Conserving Carolina will host its first fall hike Friday, a 4-mile, moderate, loop hike in the Black Balsam Mountains in Pisgah National Forest.

Conserving Carolina’s southeast stewardship manager, Pam Torlina, will lead the hike.

Hikers will head to the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest off of Black Balsam Mountain Road, off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail follows the Ivestor Gap and Art Loeb trails, leading to the summit Tennent Mountain and Black Balsam Mountain.

Hikers will enjoy scenic, long-range views of the surrounding mountains at the onset of autumn, hike organizers said.

Those interested in attending the hike can meet at 8:30 a.m. at the east end of the Columbus Plaza Shopping Center, 250 West Mills St., Columbus (near Food Lion), to check in and start the approximately 1.5 hour drive to the parking area. Those coming from an area closer to the trailhead can contact Pam Torlina to make other meeting arrangements.

Participants should not attempt any hike beyond thier ability and experience. Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear, bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water, and make sure to bring any personal medication that they may require.

In case of inclement weather, interested hikers may contact Pam Torlina at 828-697-5777, ext. 300, or email her at pam@conservingcarolina by 8:15 a.m. on the day of the hike and/or check the Conserving Carolina Facebook page to see if the hike will take place.

Those interested in learning more about Conserving Carolina may visit conservingcarolina.org.

– Submitted by Pam Torlina