Bear Pen Gap/Mtn to Sea East; a Saunter

We are the Sloth Hiking Group: “We will get there when we get there.” We dare to go where the ‘real’ hike groups don’t.
John Muir didn’t like the word ‘hike’. “We ought to saunter through them reverently, not 'hike' through them.”
I am going to try to find the blueberry field of the Bear Pen Gap section of the MST. A few ppl are welcome to join me.
Hike Distance: 3.0 mi (apprx) Accum ascent: 500 ft.
Elevation: 5,500 ft
Pace: 1.5mph – because I’m an ol’ Codger.
Difficulty: Very Rocky w/ roots. Single track; In & Out.
Masticating will be ‘in motion’.
After the hike, we will search for Sweetwater Spring on Haywood Gap Tr (1/4 mi)
Drive time: 35mi/1 hr 1-way
Apprx return time: 2:30 pm
Carpool contributions appreciated. $4.00 suggested
Weather Check: Waynesville, NC
*https://www.mountain-forecast.com/peaks/Richland-Balsam/forecasts/1954*
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.
Incessant prattlers will be assumed to be having an affair. Obstreperous raucous yawping is discouraged.
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'. Small (lap)dogs may carpool. Large dogs will drive themselves.
DESCRIPTION;
Remember - hikes led by ‘the Curmudgeon’ tend to have challenging surprises.
Wood elves are mischievous in the Summer; Zip your backpacks tight.
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**