"Leisure hike" to Point Lookout

2.5 miles. 300' elevation gain.
Starting at the Point Lookout trailhead in Ridgecrest, we'll parallel the train tracks as we make our way down the trail, which in the 1800s was part of the Western Turnpike stagecoach line and the primary link between Asheville and eastern North Carolina. We'll make our way down to the scenic vista at Point Lookout (a historic tourist stop in the 1920s when the trail became US 70), then venture just a little past it to see Lick Log Tunnel before backtracking to our cars. Most of the trail is paved, with only a few broken spots (and the gravel path up to the train tunnels): there's no need to wear bulky hiking boots unless you want to. A nice short ("leisure") hike with history and a view.

We'll be meeting at River Ridge Market Place behind the CVS off Exit 53B of I-40. Please plan to car pool if you can as there's only room for about 8 cars or so at the trailhead.