Bus Hike #3 - Newton Bald-Sunkota-Deep Creek - 18 Miles - Strenuous

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

We get requests for medium and high intensity hikes from those trying to build up their endurance and stamina, and increase their ability to do higher elevation climbs. We offer Training Hikes that vary in length and difficulty to allow hikers to push their boundaries a bit.

QUALIFICATIONS
You should be comfortable hiking a 2.0-2.5 mph pace with 3000+ feet of elevation change, for 15+ miles, over an 8 hour period.

WAIT LIST
Hikers should join the Wait List to reserve their seat on the shuttle bus for this specific hike (and should have also joined the WL on the Bus Hike event posting) so we can track how many remaining seats are available.

We need to pay $15 per hiker, in advance, for the shuttle bus, so hikers will need to arrange payment with the hike organizer.

Because we are paying the Bus company in advance, there will be no refunds if your plans change.

This hike will use Venmo to settle the payment, and information will be sent via Meetup Messages to individual hikers. After payment is confirmed hikers will be removed from the WL, and confirmed as "Going" on the hike.

MEETING LOCATION
Hikers will meet the Bus at the Noland Divide parking area at 8:00 to shuttle over to the Newton Bald TH on 441.

HIKE DETAILS
Newton Bald-Sunkota Ridge-Deep Creek - 18 Miles +3750 /- 4100' - Strenuous (Pink Line)

Hikers will be dropped off at the Newton Bald TH around 8:30, and we'll start a lung-busting 2900' climb over the next 5 miles, at a 570 fpm slope. Then we'll begin a 3200 foot descent over 13 miles, by way of the Sunkota Ridge, Martins Gap, and Deep Creek trails back to the DC Campground. We should be off trail between 4:30 and 5:00. There are numerous places to fill water over the last 6 miles.

WHAT TO BRING
Bring a day bag, with at least two liters of water, plenty of snacks, and a hat. We'll go rain or shine (and it IS the Smokies), so rain gear is also advised.

We always suggest carrying the 14 Essentials when going onto the woods. You can download a pdf file here that discusses these essentials.

LATECOMERS AND NO-SHOWS
It's important for everyone to be early, or at least on time. We would hate to leave a hiker behind because they are running late. (It happens)

If your plans change and you can't come on the hike, please remember to change your RSVP at least an hour before the event begins, so you don't wind up on my "No-Fly" list.

*** Failure to do so qualifies as a "No-Show" with me and you may not be allowed to join future hikes or backpacking trips. ***

NAVIGATION AIDS

Newton Bald-Sunkota Ridge-Deep Creek Map

NB-SR-DC Profile

NB-SR-DC Profile(.gpx) (download only)

Trail 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 ORGANIZER
Lane DeCost - AT 2000 Miler '23 / Search and Rescue volunteer / 900 Miler x4