Turkey Pen Gap Tr-Wagon Gap Tr-S Mills River Rd Loop

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If recent rain, Expect muddy areas along the trail and slippery stream crossings. This hike is NOT for novice hikers.

Enjoy this 6.2-mile loop trail near Mills River, North Carolina. Hopefully the timing is right to enjoy wildflowers in bloom. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. The first 1.5-2 miles is a STEEP ascent straight up Sharpy Mtn without switchbacks. The rest of the hike is primarily downhill, then flat along the river. Of course there will be stops along this steep uphill section. BRING PLENTY OF WATER and a GOOD SENSE OF HUMOR. We'll take a short break when we reach the intersection with Wagon Gap Tr at the top before moving on to some beautiful scenery. One area especially, is a hillside of Trillium, a sight to behold when in bloom. There is a small rock hop type stream crossing or two. And, if recent rain, some muddy spots are to be expected. Then once we reach the river we'll take a longer break at a rock outcropping beside the river. Bring Lunch. Afterwards, the hike follows the river and crosses a suspension bridge a couple times before reaching our return to the parking area. Carpool is necessary due to limited parking,

Time: 8:30 We leave on time. Please arrive a few minutes early to sign in
Location: Ingles Gas Express, 3336 Boylston Hwy, Mills River, NC 28759
Google Map: Ingles Gas Express, Mills River. Park BEHIND the station

We'll arrange carpools and head to the trailhead. Carpool suggested $4. All members must meet at the meetup location (not trailhead).
Distance: 6.2 mi, Elevation Gain: 1272 ft, Difficulty: Moderate,
Time: 3:30 hr, Pace: 2.2mph
Gear: sturdy footwear, hiking poles, plenty of water, rain gear according to weather, Change of shoes for after the hike!!
Well Behaved LEASHED dogs always Welcome
Disclaimer: Hike leader rehabbing total knee replacement will be slow on the uphill sections. Thank you in advance for understanding.
GUEST: When you have someone you’d like to come on a hike with you they need to join the group and then RSVP for the hike.
WEATHER: Check for current weather at trailhead location.
CANCELATION NOTICE: In the event the hike must be cancelled for any reason, notice will be made in the events comments section no later than 7am day of event. Always check the event page morning of events.
RSVP POLICY: Courtesy reminder: When you RSVP for an event it means you and the Event Host have set aside that time to attend. If plans change, cancel at least 24 hours prior to the event. Cancelling after the RSVP has closed are considered Last Minute and NO SHOW's which can result in permanent removal from the group. So, please be respectful of the Event Hosts and other members that are going and on the waitlist and keep your RSVP up to date.