Beginner Hikes - (SVC) 2, 4, or 6 Miles - 3 Options - Easy/Moderate

*** PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE POSTING BEFORE SIGNING UP ***

OVERVIEW
Summer is coming soon, and it's time to get in trail shape. We will be offering some basic info about topics that beginners often struggle with when hiking in the Smokies. We'll combine instruction with enjoying some time together on two of the easiest trails in the Park.

DESCRIPTION
We get requests for shorter hikes from those just getting started hiking or backpacking, those trying to get back in shape, or those trying to build up their endurance and increase their ability to do higher elevation hikes. We will have 3 options that are cumulative in length and difficulty.

We have arranged the order of the hikes to allow beginners to choose the right mileage for them, and perhaps extend their day on the fly, by adding the next option. When you RSVP, please pick only ONE of the following 3 options, so that we can plan for the number of vehicles and co-leaders necessary to safely spread out the group.

INSTRUCTION TOPICS
We will be offering a brief overview of the following topics, while having lunch at the Bud Ogle cabin near Gatlinburg, around noon.

1. Getting in Trail Shape - How do I get started?
2. Footwear Dilemma - Do I want hiking shoes, trail runners or boots?
3. Keeping Warm or Cool - What is this "layering" thing hikers talk about?
4. Staying Dry - How do I stay dry when hiking in the Smokies?
5. Safety - What do I need to do to hike safely in the Smokies?

HIKE OPTIONS

*** When you RSVP you need to give us an Option so we can plan for drivers and leaders. If you don't have that ability on a mobile app, please let us know in the Comments section below. Please answer all 3 questions.

OPTION 1 – Twin Creeks Trail – 2 Miles / +700’ elevation – Easy
We’ll meet at the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 8:00 to shuttle cars and hikers. We’ll drop most hikers at the northern end of trail near the Park boundary on Cherokee Orchard Rd. Then we’ll drop some cars at the southern end of the trail at the “Bud’ Ogle Nature Center parking area for those that will be ending their day there. We’ll then hike 1.9 miles south on the trail back to the cars, gaining 700 feet of elevation (around 350 feet per mile). This is an easy hike. Add the next Option to make it a 6 mile day, or call it a day. We should be off trail by 10:00.

OPTION 2 – Old Sugarlands – 4 Miles / -1,150’ elevation – Easy
We’ll meet at the Rainbow Falls trailhead parking lot on Cherokee Orchard Rd at 10:30 (use the overflow lot 5 minutes further down the road if the main lot is full). Hikers may want to car pool because Rainbow Falls is a popular hike and parking is always tight. We’ll hike 3.9 miles south and west back to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, dropping 1150' along the way. Off trail by 2:00 or so. Volunteers will shuttle hikers back up to pick up their cars.

OPTION 3 – Twin Creek and Old Sugarlands – 6 Miles - Moderate
We’ll meet at the Sugarlands Visitor Center at 8:00 to shuttle cars and hikers. We'll follow the Option 1 and Option 2 routes. We should be off trail by 2:00 or so. Volunteers will shuttle hikers back up to pick up their cars.

SHUTTLES
All Options will require a shuttle to get to the starting trailheads, or back to the Meeting Locations. We ask if you would be willing to help shuttle hikers when you RSVP. Hikes like this only work when folks volunteer to pitch in.

** Shuttle drivers will need to be taken back to collect their cars afterwards. **

WHAT TO BRING
We always suggest carrying the 14 Essentials when going into the woods. You can download a pdf file here that discusses these essentials. (note: some of the links in the original article are now dead)

Because it’s the Smokies we need to always be mindful of the weather and bring the necessary insulation layers and waterproof outer layers, at least 1 liter of water, and a lunch or snacks.

LATECOMERS AND 'NO-SHOWS'
Because this type of event has a lot of moving parts it’s important that everyone is on time (or early). You wouldn't want to get left behind because you’re running late. If your plans change and you can’t come on the hike please remember to change your RSVP so we’re not waiting for you.

*** Failure to change your RSVP or let us know at least an hour ahead of the hike's start time qualifies as a 'No-Show' for me, and you may not be able to hike with me in the future. ***

Trail Map

Elevation Profile (Option 2)

Trail GPS file (.gpx) => (download only)

Trails Slope Key

DISCLAIMER
By signing up for this event you affirm that you understand this disclaimer and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the Organizers of this Meetup group.
Full Disclaimer

EVENT HOSTS
Lane DeCost - 2023 AT '2000 Miler' / SAR team volunteer / 900 Miler x4