Flat Laurel Creek Rock Scramble

This is one of the most popular creek scrambles near Asheville. Note this is not the Flat Laurel Creek Trail, it is a creek hike. It begins at NC Hwy. 215 near the confluence of Flat Laurel Creek and the West Fork of the Pigeon River (35.3285, -82.9096), approximately, at about 9:30. We will ascend past numerous rapids and impressive waterfalls. We will be in the creek or rock hopping most of the day. The requirements are a good sense of balance, comfortable shoes with good traction, and ability or interest to scramble up rocks in a creek. We'll also climb a steep trace trail around the highest waterfall. Good swimming holes abound. The pace will be moderate, with time for pictures, and we will take a short break at one of the many scenic spots for lunch. After finishing the ascent we will trail hike up to the Black Balsam/Big Sam parking lot, where cars will be left for this shuttle. You will have the option to hike up Big Sam Mountain (over 6K) for the view. However, the group will proceed directly to the parking lot for Big Sam.
We will climb 950 feet and hike approx. 3.5 miles.
We will be meeting at the end of Black Balsam Knob Road (FS 816) at the parking lot for the Big Sam trailhead at 9:05 am. The coordinates are 35.325586, -82.881986.
Any questions I can be reached or text at 828 231-3581.

LEGALESE
This Asheville Hiking Group (AHG) event involves serious risks, including but not limited to: slipping or falling on wet rocks; sprains, fractures, and other injuries from falls; water-related injury; exposure to weather, cold, or heat; wildlife encounters; remote locations with limited or delayed access to emergency medical care; and risks arising from my own or other participants' actions. These risks cannot be eliminated regardless of care taken. Participants are responsible for their own safety and affirm that they have the appropriate skills, physical conditioning, equipment, and supplies. Neither your hike organizer nor Asheville Hiking Group can assure your safety nor eliminate all risks. Participants assume full responsibility for any damages, losses, or injuries.