August 20, 2019
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Today’s hike was on the Appalachian Trail near Franklin, NC from Wayah Crest Picnic Area to Siler Bald and back. HIKERS – Mike Bell, Jenny Bell, Ray Clark, Joe Collins, Bob Drake, Jo Drake, Tim Hale, , Dick Metzgar, Jenna Hensley and Jeanne McGahee, TRAIL INFO. – This is a very nice summertime hike to spectacular Siler Bald. It is an uphill hike to the bald but very worth the effort because of the spectacular views from the 5,216 ft. summit. Total hiking distance today – 4.1 miles with large elevation gain. We rate the hike as moderately strenuous due to a large elevation gain. 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 sunny and mild. Temperatures in the mid 60’s F warming into the mid 70’s. Total distance – 4.1 mi. BLOOMING PLANTS: Red Bee Balm, Coreopsis, Red Clover, Wild Phlox, Angelica, Goldenrod, White Yarrow, Daisy Fleabane. BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Black and White Warbler, Towhee, Oven Bird, Veery, Black-Throated Blue Warbler, Junco, Pine Warbler, Black and White Warbler, Scarlet Tanager.
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