Sun, Nov 26 2017 - Rabun Bald via Beegum Gap to rock lookout (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Dorothea, Mike S Participants: Dorothea, Mike S, Ken, Allen D, Bunnie, Jon Duresky, Charles, Jeff Gimpel, Ralph Howard, Ann

The 4^th time was the charm.  After 3 rain outs, the hiking gods picked the perfect day for this hike.  We started our climb at the secluded Beegum Gap trail head.  We had cool crisp temps for our initial 1.6 mile climb to the top of Rabun Bald.  When we got to the top, we were treated to crystal clear skys and a 360’ view of the Georgia and North Carolina mountains.  We then proceeded down the other side of Rabun Bald and over Flat Top mountain to 2 hidden overlooks, on opposite sides of the ridge.  We enjoyed the views while we at lunch at one of the overlooks.  After lunch, we did some trail maintenance removing a large branch obstructing the trail.  Half the group took turns sawing, while the other half added management support.  We then retraced our steps over Flat Top and Rabun Bald, back to Beegum Gap.  We had absolute perfect conditions to cover 10 miles and 2800 feet of total elevation change on the Bartum Trail.  The event was topped off with the obligatory La Pachanga dinner in Clayton.