Standing Indian and Albert Mountain Loop

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Standing Indian and Albert Mountain Loop

The Basics:

Event Type:

Backpacking

Event Location:

Deep Gap, NC

Backpacking: Standing Indian and Albert Mountain Loop

Date(s) & Time:

Fri, Oct 23 2026 3:00 pm >> Sun, Oct 25 2026 6:00 pm (Carpool Departure: 3:00 pm *log in for location*)

Registration Opens:

Mon, Oct 12 2026 6:00 pm

Registration Cut Off:

Fri, Oct 30 2026 7:42 am

Event Duration:

2 Days 3 Hours

Difficulty Rating:

D5: Difficult

Distance:

26 Miles

Pace:

Moderate

Trip Leader(s):

Jasmine

Email Trip Leader(s)
You must be logged in to get the Trip Leader contact information.

Member Cost:

None

Participant Info:

Who's Invited:

Members Only, 21 And Older Only

Maximum Group Size:

Minimum Group Size:

Number Registered So Far:

1 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)

Are Dogs Permitted:

Yes

Itinerary:

Spend a refreshing weekend backpacking adventure through the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. We'll begin by camping Friday night at Deep Gap, giving everyone a chance to relax, settle into the wilderness, and enjoy an evening under the stars before hitting the trail.

Saturday morning, we'll set off on a scenic Appalachian Trail loop that showcases some of the best mountain landscapes Western North Carolina has to offer. The route features a rewarding mix of moderate climbs, forested ridgelines, sweeping vistas, and classic Southern Appalachian backcountry. Along the way, we'll experience the solitude and beauty that make this section of the Appalachian Trail a favorite among backpackers.

This trip is ideal for hikers looking for a challenging yet achievable overnight wilderness experience. With miles of scenic trail, mountain views, and a night spent in the backcountry, you'll enjoy the perfect balance of adventure, camaraderie, and natural beauty before returning to our starting point on Sunday.

Although this is rated as a D5, this backpack is borderline high D5/low D6 depending on available water sources.

Trip Statistics

Total Estimated Mileage: 26.1 miles
Total Estimated Elevation Gain: 5,200 feet

For those parking at deep gap, it's strongly recommended not to leave any food in your vehicles.

The trip leader reserves the right to consider participant's past history and to make the final determination for participation on this hike.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS NOT A BEGINNER BACKPACK *** You must be in good physical condition and be able to hike long distances and keep a moderate pace. ***

Required Items to Bring:

Bear Canisters or Bear Hang

Backpack

Tent / hammock

Sleeping bag/Sleeping pad

Appropriate clothes

Rain gear

Cooking gear

Water filter / treatment

2-3 L Water and electrolytes per day

Food

Personal Toiletries

If carpooling, change of clothes and shoes

$Cash or Zelle for carpool and shuttle

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

How to Get There:

Carpool to Event Distance (round trip):

224Mile(s)

Carpool Departure Time:

3:00 pm

Carpool Location:

Carpool Directions:

Carpool Cost:

Estimated cost per vehicle for this event is $89.60 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:

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

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

Please review the AOC cancellation policy.

Registration for this event opens at 10/12/2026 6:00:00 PM