Graybeard Falls -- 6 mi, 1,200 ft. gain

The Mt. Graybeard Trail is one of my favorites in the area. We’ll do an out-and-back, 3.1 miles each way. There's a clearing by Graybeard Falls where we'll take a little rest before heading back down.

It’s mostly uphill to the turnaround point, with a lot of rocks and roots. There's no rock scrambling, but plenty of up-and-down stepping. If you ever use hiking poles, they'd be useful here. Be ready for a trio of stream crossings. Usually -- but not always -- they're crossable without getting your feet dipped. The trail can be muddy in parts, too. Yes, this hike can be a bit sloppy, but it's worth it!

Because of the long uphill segment and the slightly nasty footing (roots and fist-sized rocks), I’m giving this a solid 5.0 difficulty level on a 10-point scale.

Wear good hiking shoes, bring some water and a little snack if so inclined.

Dog Policy: Dogs are extremely welcome but must be leashed.

Guest Policy: If you'd like to bring a guest, they should join the Asheville Hiking Group and sign up for the hike on their own. Alternatively, contact me in advance and ask if it's okay to bring a "+1" after you've made it onto the "Going" list. Depending on timing and demand, I MAY be able to add your guest.

MEET-UP TIME & PLACE
Parking at the trailhead is extremely tight, so we will need to carpool. We'll meet promptly by 8:45 AM at the Black Mountain Ingles, Exit 64 off I-40. (Not the Ingles on US-70.) We’ll gather at the north end of the Ingles parking lot near Mcdonald's (but not in their lot). Look for my car, a blue Audi sedan.

The Ingles address is 550 NC-9, Black Mountain. Mcdonald's is to the right as you enter the lot from Rt. 9.

On Google Maps: https://bit.ly/3TLR4yG

It’s a 15-minute drive from Ingles to the Graybeard Trailhead, so we can expect to arrive at the trailhead at 9:00 or soon thereafter.

COURTESY TO WAIT-LISTERS (Please?!!)
Only sign up if you *truly* plan to come. If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible so wait-listers can have sufficient notice. And please please PLEASE don't be a no-show.

If you're on the waiting list, keep checking through the evening before the hike. We often get last-minute dropouts. Also, if you know at some point that you won't be able to attend even if someone drops out, please remove yourself from the waiting list.

WEATHER
I'll watch the weather and post a cancellation message by 7:30 AM if the forecast is >50% chance of precipitation.

QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, message me through MeetUp until 8:15 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: (803) 767-3094.

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.