What we’re about
The Blue Ridge Group is the Sierra Club's group in northwest North Carolina. This includes Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watagua, and Wilkes counties. We offer hikes to help people enjoy the natural world in this part of the state and occasional programs to talk about issues affecting us here.
Upcoming events (1)
See all- Take a Hike - Elk Knob State Park with Sierra Club July 26Elk Knob State Park, Todd, NC
Our hike this month will be on the Summit Trail at Elk Knob State Park beginning at 9:30am on Saturday July 26. The Summit Trail culminates at two overlooks, one looking north and one looking south. Both provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The walk itself totals 3.8 miles with an elevation gain of 977' (the first half all uphill to the summit and the second half downhill back to the parking lot). There are two short areas that are steep but overall the trail is well-maintained and well-designed with a steady, gradual grade. The hike is mostly through a beautiful mixed-hardwood forest with abundant wildflowers and ferns. It opens up near the summit to provide views of the surrounding mountains.
We will meet at the trailhead at 9:30. The trailhead can be found at the end of the park road, just follow the signs once you've entered the park. There are no restrooms at the trailhead but they are located nearby at the park's picnic area.
Please plan to dress in layers and bring rain gear if needed. We will plan on stopping for snacks or lunch during the hike so bring food and at least one liter of water. If anyone is feeling sick, and/or has a fever, they should not attend this outing. Families are welcome! Any minors (under 18-years-old) should be accompanied and supervised by parents or other adult family members. Dogs are allowed on this hike but must be on a leash at all times.
PLEASE REGISTER FOR THE HIKE USING THE LINK ON THE SIERRA CLUB'S BLUE RIDGE GROUP'S HOMEPAGE. If we need to cancel the hike due to weather or other event, we will use your registration information to contact you.
There is no charge for this hike and it is open to both Sierra Club members and to non-members. We do require participants sign a standard liability waiver at the trailhead or when registering. If you'd like to read the waiver prior to the hike please email us at BlueRidgeSierraClub AT gmail.com and we will send you a copy.
Park map is available here.
