Fit, experienced hikers are invited to join the NC High Peaks Trail Association for a challenging 12-mile hike on the Buncombe Horse Range Trail on Friday, Sept. 6. The outing should offer nice views of the Toe River Valley from Maple Camp Bald.

Hikers should meet at the Buncombe Horse Trail-head off Colbert Creek Road at 8:30 a.m. We’ll take a Yancey Transportation van, $5 per person, up to NC 128 near Mt. Mitchell for the start of the hike.

Bring lots of food and water, hiking poles if you use them and rain gear if the forecast looks threatening. Leashed dogs are allowed on the hike but not on the vans, so if you want to bring your pooch you must provide your own transportation.

The outing should take 8 hours, possibly more.

Hikers are required to contact Hike Leader Jimmie Bowen at Jimmie@nchighpeaks.org or 252-450-5224 to reserve a seat on the van and to let him know you will attend.

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