Sat, Jan 20 2018 - Woody Gap to Gooch Shelter and back. (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Chuck R Participants: Chuck R, RonnyJ (Call me Ron), Suzanne, Dave G, Steve, Adam, Suhas, Mark P, Eric, Mary Beth, Jeff Gimpel, Tom

Write Up:
We began the hike with 12 hikers. The temps started at 43 degrees and ended at 57 degrees. The trail conditions were muddy in some places. Starting the hike at Woody Gap with winds gusting at 40 mph, Ron called it Windy Gap which I thought was spot on! With the conditions like they were, I skip the pre hike briefing and stuck with the introductions and we all skirted for the trail. Once in the woods we found peace and conversation was back to normal. On the trail much to our surprise, to our south, we followed a wonderful valley for a good portion of the hike. Remember this can be only seen in the winter months. Soon the trail took us to Ramrock Mountain where there were several viewing rocks. As we looked southwest you can see Kennesaw Mountain and to the right you can also see the Atlanta skyline. After the views, we trekked on to Gooch Shelter passing Gooch Gap, ( great camp site) for lunch. While hearing great stories from Eric and Mark, we finished off the fig newtons thanks to JEFF and headed back to the trail. On our way back traffic picked up. We bumped into a well known hiking club with lots of familiar faces in the group. With the hugs, handshakes and our farewell goodbyes we set off to finish the hike. I would like to give a Shout out to The Women of Ellijay hiking club - you go girls! It was a good day with a good group of hikers. We would like to welcome Adam to the club. Cheers Chuck R.

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