Sun, Sep 29 2013 - Blood Mountain, Byron Reece and Freeman Trails (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): John Stirman, Chad C Participants: Albert, Chad C, John Stirman, Jenelle, Linda Bratton Haynes, Bonnie R, Lori McC, Mark W, Sunnie

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     Chad ordered up perfect weather for a wonderful hiking adventure at beautiful Blood Mountain… but first we had to get by 100s of cyclists participating in the Six Gap Century & Three Gap Fifty – a 100 mile cycling route that covers 6 of the steepest climbs in the N. Georgia Mountains!  Once we finally arrived, Chad kept us moving at a very brisk pace as we headed up the mountain for the spectacular views. Hats off to Mark – though arriving 15 minutes after the rest of us started (due to the bikers); he still managed to take the AT trail up the mountain and arrive at the same moment we got to the shelter (we had taken a different route)!  The cool weather and great company made for an awesome day for hiking friends – both old and new.  We also welcomed back to the AOC Lori who rejoined after a few years absence.  Once completing the hike, all nine Happy Hikers spiced thing up a bit with a tasty lunch at Pueblos in Dahlonega (one of us definitly spiced it up a bit more than the rest of us)!  Perhaps the best pic of the day shows Sunnie taking in the great beauty that is found on Blood Mountian - here is to never losing the wonder of the outdoors!

- A Happy Hiker