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

[Sign-up opens Sunday, Feb. 1st at 8 PM]

The Mt. Graybeard Trail is a favorite of many, myself included. We’ll do an out-and-back, around 3.1 miles up, then the same coming back. There's a clearing by Graybeard Falls where we'll take a little break before heading down.

Because of the long uphill segment and lots of heads-down walking over roots & rocks, I’m giving this a solid 5.0 difficulty level on a 10-point scale. We'll move at a fairly good pace, averaging around 2.3 mph. Parts of the uphill are definitely not in the "easy" category, so if you're a first-timer and unsure if you're good with 1,000'+ elevation gains, it's best not to attend this one and risk holding back the group.

If you ever use hiking poles, they'd be useful here. Prepare for a trio of stream crossings with some potential rock-hopping depending on water levels. The trail can be muddy in parts, too. Yes, this hike can be a bit sloppy, but it's worth it!

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

Dog Policy: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.

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

MEET-UP TIME & PLACE

Parking at the trailhead is very tight, so carpooling is a must. Let's meet promptly by 9:30 AM at the Black Mountain Ingles at 550 Route NC-9. It's near Exit 64 off I-40. We’ll gather at the north end of the Ingles parking lot toward McDonald's (but not in the McD's lot), which is toward the right when you enter the Ingles lot. Look for my car, a silver Hyundai sedan.

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

We'll organize into several vehicles and then drive 15-minutes to the Graybeard Trailhead.

COURTESY TO WAIT-LISTERS
Only sign up if you definitely 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?
You can message me through MeetUp until 8:30 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: (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.