Cooler Times - Siler Bald Classic AT Hike with a 360-degree view at the top

For new members and/or members without recent AOC D4 hiking related experience, trip leader's approval is required to participate in this event. Please email the trip leader explaining your recent hiking related experience & history. You may be moved to the waiting list until we hear back from you and approve you for the hike.

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If you're looking for a classic hike with a stunning payoff, look no further than Siler Bald! September is a cooler time to hike on the AT in North Carolina!

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. While there is almost 1,500 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. Driving time should be no more than 2-2 ˝ hours each way (You should be back in Atlanta mid afternoon, plus or minus). Estimated hiking time: 4.5 +/- hours including lunch break (Please be flexible on time.).

One more thing...with Tom as the trip leader, you know this will definitely not be a silent hike. :)

Notes:

1.This is NOT a carpool event.

2. On your drive to the trailhead and back, you may want to take a quick fuel/bathroom break at Ingles store in Clayton.

3. Itinerary is subject to change anytime at the discretion of the trip leader(s).

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

5. Dogs allowed on this hike as long as they are kept on a leash and hiker friendly.

6. Please do not feed the bears, pet the snakes, or hug the trees. 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.

7. If you're a Garmin user, please join our 'Atlanta Outdoor Club (AOC) Garmin Users' group to connect with other AOC Garmin users and track your activity.  Join us at: https://connect.gar min.com/modern/group/2255568

North on I-85. Take I-985 near Mall of Georgia. Continue on I-985. After 26 miles this interstate will become US 23. Continue on US 23 through Clayton, GA and into North Carolina. At Franklin, NC take the exit to US 64 West. Continue for eight miles until you reach Winding Stair Gap parking lot on your left. We will meet in the parking lot.

If you have any questions, please e-mail the Trip Leader(s).

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.