the fern beds at Pink Beds; a Saunter

We are the Sloth Hiking Group: “We will get there when we get there.”
NOTE: We are suggesting an additional $1(+) donation/event to help with the costs of operating HFF MeetUp.
John Muir didn’t like the word ‘hike’. “We ought to saunter through them reverently, not 'hike' through them.”
I am going to visit the fern beds on the backside of the Pink Beds Loop. Entering from the Barnett Branch Tr. A few of you are welcome to join me.
Distance: 4mi; accum gradual ascent: 300 ft
Pace: 1.5mph – because I’m an ol’ Codger.
Difficulty: Natural surface with a few roots or rocks. Structures carry you over the mud and water.
Lunch at the half-way point (promise!!)
Drive time: 30 min; 5 mi 1-way on gravel forest road. HIGH CLEARANCE REQR’D. Limited parking. Carpooling reqr’d.
Apprx return time: 2 pm
Your carpool contribution will be $2.00 (cash)
Weather Check: Brevard, NC
Weather cancellations will be posted at 6:30am.
WAITLISTED PEOPLE WILL BE ADDED AS DRIVERS SIGN ON.
I currently have 3 driver(s) (12)
We suggest open windows while carpooling. Only you know your own health status so judge accordingly if an event may endanger your health or the health of others.
Please bring an extra pair of shoes to avoid bringing your muddy shoes into the driver's car at the end of the hike.
This event is suitable for ‘amateurs’ who can handle 4 miles. Sturdy shoes, water & snacks reqr’d for your health.
I will be carryin’ the ‘Ent Ward’ for our mutual protection.
THIS IS A DOG-PARTICIPANT HIKE. This event is NOT for those who are uncomfortable with the antics of fun-loving dogs. Well trained dogs (you don’t have to yell) can be 'off-leash'. 'On leash' during the lunch stop. Small (lap)dogs may carpool. Large dogs will drive themselves.
Incessant prattlers will be assumed to be having an affair.
DESCRIPTION;
Remember - hikes led by ‘the Curmudgeon’ tend to have challenging surprises. (from recent storm damage)
I will begin from the Yellow Gap Rd on the Barnett Branch Tr and walk only the back loop of Pink Beds. I expect to catch the Rhodie blooms
Pink Beds is the headwaters for the South Fork Mills River. The woods are very lush and there are flat, boggy areas - more reminiscent of something you'd see on the coastal plain than in the mountains. These areas contain several rare and endangered plant species, so enjoy their unique beauty from on the trail. Other areas of the forest are more typical of a Western North Carolina scene, with tall mixed hardwoods and some pines and hemlocks.
All hikes are at your own risk. You are responsible for your OWN safety and adequate equipment.
Waiver: There are certain risks inherent in any outdoor activity. Each participant, by signing up to attend this event, agrees to release from liability the leader(s), Hendo Fun Friends, its Partners, Affiliates, and members for any accident, injury, illness, or personal loss which might occur while participating in this activity or while traveling in any vehicle during this trip**. Each participant further agrees to abide by the rules and regulations concerning safety, to follow instructions of the leader(s), and not to become intentionally separated from the group.** The leader(s) also has the right to use any images collected on this trip for recording on website photo collections.
gordie's contact: curmudgeonhiker@gmail.com
(before day of hike): 828.393.0297 (talk & text)
**Pics: https://www.flickr.com/photos/146993931@N05/albums**