The Asheville Hiking Group

DESCRiPTION
Update - I might change this hike, if the weather forecast continues to look good, to be a one way of the upper half of the Shut-In requiring a shuttle between the two end points. I need to do a little scouting to check things out but it would be roughly the same mileage and elevation. It is on my list to do the full Shut-In trail sometime in the next few weeks and this would be a good build up to it. I will update Saturday but sign up Friday at 5 if you are willing to do either one.

This is an out and back along the MST from Beaver Gap Overlook to Elk Pasture Gap at about 8.5 miles and 1700 ft of elevation gain. The weather isn't looking great for Monday but we should be able to do this in light rain if needed. I like to go about 2.7 mph so please make sure this hike is within your capabilities before signing up. This hike starts at 10:00 but remember your body will tell you it is 9:00. Signup opens at 5pm on Friday and I am going to cap this hike at 15

CARPOOL
We will meet at the Asheville Outlets at 9:30 behind the Waffle House. Please be there a little early so we can leave at 9:40. We will plan to start hiking at 10:00 at the trailhead. Please let me know via message or text if you plan to go directly to the trailhead.

WEATHER
I'll watch the weather and post a cancellation message by 7:30 AM as needed.

QUESTIONS?
You can message me through MeetUp until 9:30 AM the day of. Cell reception may be sketchy, but you can try to text or call me up to the start of the hike: (508) 965-2333.

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 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 assure your safety nor eliminate all risks. Participants assume full responsibility for any injuries, damages, or losses.

This will be an in and out hike on the Shut-In trail. The entire Shut-In trail is 16.5 miles but we will only be doing 5, 5 miles in to Sleepy Gap on the Blue Ridge Parkway where we'll break for lunch. Then we'll turn around and come back the same way.

We'll meet at the Bent Creek River Park (35.5020, -82.5932) at 9:15 for a 9:30 sharp start. I'll be at the Ingles in Mills River between Ace Hardware and the Ingles gas pumps at 8:45 for anyone that wants to car pool. I'll be leaving right at 9:00.

Dog's are welcome. I will have my dog with me.