October 4, 2016
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Today’s hike was on the Appalachian Trail in NC . We hiked from Wayah Gap to Wayah Bald and Winespring Bald and back. Total of 8.7 miles HIKERS – John Anderson, Phil Brownrigg, Joe Collins, Greta Driggers, Jim Driggers, Pam Euliss, Stephen Gales, Bob Magee, Dick Metzgar, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Terre Pratt, Tony Presley and Vic Robson. TRAIL INFO: A beautiful section of the Appalachian Trail near Franklin, NC. Some of the most spectacular mountain views in the Southeastern U.S. The trail gains 1,300 ft. in elevation as you make your way up to the summit of Wayah Bald at 5,342 ft. At the summit, you find the historic Wayah Bald Fire Tower built in the 1930’s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Breathtaking views are available in every direction from the tower. Directions: From Franklin, travel west on US 64 for 3 miles to Old Murphy Road where there is a Wayah Bald sign. Turn right and drive .2 mile to Wayah Road (SR 1310). Turn left and continue for 9 miles to Wayah Gap and FR 69. There is an Appalachian Trail crossing sign. (Wayah Crest Picnic Area is on the left.) Another great day for a hike! Mostly fair with temperatures ranging 46 to 72 degrees F. – Trail is rated strenuous due to an elevation gain of 1,300 ft. Distance hiked – 8.7 miles. WILDFLOWERS IN BLOOM: Various Asters, Goldenrod, Horse Balm, White Snakeroot, Southern Harebells, Showy Gentian, Wild Phlox, Red Clover, Woodland Sunflower, Angelica, Lance-leaved Coreopsis. BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Pileated Woodpecker, Nuthatch, Crow, Blue Jay, Cardinal, Raven and Junco.
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