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Backpacking: Rough Ridge & Jacks River (w/ optional hike to Jacks Falls)




The Basics:
Event Type:Backpacking
Event Location: Beautiful Cohutta Wilderness
(E. Cowpen to Rough Ridge, Jacks Falls, Jacks River Trail to Dally Gap)

Date(s) & Time:Sat, Jul 25 2009  7:00 am >> N/A  (Carpool Departure: 7:05 am   *log in for location*)
Registration Opens: Mon, Jun 22 2009 10:00 pm
Registration Cut Off: Thu, Jul 23 2009 9:00 pm
Event Duration:Per Itinerary
Difficulty Rating:D5: Difficult
Trip Leader(s):
Paula Schubert
Christopher Bolton
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Member Cost:None

Participant Info:
Who's Invited: Members Only, 21 And Older Only
Maximum Group Size:10
Minimum Group Size:4
Number Registered So Far: 8 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)
Are Dogs Permitted: No

Itinerary:
Come join us for this annual backpacking trip to Jacks River/Falls via the Rough Ridge Trail.

Our adventure begins at the Three Forks trailhead, but this trip will require a car shuttle. We'll be hiking in on E. Cowpen (.4 miles) to the Rough Ridge Trail.   Rough Ridge is a 7 mile trail rated moderate to strenuous due to the elevation change, which it loses 2140 ft. from start to finish. This ridge trail descends to a hardwood cove and then around the 4th mile becomes very steep and sometimes rocky as it continues to descend to Rough Creek. Hiking poles/stick are suggested because of the steep descend and narrowing trail.

At the end of Rough Ridge, we'll set up camp in a secluded campsite near Jacks river, relax and enjoy everyone's company. I highly recommend venturing to Jacks Falls. It's optional, but only one river crossing and 1.2 miles downstream (north) from camp. Believe me, it's well worth this short hike along the river and offers a great swimming hole for those wanting to cool off. We'll also have a good spot to swim near camp too.

Our adventure doesn't stop on Saturday because Sunday we'll pack up and head upstream (south) on the Jacks River trail, where we'll cross Jacks river 19 times. Hiking poles/stick are required for the crossings. The last 2.3 miles after the last river crossing is through a beautiful hardwood forest where our hike ends at Dally Gap. From here, we'll shuttle back to Three forks trailhead for the other vehicles.


Please make sure you are in good shape and can hike long distances. We'll be keeping a pretty moderate pace both days of hiking. 

Required Items to Bring:
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Bring lunch and dinner for Saturday and breakfast and lunch for Sunday.
  • Trail snacks
  • 2 liters of water (I'll also have my filter)
  • Good hiking boots
  • Hiking Poles/hiking stick are mandatory for river crossings.
  • River shoes or Tevas if you choose to change shoes for the duration of the river crossings. (Please wear something you are comfortable crossing the river and hiking in for approx. 6 of the 8 mile stretch on Sunday because remember, you'll have your backpack on too!)
  • Rain Gear/poncho
  • Recommended Items to Bring:
    Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Hat for sunny days
  • Bathing suit and towel for swimming


  • How to Get There:
    Event Directions:Will give directions out at carpool.
    Carpool to Event Distance (round trip):180Mile(s)
    Carpool Departure Time: 7:05 am
    Carpool Location:   Log in for location
    Carpool Directions:   Log in for directions
    Carpool Cost: Estimated cost per vehicle for this event is $72.00 using a reimbursement rate guideline of $0.400 per mile. The total amount should be divided by the number of people in the vehicle, including the driver. This is a guideline, not a rule, for drivers but the cost should not be higher unless there are extenuating circumstances.

    Notes:

    Will this event occur rain or shine? No, not in severe weather.


    Are dogs allowed?  NO, but please email trip leader for exceptions to the rule. :)



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

    Cost Includes:Please bring cash for sharing gas expenses with carpool drivers.

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