A Winter Wander around Big Meadows ~9.3 miles / 1600 feet elevation

Please join us for this hike around the Big Meadows area. There probably won't be snow but it will be cold enough to call this a winter wander.
We will start the hike on the AT from Milam gap. Once we reach the Lewis Springs Falls Trail we will turn left and follow it to the falls where we may or may not see some frozen water. We will back track from the falls and continue to follow Lewis Springs Falls Trail until it reconnects with the AT. We will then continue to follow the AT to the north around (or through) Fisher's Gap, crossing Skyline Drive and picking up the Skyland - Big Meadows Horse Trail to head back south - re-crossing Skyline Dr. The horse trail intersects with the Story of the Forest Trail which we will follow to the Big Meadows Visitor Center. We will meander across the Visitor Center and Wayside parking area and walk a short distance on Skyline Drive to Tanner's Ridge Fire Rd. We will walk down the Fire Road until it intersects with the AT where we will turn left to head back to Milam Gap and our cars.
There will be an optional post hike at Karen's house - inside - in front of the fire. Bring a beverage of your choice and a snack at your discretion.
Parking: Milam Gap Parking
Hike: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/wander-around-big-meadows-d1c373a?u=i&sh=jbc54i

Disclaimer: GetHiking Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. With your RSVP you agree to participate at your own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to your property and/or any injury to yourself or your guest. When joining GetHiking you affirm that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of/or related to this event against the organizers of this group.
Weather: If inclement weather necessitates canceling or postponing the hike, the decision will be made no later than 7:00AM - cancellations will be posted on the hike comments section. Steady rain with not much chance of clearing and/or dangerous conditions will call for postponing the hike.
RSVP: If you find that you are NOT going to be able to attend the hike, please update your RSVP to “No” as soon as possible. This allows those on the waitlist to have the opportunity to attend.
Recommended items - Broken in Hiking Boots, Trekking Poles, Lunch/Snacks, 2-3 Liters of Water, Good Day Pack, Layers of Clothing for Colder Winter Weather,