Siler Bald Classic Hike - 360 degree view at the top

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Siler Bald Classic Hike - 360 degree view at the top

The Basics:

Event Type:

Hike

Event Location:

Winding Stair Gap - 8 mi West of Franklin NC on US 64

Hike: Siler Bald Classic Hike - 360 degree view at the top

Date(s) & Time:

Wed, Jul 19 2023 9:00 am >> Wed, Jul 19 2023 3:00 pm (Carpool Departure: 7:00 am *log in for location*)

Registration Opens:

Sun, Jul 9 2023 10:00 am

Registration Cut Off:

Wed, Jul 19 2023 7:15 am

Event Duration:

6 Hours (Plus or Minus)

Difficulty Rating:

D4: Moderate to Difficult

Distance:

8 Miles

Pace:

Moderate

Trip Leader(s):

Tom Jarosz (Yah-rosz)

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Member Cost:

None

Participant Info:

Who's Invited:

Members Only, 21 And Older Only

Maximum Group Size:

Minimum Group Size:

Number Registered So Far:

4 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)

Are Dogs Permitted:

Yes

Itinerary:

***This is not a beginners hike

If you're looking for a classic hike with a stunning payoff, look no further than Siler Bald!

There are many scenic vistas on the Appalachian Trail within a couple hours driving time of Atlanta, but perhaps none more so than Siler Bald. With a summit of 5,216 feet and while there is almost 1500 feet in elevation gain, most of it is fairly gradual over four miles. The total distance hiked will be a little over eight miles.

The AT trail will take us near the grassy bald that offers a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains. You'll feel like you're on top of the world, literally. Just don't forget to pack a lunch and some sunscreen, because you'll want to stay awhile and enjoy the scenery. We will take a break for lunch at the top of the bald (20-30 minutes). You will definitely want to take a camera or binoculars for the views!

Although the total driving distance is close to 240 miles round trip, all of it is over major highways. So driving time should be no more than 2-2 ½ hours each way (We should be back in Atlanta betweeen 3-4 PM, plus or minus). Estimated hiking time: 4-5 hours.

One more thing...this hike is for fun-loving people and those who enjoy being around others. Some of us like to make jokes, tell stories, and have a good laugh. If you're easily offended or prefer a quiet walk in the park, this hike is probably not for you. You've been warned!

Notes:

1. On the drive to the trailhead and back, we will take a quick fuel/bathroom break in Clayton.

2. Itinerary is subject to change anytime at the discretion of the trip leader.

3. Please be flexible with finishing and start time. Things happen where our even may be longer or shorter.

4. Dogs allowed on this hike as long as they are kept on a leash.

5. Please do not feed the bears, pet the snakes, or hug the trees (My have poison ivy growing on them). They are not your friends. They are wild animals and plants that can hurt you or make you sick. Also, please do not litter, vandalize, or start fires. We want to leave this place as beautiful as we found it.

6. This is a carpool event, so please plan to carpool with the group to and from the event.

Required Items to Bring:

-2-3 liters water
-lunch and trail snacks
-Hiking boots or trail running shoes with excellent grips

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

-Hiking poles strongly recommended

-First aid kit or items

-Bug spray and sun screen

How to Get There:

Event Directions:

North on I-85. Take I-985 near Mall of Georgia. Continue on I-985. After 26 miles this intersate will become US 23. Continue on US 23 through Clayton GA and into North Carolina. At Franklin NC take exit to US 64 West. Continue eight miles until Winding Stairs Gap parking lot.

Carpool to Event Distance (round trip):

235Mile(s)

Carpool Departure Time:

7:00 am

Carpool Location:

Carpool Directions:

Carpool Cost:

Estimated cost per vehicle for this event is $94.00 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:

If you have any questions e-mail the Event Coordinator and save phone calls for the day of the event.

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

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

Late cancellations, particularly within 36 hours of the event make it difficult for those on the wait list to attend. Please be courteous to your fellow AOC members and cancel with as much notice as possible.