail-friendly dogs are welcome.

Carpool or Follow: Those who would like to ride share or follow us to the trailhead (or Tanyard Gap) can meet at Weaverville Walmart parking lot (lower level across from the Lowe's home store parking lot) and be ready to leave by 8:20 a.m. Please post where you plan to meet us

Release of Liability:
The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://www.meetup.com/terms