Bus Hike #2 - Deep Creek - 14.5 Miles - Moderately Difficult

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

DESCRIPTION
This is a pleasant 14 mile hike in the woods with a 3600' descent from the DC TH on 441 near Newfound Gap. There are a good number of water crossings, several of which will require a wade. Depending on recent rains, most of them should be below the knee.

We highly recommend non-waterproof shoes for this hike because crossings are so close together at times that it doesn't make sense to try and change in and out of Crocs or water shoes.

QUALIFICATIONS
You should be comfortable hiking a 2.0-2.5 mph pace with 3000 feet of elevation drop, for 14+ miles, over an 6-7 hour period. This hike is rated **Moderately Difficult** solely because of the distance.

WAIT LIST
Hikers should also join the Wait List on the Bus Hike event posting to reserve their seat on the shuttle bus for this specific hike. That allows us to 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 their hike organizer. Details to follow.

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

This hike may 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 Bus Event WL, and confirmed as "Going" on this hike.

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

HIKE DETAILS
Deep Creek - 14.5 Miles +675 /- 3640' - Moderately Difficult

Hikers will be dropped off at Deep Creek TH around 8:30 or so, and we'll start a mostly down hill hike, with a few roller coaster hills thrown in just for fun. Most of the trail travels alongside Deep Creek back to the DC Campground. We should be off trail between 3:30 and 4:00. 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. Hiking Poles are highly recommended.

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

Deep Creek Trail
Deep Creek Profile
Deep Creek GPS File (.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
Randy H.