Young Professionals Guided Nature Hike | Lookout Mountain (Montreat)

Guided Nature Hike: Lookout Mountain (Montreat)
Saturday, November 22
10:00 AM to approximately 2:00 PM
Montreat Gate Trailhead Parking Lot
Assembly Drive, Montreat, NC 28757
Coordinates: 35.64578, -82.29696
Limited to 20 participants
Event Description
Join AYPROS for a late fall hike up Lookout Mountain in Montreat. This scenic, moderately challenging trail offers steady climbing, a short steep push near the summit, and memorable ridge views at the top. Expect a relaxed, social pace with time to enjoy the forest, take photos, and soak in the lookout points.
We will gather at the Montreat Gate Trailhead Parking Lot and allow 15 to 20 minutes for everyone to arrive before starting the hike. The route is an out-and-back of roughly four miles. Temperatures can be cooler and breezy at higher elevations, so plan to bring layers.
Tailgate Lunch at Noon
Once we return to the parking area, we will settle in for a laid back tailgate lunch. Bring a small cooler, simple lunch items, or snacks to share. A lawn chair is helpful if you prefer a comfortable spot to sit. Travel guide Ryan Wallace will bring a small camp setup to warm cider. Anyone who wants to contribute is welcome to bring a jug of cider to add to the pot.
Bathrooms
Public restrooms are available at the Montreat Conference Center and Anderson Auditorium, located about a two to three minute walk from the trailhead.
Where to Meet
Montreat Gate Trailhead Parking Lot
Assembly Drive, Montreat, NC 28757
Coordinates: 35.64578, -82.29696
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p2dy2t7wWj5QoPT6
Apple Maps: https://maps.apple.com/?ll=35.64578,-82.29696&q=Montreat%20Gate%20Trailhead%20Parking
What to Bring
• Water
• Lunch items or snacks
• Warm layers
• Comfortable hiking footwear
• Optional: cider to share, a small cooler, a lawn chair
Helpful Notes
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so parking can be organized and the group can begin together. If you are running late, do not stress. We will wait until everyone arrives. Use the restrooms before the hike if needed.
About Our Guide
Ryan Wallace works with the WNC Impact Fund and is a longtime hiking and outdoors enthusiast. He spends much of his free time exploring Western North Carolina’s trails and introducing others to the natural beauty of the region. Ryan is a familiar face in the Asheville professional community and someone who genuinely enjoys helping others get to know the mountains.