PAC kicks off its fall hiking series

Published 10:00 pm Friday, September 2, 2016

Join the Pacolet Area Conservancy (PAC) for five Friday hikes offered this fall, free of charge.

Starting Friday, Sept. 23, PAC’s first hike will head to Rainbow Falls accessed from Jones Gap State Park (part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area) in South Carolina. The five mile, strenuous, out and back hike will begin with a moderate walk along the Middle Saluda River and then ascend 1,000 feet over a distance of 1.6 miles to the base of the stunning 100 foot waterfall.

On Oct. 7, hikers will venture to DuPont State Forest for a three-mile, moderate, loop hike to Cedar Rock, a granitic bald that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains right at the onset of autumn.

Sign up for our daily email newsletter

Get the latest news sent to your inbox

On Oct. 21, hikers will head to Lookout Rock, located on the grounds of Montreat College, for a 4.7-mile moderate/strenuous, loop hike that will offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains in full fall color.

On Nov. 4, PAC offers a five mile, strenuous, loop hike to John Rock in Pisgah National Forest, for even more beautiful views of the surrounding mountains still speckled with autumn colors, including a view of Looking Glass Rock.

Finally, on Nov. 18, the hike will take place at Carl Sandburg National Historic Site. From the parking area, the trail ascends 1,000 feet to the summit of Glassy Mountain. Participants will enjoy a hike through the beautiful, mature forest, walking past ponds, and a spectacular view of Pisgah National Forest. The hike will be approximately four miles, moderate, and out and back. After the hike, consider visiting the historic residence and the prize-winning goats!

Also, PAC invites the public to participate in a hiking challenge. Complete all five Friday PAC hikes this fall and receive a custom bumper sticker acknowledging your accomplishment!

If you are interested in attending the PAC fall hikes and would like more information, please call the PAC office at 828-859-5060 or e-mail landprotection@pacolet.org.

You can also find information on pacolet.org and on PAC’s Facebook page, facebook.com/pacoletarea.conservancy.

– article submitted by Pam Torlina