Training Hike - Goshen Prong-Sugarland Mtn Loop +/- 4000' - Strenuous - 22 Mile

*** PLEASE READ THE WHOLE EVENT POSTING BEFORE YOU RSVP ***

TRAINING HIKES
We get requests for medium and high intensity hikes from those trying to build up their endurance and stamina, and increase their ability to do higher elevation hikes. This hike is a step up from the hikes we post for intermediate and seasoned hikers, but is a good option to stretch yourself a bit based upon your current abilities and goals.

HIKE SUMMARY
We'll push a 22 mile hike that will help Map Markers to get several trails that are hard to access on their own, while pushing to the limits of what most consider a day hike. We'll pick up Goshen Prong, Little River out-and-back to BC 30, and the greenbrier-infested Rough Creek.

This hike is not for the faint of heart. Please be realistic about your abilities to do such a hike.

QUALIFICATIONS
If you are comfortable hiking a 2.0-3.0 mph pace for a 15+ miles, with 3000+ feet of elevation change this hike may be the right challenge for you. It's a good opportunity to stretch your distance and elevation gain, which will open up more hiking events for you.

MEETING LOCATION
We will meet at the Clingmans Dome parking area at 8:00, do a quick gear check, and then drop a few shuttle cars at the Sugarlands Mountain TH ending parking area (if we haven't done so beforehand).

THE HIKE
22 miles +/-4000' elevation change - Strenuous - 10-11 hours

We'll head west from CD on the fairly civilized AT for about 2.5 miles to Goshen Prong, and then turn south for about 8 miles, dropping nearly 3000' to the Little River trail. We'll turn SE for 2.5 miles to BC 30, and then retrace our steps 1.8 miles to the Rough Creek junction.

We'll climb 1400' through a gauntlet of greenbrier to the Sugarland Mountain trail junction over the next 2.7 miles. Then we'll continue climbing another 1800' back up to Clingmans Dome road and the cars. This section has a fairly decent foot bed for much of the way, with an occasional climb over some downed trees. We should be off trail between 5:00-6:00, between sunset and twilight.

CAUTION
** There is a gnarly water crossing at BC 30, especially after a heavy rain. Hiking poles and water shoes are strongly recommended. **

WHAT TO BRING
Bring a day bag, with at least one liter of water, snacks, and an extra insulation layer, gloves, hat, and a waterproof coat. We always suggest carrying the 14 Essentials when going onto the woods.

Bring a headlamp in case we are delayed in getting off trail for some reason.

We'll go rain or shine.

LATECOMERS AND "NO-SHOWS"
It’s important that everyone is on time. You wouldn't want to get left behind because you’re running late. If your plans change and you can’t come on the hike please remember to change your RSVP so we’re not waiting for you or looking for you.

*** Failure to change your RSVP or let us know at least a day ahead of the hike's start time qualifies as a 'No-Show' for me, and you may not be able to hike with me in the future. ***

NAVIGATION
Goshen-Sugarland Mtn Map
Goshen-Sugarland Mtn Profile
Goshen-Sugarland Mtn GPS file [.gpx] [download only] =

Trail Slope Key