VVS Sam's Gap to Big Bald

Meet at the Sam's Gap Appalachian Trail head at 9:15am. Our hike will begin at 9:30am. https://maps.app.goo.gl/vZt4bAaNLarZtUtj6

This is a beautiful hike up to Big Bald. The AT is relatively smooth with an up and down, though mostly up, climb to Big Bald. At the summit you will experience 360-degree views which take in the Black Mountains (containing Mount Mitchell) and a distant view of the Smokey's and Mount Pisgah.
After the hike you are welcome to join us Brixx Wood Fire Pizza located at Biltmore Park for drinks and/or pizza. https://maps.app.goo.gl/snWiLywmgy9KgJzo6

Please organize carpools using the comment section below.

If you have not hiked with me in the past, please contact me at cliff@argylemultimedia.com. I will inquire of your recent hiking history regarding miles and elevation gain.

Distance: 13.14 miles
Elevation Gain: 3100'
Pace: 2.5mph

Hike leader's note about pace: I've been told that I tend to hike at a fast pace especially on ascents. I don't think that I'm necessarily fast, but I do like to get my heart rate up (former distance runner here) and I normally like to "lean" into the hill I'm climbing. When traversing a descent, I think I'm slow. Bad knees! Please know, this hike is not a race, nor do I ever inquire about someone's pace in determining if someone is ready for the hike. When climbing often "slow and steady" is the way to go. If you see me and a few others take off up a climb know that there's no expectation for someone to keep up. Further, we eventually stop because we need the rest and will allow others to rest as well before beginning again. No one is ever left behind and generally the hike leader keeps an eye on folks near the end of the group. A "sweep," a designated hike leader who is very knowledgeable of the trail is always present at the very back of the group. No one gets behind the sweep. This type of hike leadership allows a diverse group of hikers, fast to not as fast, to experience the trail as a group. My criteria for allowing a newcomer to join the hike is the ability to handle the mileage, i.e., complete the entire hike in good shape along with the elevation gain. There are generally no criteria for speed. I hope this helps. Please message me at cliff@argylemultimedia.com if you have questions or concerns.

Check out our website for hike leader info, club news, stewardship and more information about GNHA.
https://www.greenvillehiking.com/
Follow us on:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/289785994852020/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/greenvillehiking
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gnhahiking/