Sleepy Gap 5-mi., 950 ft. Elev. Gain (10-mi Option)

[Sign-up opens Sunday 9/7 @ 8:00 PM]

This is a pretty 5-mile loop with a 950' elevation gain. Several easy stream crossings, a little cardio, and a major dose of the beautiful forests we all love so well. We'll average around 2.3 mph.

Immediately following the hike, I'll lead anyone interested in a reverse version of the same hike. Combined, that would make 10 miles and 1900' elevation gain. Let me know in the comments or via direct message if you plan to come along for the second loop.

The rest of this description refers to the 5-mile version.

Difficulty level: 4. It'll be a bit strenuous in places, and you should be experienced enough to know you can handle some hills. Most of the elevation gain occurs in the 4th mile. It'll be tough if you're out of shape or not accustomed to hills.

I've pieced together segments from several trails, taking us to lovely Lake Powhatan, our halfway point. We'll take a 10-minute break there before completing the rest of the loop back to the parking lot.

The trail is fairly clear with no major steps, streams, or other hazards. Bring some water and something for a quick snack if you'd like.

Dog Policy: Dogs are welcome but should be leashed at all times.

MEETING TIME & DIRECTIONS
We'll convene by 9:00 AM at the Sleepy Gap Overlook parking lot on the Blue Ridge Parkway, mile marker 397.3. It's four miles south of the NC Arboretum. Try to come a few minutes early.

This Link takes you to Sleep Gap Parking on Google Maps.

CARPOOL OPTION
For those willing to carpool, we'll meet at the Asheville Outlets behind the Waffle House. We'll depart from there by 8:45 AM, so please come a bit early -- and also leave some extra time for morning traffic if you're coming on I-26.

This link takes you to Asheville Outlets parking on Google Maps:

COURTESY TO WAIT-LISTERS (We beg you!)
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. And please please PLEASE don't be a no-show.

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

If you have any questions, message me through MeetUp until 8:30 AM the day of the hike.

GUEST POLICY
If you'd like to bring a guest, you'll need to have them 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 demand, I may be able to add your guest.

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.