Sat, Feb 8 2014 - Cohutta Wilderness Backpacking - Penitentiary Branch Trail (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Mike Pawloski Participants: Mike Pawloski, Greg Pries, Linda F, Bob J, Kathy Malone, Kristi, Vern K, Stefan, Terry, Celio, Don

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On Saturday, February 8, 2014 nine members of the Atlanta Outdoor Club (AOC) set out on a backpacking trip to the Cohutta Wilderness Area near Blue Ridge, GA. It was a fairly easy ~4 mile hike in. We had a great site along the river. The first surprise came when Greg broke out the 5l mini-keg of New Castle Brown Ale he carried in! After cutting firewood we decided against hiking to the falls due to the high river conditions - plus, we had some beer to quaff!. This afforded us the opportunity to bask in a warm fire, throw sticks for Cedar, and enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship that goes with good friends together in a wilderness setting. The next day the drive out from the Dally Gap parking area was a harrowing experience, to put it mildly. Road conditions had deteriorated due to above-freezing temps making for muddy and slippery conditions along the narrow mountain road. Thankfully, we all made it out safe. All-in-all, a fun trip with a great group of people - already looking forward to the next one!!