Tue, Dec 3, 2024, 5:40 PM ESTScenic Avl Series #1: Hard Times Trail - Alternate Route
Bent Creek Hard Times Trail Head, Asheville, NC
Join me for a hike after work in Bent Creek. We will start at the Hard Times trailhead and hike about 5 miles. There will be downed trees, and part of the hike is a real scramble (at least it was when I scouted it).

Rating: Moderate
Length: 5.5 miles
Surface: Trail/Logging Road
Elevation Gain: 600 ft
Pace: 3 mph on the flats, slower on incline
Dogs: on leash
Bears: None so far this year
Features: Nice walk through the woods. We will not go to the Arboretum because it is closed.
Cautions: Muddy after rain, with some high grass. There are trees down at the start of the hike. Long pants and bug repellent recommended.

Carpool: 5:30 from Papa's and Beer.

Alternate Route: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/hard-times-alternate-37968ad

Scenic Asheville Series: There are 9 hikes in the series; hike them all and receive an attractive badge for your backpack.

RSVP and On-Time Start:

If you decide you cannot come, please change your RSVP

If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible so wait-listers can have sufficient notice.

There are generally 1 or 2 no-shows on my hikes, so we don't wait for people to arrive. If you are late, you'll be left behind.

If you no-show 2 times without changing your RSVP and/or contacting the hike leader, you may be blocked from the group.

Please note that there is never cell coverage at the start of the hike, so please change your RSVP as soon as you know you can't make it.

Notes and comments are genuinely appreciated.

Guests: Please ask guests to sign up for the hike themselves.

Disclaimer and Release of Liability:
This activity involves hiking on city streets that may have traffic. Participants are responsible for their safety on streets and trails. The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms

Hard Times Trailhead
375 Wesley Branch Rd · Asheville, NC

There is no cellular coverage at the trailhead! If you're late, there will be no way to contact us. Look for a white Subaru Crosstrek with a Peking University bumper sticker at the trailhead.
14 attendees+9
Wed, Dec 4, 2024, 9:00 AM ESTYALIBC (Yet Another Loop in Bent Creek)
Bent Creek - Rice Pinnacle Parking Area , Asheville, NC
This is yet another loop in Bent Creek with a short out and back to Ingles Field Gap, where we'll take a break.

We start at Rice Pinnacle parking lot and take a social trail to Wolf Branch trail. From there it's the Ingles Field Gap trail up to the gap. We then backtrack a bit to the Ingles Field Gap Connector, which takes us to Boyd Branch road and then to Ledford Branch road. Then it's a few social trails to Deer Lake Lodge trail back to the parking lot.

Stats:
Distance: approx 7 miles
Pace: approx. 2.5 mph
Ascent: 800 feet

Release of Liability Boilerplate:
The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms
11 attendees+6
Wed, Dec 4, 2024, 9:30 AM ESTTanyard Gap on the Appalachian Trail North, 10.5 mile Fittnes Hike.
Walmart, Weaverville, NC
MEETUP OPTIONS: 8:35 leaving Weaver Walmart Parking (Lot lower level across from the Lowes Homestore parking lot). For those who wish to carpool and/or follow to the trailhead. OR MEET US AT THE TANYARD Gap trailhead parking area at 9:30. Tanyard gap parking is where the AT bridge crosses over State Highway 25).

Hike will begin at Tanyard Gap parking lot on the APPLICHIAN TRAIL. We will Hike North for approximately 2 HOURS then on the return we will take the Rich Mountain Firetower spur for a snack break and begin a 2+ mile downhill streach to the parking lot trailhead..

ELEVATION GAIN ESTIMATE: Between 2,000' - 2.200'. This is a moderately strenuous rollercoaster style hike.

PACE: We average 3 MPH adjusting for ruggedness and steeper trail conditions, brief regrouping as necessary. The trail has reopened and cleared of downage, however, there may be a few remaining obsticles.

DOGS: Well-behaved dogs are welcome.

WEATHER: Brisk, Sunny weather predicted but Cancellation due to changes in weather forcast will be made on or before 7:15 am on hike day.

CANCELATION: IF YOU SIGNUP FOR THIS HIKE AND CHANGE YOUR PLANS, CHANGE YOUR RSVP TO NOT ATTENDING TO CANCEL YOUR RESERVED SPOT (EVEN IF ON THE WAITLIST AS THE WAITLIST IS ACTIVE UNTIL HIKE DAY).

*HIKE LEVELS:
Level 1: 0-600'; Level 2: 600-900'; Level 3: 900-1200'; Level 4: 1200-1500'; Level 5: 1500-1800'; *LEVEL 6 1800-2100'; *LEVEL 7; 2100-2400';
Level 8; 2400-2700'; Level 9; 2700-3000'; Level 10; 3000-4000';
ULTIMATE HIKES > 4000'

Release of Liability:
The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses and damages arising from, as a result of and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledging that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms
10 attendees+5
Wed, Dec 4, 2024, 5:30 PM ESTScenic AVL #3: Kennilworth
Harvest House, Asheville, NC
This route includes the Kenilworth neighborhood and the historically diverse South Asheville neighborhood. We will stop at a historic church and cemetery, as well as Kenilworth Park and Chiles House. We will go up Reservoir Rd to take in the view and get a workout.

Rating: Moderate+
Distance: 5 miles
Elevation: 670 feet
Surface: Road
Type: Butterfly Loop
Pace: 2.75 mph on the flats, slower up Reservoir Rd
Gear: 2L water, snack, poles for the climb
Features: Neighborhood charm Kenilworth, a little history, and views from the top. Not likely to see bears.
Dogs: On leash.
Cautions: Maintain normal traffic awareness.
Route: Kenilworth to Reservoir Rd .

Scenic Asheville Series: There are 9 hikes in the series; hike them all and receive an attractive badge for your backpack.

On-Time Departure
I typically have 1 or 2 no-shows on my hikes, so we don't wait for people to arrive. If you are late, you'll be left behind

If you no-show 2 times without changing your RSVP and/or contacting the hike leader, you may be blocked from the group.

Please note that there is never cell coverage at the start of the hike, so please change your RSVP as soon as you know you can't make it.

Notes and comments are genuinely appreciated.

Guests: Please ask guests to sign up for the hike themselves.

Disclaimer and Release of Liability:
This activity involves hiking on city streets that may have traffic. Participants are responsible for their safety on streets and trails. The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms
13 attendees+8
Thu, Dec 5, 2024, 6:00 PM ESTOff Trail: Line Dancing at Banks Ave Bar
Banks Ave Tavern, Asheville, NC
Every other week, some of us like to go line dancing at Banks Ave Bar. Come join us!

Need to practice? Here are dance tutorials!

Here's the Facebook page for Steppin' Out Asheville

Last time we went, we did the Miles On It dance.
Tutorial
Example
7 attendees+2
Fri, Dec 6, 2024, 9:00 AM ESTBig Laurel Creek - 7.2 mi, 300 ft. elev. gain
Publix Super Market at Weaverville Plaza, Weaverville, NC
[Sign-ups open 8:00 pm Sunday, Dec. 1st]

This out-and-back hike northwest of Asheville is a spectacular stroll along the picturesque Big Laurel Creek. You'll see many beautiful views of the creek's rapids, pools, and gorges along the way.

We'll take the trail all the way to its terminus at the confluence of Big Laurel Creek and the French Broad River. There, we'll pause for around a 15-minute break before heading back.

The trail is nearly flat, but rather stony and rooted in places. Hiking poles are advisable if you might feel unsteady. There are around a half-dozen trivial stream crossings, and there may be some muddy spots here and there along the route.

We'll do a steady 2.3-ish mph pace. I'd put the difficulty level at 3/10.

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on-leash. Wear sensible hiking boots. Bring some water and a quick snack if you'd like.

CARPOOLING TIME & PLACE

We'll carpool from the Weaverville Publix Supermarket and leave there at 9:00 AM sharp, so come a few minutes early. It's at 165 Weaver Blvd., Weaverville. Exit 19B from I-26. We'll gather at the west end of the lot, which is to the left as you face the store, and nearest to the freeway. (Look for me and my silver Hyundai sedan.) It'll be a 25-minute drive to the trailhead. We'll be back at Publix by roughly 1:00 PM.

Weaverville Publix on Google Maps
https://goo.gl/maps/Dw3KEb5oZP2dSVBR7

If you plan to meet us at the trailhead, please post a comment or message me, and arrive by 9:30. The parking lot is at "Big Laurel Trailhead" on Rt. 25/70 just before it turns into Rt. 208.

Trailhead parking lot on Google maps
https://goo.gl/maps/R9zYZpTPfEHAjoB58

COURTESY TO WAITLISTERS (Please abide!)

Only sign up if you *truly* plan to come. If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible. Avoid dropping out within 18 hours of the hike so wait-listers can have sufficient notice. And please please PLEASE don't be a no-show.

If you're on the waiting list, keep checking throughout the evening before. If you know ahead of the hike that the notice will be too short, please change your status to "Not Going" to make room for someone else.

WEATHER

I'll monitor the National Weather Service and post a cancellation message by 7:30 AM if the forecast is >50% chance of precipitation in the hike area.

GUESTS

If you'd like to bring a guest, you'll need to have them join the Asheville Hiking Group and sign up for the hike on their own. Alternatively, contact me in advance and ask if it's okay to bring a +1 after you've made it onto the "Going" list. Depending on timing and demand, I MAY be able to add your guest.

QUESTIONS?

If you have any questions, message me through MeetUp until 8:00 AM the day of. Cell reception may be sketchy, but you can try to text or call me up to the start of the hike: (803) 767-3094.

LEGALESE

This Asheville Hiking Group (AHG) event involves hiking and, possibly, transportation to and from the meetup site. Participants are responsible for their own safety and affirm that they have the appropriate skills, physical conditioning, equipment, and supplies. Hiking may involve risks to oneself and property. Neither your hike organizer nor Asheville Hiking Group can assure your safety nor eliminate all risks. Participants assume full responsibility for any damages or losses.
15 attendees+10
Sun, Dec 8, 2024, 10:00 AM ESTCamino del Sur. Section 7 - Strenuous - S. Asheville Loop 11.5 mi.
Ingles (just south of I-40 on Hendersonville Rd), Asheville, NC
Please join me for a morning hike around part of South Asheville in a big loop! Hike is considered strenuous for length.

Where: We'll meet at 780 Hendersonville Road. Ingles Parking Lot. GPS: 35.54428664773419, -82.53269120944059.

Pace:
We'll be walking at a brisk 2.5 to 3.0 mph, leaning more toward 3.0 mph, even uphill. Please be mindful of your fitness level, but don’t worry—we'll take breaks at a few spots to let everyone catch up. While we’ll pause, we can’t wait too long, so come ready for a solid workout!

No-Shows:
I’ll be keeping an eye on no-shows. If you RSVP and don’t show up without changing your RSVP or letting me know ahead of time, you may end up on the waitlist for future hikes.

Waitlist:
Regular hikers may get bumped up from the waitlist because I want to emphasize community first, but if you are a regular that stops attending for a few months, you could lose that priority. Make sure to check your RSVP status, even on the day of the hike, as it might change at the last minute! People tend to drop out left and right sometimes. If you're still on the waitlist, please don't show up. Plus-ones for people on the waitlist aren’t allowed—let's keep it fair for those eager to join!

Bringing a Plus-One:
If you’re bringing a friend, please select the +1 option when you RSVP or edit your response. It helps me keep an accurate headcount! Make sure your guest is also up for the pace and distance.

Optional Rucking:
I might bring along a weighted pack (rucking) for an extra challenge, but it's totally optional! Rucking is great training for backpacking. If you’re carrying more than 15 lbs, I recommend a proper backpack designed for heavy loads to prevent discomfort or injury. If you’re new to this, start light!

Eats/Drinks:
Drinks / eats will be at either Burial Beer Forestry Camp or the Village Pub.
20 attendees+15
Tue, Dec 10, 2024, 5:40 PM ESTScenic AVL #4 - Weaverville Wander
Lake Louise Park Public Bathrooms, Weaverville, NC
Rating: Very Strenuous
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation: 1,100 feet
Surface: Road
Pace: 3.2 mph on the flats, best effort up Hamburg Mtn
Gear: 2L water, snack, poles for the climb up Hamburg.
Head Lamp or Flashlight strongly recommended

Starting Location: We will meet at the Lake Louise Public Bathrooms. Call the organizer if you can not find us. 828-290-0886
If you are running late: Park at the Presbyterian Church and intercept us.
30 Alabama Ave, Weaverville, NC 28787
Route: Weaverville Wander

Features: Get to know Weaverville, Lake Louise, and views from the top. This route begins at Lake Louise, through the east Weaverville neighborhood, up-up-up Hamburg mountain, and through downtown.
Dogs: On leash, with water and snacks
Cautions: There is a 300 ft stretch along Hamburg Mountain road, which has limited shoulder and will require us to walk single-file.
Please note that this is a relatively fast paced hike, 3.2 mph even up hills. On flat sections, we will go faster. Please be aware of your abilities and level of physical fitness. We will stop and wait for people to catch up in certain spots and for water breaks, but we don't want to leave people behind or wait a long time. It will take about 2 - 3 hrs to complete.

Scenic Asheville Series: There are 9 hikes in the series; hike them all and receive an attractive badge for your backpack.

After Eats: TBD

RSVP and On-Time Start:

If you decide you cannot come, please change your RSVP

If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible so wait-listers can have sufficient notice.

There are generally 1 or 2 no-shows on my hikes, so we don't wait for people to arrive. If you are late, you'll be left behind.

If you no-show 2 times without changing your RSVP and/or contacting the hike leader, you may be blocked from the group.

Please note that there is never cell coverage at the start of the hike, so please change your RSVP as soon as you know you can't make it.

Notes and comments are genuinely appreciated.

Guests: Please ask guests to sign up for the hike themselves. If you show up with a guest, and they are not signed up, you will be banned from my future hikes.

Waitlist: Please note that people that come to my hikes regularly may be bumped up above newcomers on the waitlist. You can also lose this status if you stop showing up or no-show a lot. This is to reward people who come regularly, and it is also to be fair to new people who want to be on the hikes. Please keep an eye on your RSVP status.

Disclaimer and Release of Liability:
This activity involves hiking on city streets that may have traffic. Participants are responsible for their safety on streets and trails. The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms
18 attendees+13
Sun, Dec 15, 2024, 10:00 AM ESTCamino de Brevard - 12 miles. Moderate.
Brevard, Brevard, NC
Please come along for a morning hike through Brevard. Hike is considered moderate for length, 11.5 to 12 miles, but there are really no big hills in this camino. If you've ever wanted to explore Brevard and see a side of it that you don't normally get to see, this hike is for you!

WHERE: We will meet at the parking lot next to South Broad Park in Brevard: 35.22919, -82.73643

Pace:
We'll be walking at a brisk 2.5 to 3.0 mph, leaning more toward 3.0 mph, even uphill. Please be mindful of your fitness level, but don’t worry—we'll take breaks at a few spots to let everyone catch up. While we’ll pause, we can’t wait too long, so come ready for a solid workout!

No-Shows:
I’ll be keeping an eye on no-shows. If you RSVP and don’t show up without changing your RSVP or letting me know ahead of time, you may end up on the waitlist for future hikes.

Waitlist:
Regular hikers may get bumped up from the waitlist because I want to emphasize community first, but if you are a regular that stops attending for a few months, you could lose that priority. Make sure to check your RSVP status, even on the day of the hike, as it might change at the last minute! People tend to drop out left and right sometimes. If you're still on the waitlist, please don't show up. Plus-ones for people on the waitlist aren’t allowed—let's keep it fair for those eager to join!

Bringing a Plus-One:
If you’re bringing a friend, please select the +1 option when you RSVP or edit your response. It helps me keep an accurate headcount! Make sure your guest is also up for the pace and distance.

Optional Rucking:
I might bring along a weighted pack (rucking) for an extra challenge, but it's totally optional! Rucking is great training for backpacking. If you’re carrying more than 15 lbs, I recommend a proper backpack designed for heavy loads to prevent discomfort or injury. If you’re new to this, start light!

Eats/Drinks:
Eats drinks will be at Oscar Blues.
19 attendees+14
Tue, Dec 17, 2024, 5:40 PM ESTScenic AVL #5: Murdock Grove Weaver Blvd Loop
Weaver Park, Asheville, NC
Meet in the Murdock Avenue Parking Lot

Please bring a headlamp or flashlight!

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 5 miles
Pace: 3.2 mph
Elevation Gain: 800
Surface: Road
Dogs: On leash
Wildlife: Wild Turkey; not likely to see bears.

Route: Murdock Grove Loop

Scenic Asheville Series: There are 9 hikes in the series; hike them all and receive an attractive badge for your backpack. I generally try to do the hikes in order, but when there are two in one week, I will put the longer hike on Thursday.

RSVP and On-Time Start:

If you decide you cannot come, please change your RSVP

If you must cancel, please change your status to "Not Going" as soon as possible so wait-listers can have sufficient notice.

There are generally 1 or 2 no-shows on my hikes, so we don't wait for people to arrive. If you are late, you'll be left behind.

Please note that there is never cell coverage at the start of the hike, so please change your RSVP as soon as you know you can't make it.

Notes and comments are genuinely appreciated.

Guests: Please ask guests to sign up for the hike themselves.

Disclaimer and Release of Liability:
This activity involves hiking on city streets that may have traffic. Participants are responsible for their safety on streets and trails. The organizer of this trip is a volunteer and not a professional guide. The function of the organizer is only to organize this trip. If you sign up or participate in this event you acknowledge that you freely and voluntarily agree to assume all risks of injuries, illnesses, and damages arising from, as a result of, and associated with this event. In addition, you acknowledge that you agree to the Meetup terms: https://4142298.xyz/terms
18 attendees+13

The Asheville Hiking Group