POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER UNTIL A LATER DATE

Experienced, fit hikers are invited to join the NC High Peaks Trail Association for a rigorous, 9-mile hike on the flanks of the Black Mountains on Saturday, April 8.

The hike will make a loop of the Bald Knob Ridge and Buncombe Horse Range Trails, and will feature a challenging climb of about 1,700 feet in elevation. Hikers will be treated to views of the rich cove hardwood forest near the headwaters of the South Toe River, along with the high-elevation Spruce/Fir habitat that thrives on the upper reaches of the Blacks.

Meet at the Rose’s Shopping Center parking lot at 8:30 a.m. on the corner overlooking US 19-E. The group will take a Yancey Transportation van for a donation of $5 per person, reservations required. The van should return the group to Rose’s by late afternoon.

Bring lunch, snacks, plenty of water, hiking poles if you use them, a warm jacket and rain gear if the forecast warrants. Leashed dogs are allowed on the hike but not on the county vans, so if you want to bring your pet you must arrange your own transportation.

Contact Hike Leader Jimmie Bowen at 252-450-5224 or jbowen6116@gmail.com to reserve your spot on the van or for more information.

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