Heyward Forest/Round Top/Ragged Mountain Circuit - 10 miles/~1650 elevation

Parking: Heyward Community Forest Parking https://maps.app.goo.gl/aP6mytWrrhuVk3g49

Hike Description: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/ragged-mtn-plus-fcf55a3?u=i&sh=jbc54i

Despite being 10 miles long, this is a moderately strenuous hike and a good one for the summer months. The first part of the hike is in Heyward Forest with lots of shade. The latter part, around the Ragged Mountain reservoir, is also shaded and features multiple views of the lake. And if you like wine berries, they should be ripening.

We start the hike from the Heyward Community Forest parking lot. After about a mile we cross Reservoir Rd and take the Creekside Trail along the creek for a short distance after which we follow some interesting new mountain bike trails to complete our first loop. We cross back over Reservoir Rd and turn right for the 2 "toughest" ascents of the day to Round Top. Each ascent is only about ½ mile and less than 300 feet of elevation gain. We descend from Round Top and begin our trek around the reservoir on the Lake Loop trails enjoying sculptures along the way. This portion of the hike could be described as mostly flat with gentle and short undulations. There is one last ½ mile climb as we ascend to the dam after crossing the lake on the floating bridge. After crossing the dam we re-enter the woods to return to the parking lot.

There will be an optional tailgate at the conclusion of the hike. Bring a chair, your beverage and a snack if you choose to participate.

DISCLAIMER: GetHiking Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. With your RSVP you agree to participate at your own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to your property and/or any injury to yourself or your guest. When joining GetHiking you affirm that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of/or related to this event against the organizers of this group.
WEATHER: If inclement weather necessitates canceling or postponing the hike, the decision will be made no later than 7:00AM - cancellations will be posted on the hike comments section. Steady rain with not much chance of clearing and/or dangerous conditions will call for postponing the hike.
RSVP: If you find that you are NOT going to be able to attend the hike, please update your RSVP to “No” as soon as possible. This allows those on the waitlist to have the opportunity to attend.
RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO BRING: - Broken in Hiking Boots, Trekking Poles, Lunch/Snacks, 2-3 Liters of Water, Good Day Pack