Rock Castle Gorge Loop - Backpacking

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Incredibly scenic hike in Rocky Knob Recreation Area. You will NOT want to miss this one. If you are newer into backpacking this could be an option for you; stronger hikers that are interested in backpacking would be great for this trip! You must provide ALL your own gear + food.

This trail has it all—rock scrambling, waterfalls, small rivers and streams. Follow Food Lion and Merb along the trail, passing through open fields, cow pastures, and jaw-dropping views at nearly every turn.

We’ll meet Saturday afternoon and hike in to a beautiful riverside campsite, build a fire, and share deep connection. Sunday, we will have a leisurely breakfast and a mellow wake up before our hard hike out. We can do some foraging too! We will leave camp at 11am and hike out and cap the trip with pizza at Dogtown in Floyd, supporting local small businesses.

Trail: Rock Castle Gorge Loop
Difficult: Hard
Distance: 11.2 miles total; 5 miles the first night
Type: Loop
Elevation gain: 2,522
Estimated Time: One overnight
Meet up time: 3pm; meet at trailhead so we can start our trip. This trail is about 2 hours from downtown Charlotte so please plan accordingly
Hike start time: 3:15pm
Meet at Trailhead: Use the all trails link here. You will go to the little visitor center and park behind it NOT the campground. Please text MERB if you have any questions: 704-224-8559

“By RSVP’ing to this event, you are agreeing to the following:

TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY: "I fully realize that this activity involves a risk of personal injury, property damage, or loss of my person or property. I hereby, for myself, my heirs, executors, and administrators, and for all persons in my party, waive and release any claims or rights against P.S. Hikers, its owners, leaders, and coordinators for any and all injury, damages, or loss to my person or property incurred during or related to this activity.
I acknowledge that backpacking and hiking activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to navigation challenges, environmental hazards, and limited access to emergency services. I understand that participation without prior experience in navigation, wilderness travel, or survival skills increases these risks, and I voluntarily assume full responsibility for my participation.
I understand that organizers are not required to be CPR, First Aid, or Wilderness Survival certified, and I am solely responsible for my own safety and preparedness.
I grant permission to P.S. Hikers to capture and use photographs, video, or other media of me during participation for promotional, marketing, and community purposes without compensation.
I understand and agree that all trip registrations and payments are final and non-refundable.
Your RSVP indicates acknowledgment and acceptance of the terms outlined in this TRIP PARTICIPANT WAIVER OF LIABILITY."