June Ensemble, Part 1 Albert + Pickens (Different Trail) - Sat, Jun 20 2026

REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Once you've reviewed the event details, and decided you'd like to join us, you MUST sign up at the bottom of this page.



June Ensemble, Part 1 Albert + Pickens (Different Trail)


The Basics:
Event Type:Hike
Event Location: Long Creek Branch Trail   Hike: June Ensemble, Part 1 Albert + Pickens (Different Trail)  National Weather Service Forecast
Date(s) & Time:Sat, Jun 20 2026  9:00 am >> Sat, Jun 20 2026 4:30 pm
Registration Opens: Thu, Mar 12 2026 6:40 pm
Registration Cut Off: Thu, Mar 12 2026 11:59 pm
Event Duration:7 Hours 30 Minutes
Difficulty Rating:D5: Difficult (Exploratory)
Distance:16 Miles
Pace:Moderate
Trip Leader(s):
Deema
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Member Cost:None

Participant Info:
Who's Invited: Members Only, 21 And Older Only
Maximum Group Size:12
Minimum Group Size:4
Number Registered So Far: 12 / 1 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)
Are Dogs Permitted: No

Note: This is an "EXPLORATORY" trip. This means that there are parts of this trip, or perhaps the whole trip, that is new to your Trip Leader(s). However, they are confident that this will not be an issue.
This note is here so that you can make an informed decision. When a Trip Leader isn't personally familiar with a trip, there is an increased chance of things not going as planned and you need to be prepared. The Trip Leader may have additional details in the itinerary.

Itinerary:

 

It might feel a bit early to start registering for a day hike in June, but if you’re thinking of joining the two weekend hikes, it’s a good idea to book your place early for the accommodations.

I’ll be staying pretty close to the trailhead, and I’d be happy to share my accommodation plans if you’re interested in both hikes.

Prompt start 9am

Long Creek Branch Trail

 

We will climb 2300ft on our way up to Pickens Nose, where we will take a relaxed lunch break.

After that, we’ll head back around, which means we’ll climb Albert again. Then, we’ll enjoy a leisurely 5.5-mile descent back to the cars.

Long Creek Branch has a few shallow creek crossings where you can have some fun rock hopping. No need to bring water shoes!

16 miles

3200 ft elevation gain

 

PACE

While some would still consider it fast-ish”, professional hikers would say it’s a moderate pace. 

 

CARPOOL

I will try to help and match people to ride together if they are interested in joining one or both hikes, but there is no official carpool as I will not be able to attend.

 


Required Items to Bring:

- Plenty of water             

- Sun Protection

- Bug Spray (maybe)

- Poison Ivy Wipes (if it's your thing)

- Lunch & Snacks

Recommended Items to Bring:
Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.

How to Get There:
Event Directions:

 

Parking is at the Backcountry kiosk/booth and not campgound parking. The signs are visible.

Google map address (yes they did misspell the road name): 1977 Saintnding Indian Rd, Franklin, NC 28734

Click here for directions


Notes:


* We encourage all members to follow our Etiquette Guidelines while participating in AOC events.


Cancellation/Partial Attendance:   Please review the AOC cancellation policy.