The Despeauxrados, (VS) - Art Loeb / Black Balsam / Shining Rock Gap

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We will start where the Art Loeb / MST trail crosses FSR 816 toward Black Balsam Knob. The hike will take us on the Art Loeb trail out to Ivestor Gap. We'll take the Ivestor trail to Shining Rock Gap and on to Flower Gap for lunch. From there we will follow the Art Loeb trail and take it to the summit of Grassy Cove Top for a view. We'll return following Graveyard Ridge and MST trail.

*** If our hiker count exceeds the max number for the wilderness area, we will split up at Ivestor Gap with one group taking Ivestor trail to the left and the other group taking the Art Loeb Trail to the right and possibly meet up for lunch but will meet up back at Ivestor Gap to finish the hike.

It will be HOT and there will be a lot of exposed hiking, so don't forget to bring some type of sun protection!

Distance: 11 miles

Elevation Gain: 1550 ft.

Rating: VS

Pace: Approx. 2.5 mph

Leader: Mark Parsons / Charles Dial

Times and Locations:
University Square @ 8:00 - Gmap: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fbUpKryzaTLgP1hHA
Holly Springs @ 8:15 - Gmap: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MZFX6PWdHin1UKuZ8
Pisgah Ranger Station @ 9:15 - GMap: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3kBB7er48fcvfbHG6
Art Loeb & Black Balsam Knob Trailhead @ 9:45- Gmap: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ez3C3AgB2pxyUW1L8

Carpool info:
RT 128 mi. from University Square: $10
RT 78 mi. from Holly Springs: $6

This group meets Wed at University Square Shopping Center. The hikes are scheduled 1 to 4 weeks in advance and target hikes which are 10 miles long and climb 2000 ft. We hike at approx. 2.5 MPH, faster or slower depending on terrain.
Hike coordinators are:
Mark Parsons 864-430-0875 ( voice or text)
John Pirraglia 713-826-2434 ( voice or text)
Charles Dial 704-654-7041 ( voice or text)

Carpooling will be available for those who have been vaccinated. All hikers should come prepared to drive to or meet at the trailhead.

Check out our website for hike leader info, club news, stewardship and more information about GNHA.
https://www.greenvillehiking.com/
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