Pisgah Ridge & Graveyard Ridge

THE HIKE: Start at Graveyard Field parking lot. Cross the BRP and take a social trail south, up to Pisgah Ridge. At the ridge line, turn right and proceed along the ridge line until reaching Black Balsam Road (FSR 816). Take a social trail that parallels Black Balsam Rd to Art Loeb/MST. Climb to where that trail crosses Black Balsam Rd. and then continue on the MST. We'll take a break along this section. Hike down to Black Balsam Junction and take the Graveyard Ridge Trail (not MST) and Graveyard Ridge Trail Connector trail back to the parking lot.

TRAIL CONDITIONS: Some sections of the social trails are overgrown. LONG TROUSERS ARE REQUIRED. Also, bring rain gear for later in the day. Distance is about 7 miles, and pace will be about 2 mph. I expect spending 4 hrs on the trail. Elevation is easily 1,000+ feet. This is not an easy hike. However, we should escape the heat of the lower elevations. Please note that we are starting a bit early to avoid afternoon showers. Not a dog friendly hike.

At the John Rock parking area, we'll bypass the new but unfinished/unopened trailhead for the new connector trail down to Graveyard Field. See photos.

CAR POOL: Meet at the French Broad River Overlook, Blue Ridge Parkway, at 8:00 A.M. for carpool up to Graveyard Field. Car pool is not mandatory.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY: The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup Terms of Service: https://help.meetup.com/hc/en-us/articles/360027447252-Terms-of-Service#h_9e385395-a405-4361-8afc-854a4f586c82.