When and Where:

Wednesday August 20th

Meet BRW parking lot by8:30AM. for a short briefing and to work out car-pooling. Leave 8:45AM for an approximate 1-1/2 hour drive to Mount Jefferson State Natural Area.

1489 Mt. Jefferson St. Park Rd., West Jeferson, NC -336-246-9653

Leaders: Susan and Terry Hayworth

RSVP: Sold Out

Limit: 28 - Sold Out!!!

Hiking Details:

Wednesday August 20th

The hike is the Rhododendron and Lost Province Trails, for a total of 1.8 miles. The All Trails App lists them as easy, but the map at the park lists them as moderate. So, they are easy-moderate, and linked together, so it’s a loop. This footing is different from the wide small gravel paths at Moses Cone, it’s a true forest trail through the woods, all shaded. I strongly recommend hiking sticks for this trip, as the state has put down gravel on one small section at the beginning (probably due to erosion), and you need to watch your step as there is an incline also. That area ends quickly, and then the trail is mostly dirt. Along the first part there are rocks with step-downs. And some roots, as this trail is totally wooded. The second part on the Lost Province Trail flattens out. There are a couple of overlooks, including one that we will drive to as we go to lunch.

Depending on your perspective, the star of the day will be visiting West Jefferson. It is a charming town with several restaurants, cute shops, galleries, ice cream, and the famous Ashe County Cheese Factory. I am going to try ot get maps of downtown for those that go on this hike.

Please read the “Important Information” included on the website.

Food and Lodging:

Food/Lodging/Return

Black Jack's’Pub and Grill’s, 18 N. Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, 336-246-3295

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