Experienced, fit hikers are invited to join High Peaks for an extremely strenuous adventure on the Black Mountain Crest Trail on Friday, Dec. 2.

This all-day hike of 9 miles will go up the Woody Ridge Trail, south along the Crest Trail over Winter Star Peak to Deep Gap and then back down the Colbert Ridge Trail. Only seasoned, tough hikers should try this, and they should be prepared for weather conditions that may include sub-zero windchills and icy trail conditions.

Because of the long hike and short daylight hours, the group will assemble at the Colbert Ridge Trailhead at 7:00 a.m. and will carpool to the Woody Ridge Trailhead. The climb up Woody Ridge is nearly 4,000 feet, and includes scrambling over rock faces that can be extremely hazardous if wet or icy. Dogs are not allowed on this hike because of the difficult terrain.

Bring hiking poles, water, lunch, snacks, layers of warm clothing, rain gear,  traction attachments for boots in case of ice and a battery headlamp in case things take longer than expected.

Participants must contact Hike Leader Chad Goare in advance for approval to join the group at 720-244-3971 or cgoare@gmail.com.

As always, check the High Peaks Facebook page or website, www.nchighpeaks.org, for last-minute changes due to the weather.

Photo Info: Hikers may be treated to views like this from the Black Mountain Crest Trail on the Dec. 2 High Peaks hike.