Folk Art Center to Visitor Ctr, Out-and-Back, 5.5 mi. 700ft. Elev. Gain


Details
[Signup opens Sunday Aug. 10, 8:00 PM]
These days, the popular Mountain-to-Sea Trail between the Folk Art Center and the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitors Center has been cleared of the hurricane damage seen in the photo. It's once again a lovely and relatively mild hike. There are ups and downs--not easy if you're a new hiker--but a difficulty level of about 3 out of 10 on my highly subjective scale.
We'll make a quick stop along the route to visit a couple of very nice horses who would GREATLY appreciate it if you bring them some carrots and apple slices.
Since the BRP Visitor Center is the halfway point, we'll pause there for a 15-minute break before turning back. The VC has restrooms.
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed according to Forest Service regulations.
MEETING TIME & DIRECTIONS
We'll meet at the Folk Art Center parking lot by 9:00 a.m. The entrance is well-marked near Milepost 383 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Link for Google Maps: Folk Art Center
When you turn into the entrance, you'll pass the front of the building on your right. Pass the parking lots on your left and right, and head to the furthest parking lot on the right. Look for my car, a silver Hyundai.
Again: SECOND parking lot on the right.
We'll try to set out by 9:05.
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 will have sufficient notice. (The same goes if you're on the waitlist and know you can't attend. Please switch to "Not Going.") And please please PLEASE don't be a no-show.
WEATHER
We'll watch the weather and post a cancellation message by 7:30 AM if the forecast is for >50% chance of precipitation.
GUESTS
If you'd like to bring a guest, please have them join the Asheville Hiking Group and sign up for the hike on their own.
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.

Folk Art Center to Visitor Ctr, Out-and-Back, 5.5 mi. 700ft. Elev. Gain