Hike - Cove Creek - Daniel Ridge - 7.2 Miles - 1250 Ft Elevation

UPDATE FROM SATURDAY
I was able to park just before the Cove Creek parking area along the road and start the hike from there. I eliminated the Farlow Gap part of the hike to keep it at roughly 7 miles and 1250 ft of elevation gain. The trail was in good shape with no ice. It may be muddy on Monday if we get the rain expected Sunday but it will be a nice hike. The views of the Davidson River are excellent this time of year and we will stop for a snack where the trail normally crosses the river to get to Farlow Gap. Avoiding that crossing is probably a good thing right now. And this route passes Big Toms Spring Falls twice so that is a bonus.

DESCRiPTION (Original Writeup)
This hike will be the Daniel Ridge - Farlow Gap hike. It is little over 7 miles and 1350 ft of elevation winding along the Davidson River on the way up and doing a double lollipop loop. There are some water crossings so poles might be useful. This is a pretty hike with rocky stream and waterfall views along the way. As with any winter hike you should be prepared for a variety of trail conditions. I like going fast enough to stay warm this time of year so about 2.7 mph with stops as needed.

SIGNUP
Signup will open Friday at 5pm

CARPOOL
We will meet at the Mills River Ingles at 10:00 by the gas pumps. Please be there a little early so we can leave right at 10:00. We will plan to start hiking a little after 10:30 at the Cove Creek trailhead. Please let me know via message or text if you plan to go directly to the trailhead. We will split up the carpool cars depending on whether you want to go to Ecusta Brewery after the hike.

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 10 AM the day of. Cell reception may be sketchy at the trailhead, 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.