UnRuffle yo’self at Otter Hole

I am going to unravel my stress at Otter Hole Swimmin’ Hole at the headwaters of the So.Mills River.
Otter Hole is a small cascade dropping into a deep swimmin’ hole near the headwaters of the south fork of Mills River that flow out of Pink Beds watershed. We will pass some lovely rock walls, dripping and oozing water. We also pass some nice cascades and pools.
Difficulty: Forested single track moderate descent, ‘natural’ surface w/ rocks & roots.
The cold water of Otter Hole is suitable for deep water swimmin’ or floating.
We are the Sloth Hike Team of WNC: “We will get there when we get there.”
**https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQ8H4EK2vt4**
Up to 12 ppl are welcome to join me.
I will spend (up to) 2-3 hours at the falls. Come prepared to pretend to meditate, ponderin’, practice your Tai-Chi, 森林浴, read a book, prepare a meal, play a flute or swim.
Hike Details:
Social ‘hour’ at 9:50am. Bus leaves at 10:00a)
Length: 3.0mi RT; Accum ascent: 350 ft; most on the return. Pace: 1.5mph.
[Optional: Further down the trail is Billy Branch Falls (add 1 mi RT)]
Drive time: 30min/12 mi 1-way
Apprx return time: 2:30 PM (=4.25hrs)
Carpool contributions appreciated. $2.00 suggested
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 Unraveling (‘cept for swimmin’). Small (lap)dogs may carpool. Large dogs will drive themselves.
Weather Check: Brevard, NC
WAITLISTED PEOPLE WILL BE ADDED AS DRIVERS SIGN ON.
I currently have 2.5 driver. (=10ppl)
We suggest masks and 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.
UnRuffle/UnRavel: To experience a time of quiet in a manner that you feel worthwhile. Démêlez votre stress.
Engage the 5 senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, hearing),
Observe the movement of the forest & water.
Breathe the aroma of the air, water, plants and forest.
Feel the texture of the air, water, trees and plants.
Listening to the sound of air, water, critters & birds;
Taste the air of the breezes or soothing snacks.
All hikes are at your own risk. You are responsible for your OWN safety and adequate equipment.
Waiver: The organizer of this event is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this event. 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**