Max Patch Bald; a Saunter

Hike a section of the famous Appalachian Trail on top of Max Patch Mountain. This 4,600-foot mountain was cleared and used as pasture in the 1800s. Today, it's a 350-acre tract of open land on a high knob with 360-degree views. On a clear day, you can see from Mt. Mitchell on the east to the Great Smoky Mountains on the south.
Before we get there, we will take a side stop at Little Falls Branch Falls
We are the Sloth Hike Team of WNC: “We will get there when we get there.” We dare to go where the ‘real’ hike groups don’t !! This event is dependent on ‘nice’ weather.
John Muir didn’t like the word ‘hike’. “We ought to saunter through them reverently, not 'hike' through them.”
WAITLISTED PEOPLE WILL BE ADDED AS DRIVERS SIGN ON.
I currently have 1.5 driver(s) (=8ppl)
WE WILL SPEND (up to) an HOUR AT THE ‘TOP’ TO ‘ENJOY’. Bring ground cloth, snacks & water.
MAX PATCH details::
Difficulty: Well developed easy trail; constant gradual climb.
Length: 2.0 mi total; Total ascent: 275 ft; Pace: 1.5mph
Before we get there, we will take a side stop at:
LITTLE FALLS BRANCH FALLS details:
Length: 0.5 mile; one-way; Ascent: 100 ft
Difficulty: woodland trail; w/ 2 rockhop creek Xings
Total Drive Time: 1.25 hr/60 mi (one way) We will be driving I-40 west to the Harmon Den exit (7); then 6 miles on a steadily climbing gravel forest rd. (hi-clearance suggested)
Google Maps: “Max Patch Parking”
Return Not earlier than: 3:00 pm
Carpool contributions appreciated. $10.00 suggested
THIS IS A DOG-PARTICIPANT HIKE. This event is NOT for those who are uncomfortable with the antics of fun-loving dogs. Dogs (and Masters) required to be ‘on-leash'. Small (lap)dogs may carpool. Large dogs will drive themselves.
Weather Check: Del Rio, TN
Incessant prattlers will be assumed to be having an affair.
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.
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
(on day of hike): 828.393.0297 (talk & text)
**Pics: https://www.flickr.com/photos/146993931@N05/albums**