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Siler Bald Backpack (2 nights over LABOR DAY weekend)


The Basics:
Event Type:Backpacking
Event Location: Winding Stair Gap - 8 mi West of Franklin NC on US 64
Date(s) & Time:Sat, Sep 5 2009  11:30 am >> N/A  (Carpool Departure: 9:00 am   *log in for location*)
Registration Opens: Mon, Aug 17 2009 9:00 pm
Registration Cut Off: Tue, Sep 1 2009 9:00 pm
Event Duration:3 Days
Difficulty Rating:D4: Moderate to Difficult
Trip Leader(s):
Kiran
Chris L
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Member Cost:None

Participant Info:
Who's Invited: Members Only, 21 And Older Only
Maximum Group Size:12
Minimum Group Size:6
Number Registered So Far: 11 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)
Are Dogs Permitted: No

Itinerary:

DAY ONE (Sept 5): One of the most spectacular vistas on the South Eastern section of the Appalachian Trail, Siler Bald sits on the North Carolina/Tennessee border at a cozy 5607 feet above sea level. Our plan is to backpack the 4.5 mile approach trail from Winding Stair Gap to Siler Bald, where we will set up camp and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Elevation gain: 1250 feet
Total distance: 4.5 miles.



DAY TWO (Sept 6): On the following day, after breakfast, we leave camp for a day hike on the AT through Wayah Gap to the stone lookout tower at Wayah Bald where we will have lunch. This historic landmark offers more panoramic views of the Southern Appalachians. We return to Siler Bald for dinner.
Elevation gain: 2500 feet
Total distance: 11.8 miles.







Courtesy of Beth ColemanDAY THREE (Sept 7): After breakfast, we break camp, hike the 4.5 miles back to our vehicles and return to Atlanta (lunch stop optional) to enjoy the rest of Labor Day in town!

If you have any questions, please e-mail or contact the Event Coordinators before the event.

Required Items to Bring:

Backpacking Essentials 

  • Backpack and small day pack
  • Sturdy hiking boots, socks, and liners
  • Tent
  • Sleeping bag
  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • 2 breakfasts, 2 trail lunches, and 2 dinners
  • Stove (If you don't have one, prearrange to share!)
  • Trail snacks
  • 2 liters of water (Water source available - Trip leaders have filters)
  • Rain Gear/poncho
  • Toiletries
  • Whistle and First Aid kit
  • a sense of humor!
    		• Recommended Items to Bring:
    Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.
  • Hiking Poles
  • Warmer clothing: thermals and fleece (It gets chilly on a mountain at 5,000 feet)

    • How to Get There:
    Event Directions:1. Travel North on I-85.
    2. Take I-985 near Mall of Georgia.
    3. After 26 miles I-985 will become US 23.
    4. Continue on US 23 through Clayton GA and into North Carolina.
    5. At Franklin NC take exit to US 64 West.
    6. Continue EIGHT (8) miles until Winding Stairs Gap parking lot.

    The total driving distance is approximately 240 miles round trip, all of it is over major highways. Driving time is no more than 2-2 ½ hours each way.
    Carpool to Event Distance (round trip):240Mile(s)
    Carpool Departure Time: 9:00 am
    Carpool Location:   Log in for location
    Carpool Directions:   Log in for directions
    Carpool Cost: Estimated cost per vehicle for this event is $96.00 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:
    If you have any questions, please e-mail the Trip Leaders, and save phone calls for the day of the event.
    * We encourage all members to follow our Etiquette Guidelines while participating in AOC events.


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