Join NC High Peaks for a pleasant stroll to the Blue Ridge Pinnacle with an optional extra excursion to the Green Knob Fire Lookout on Friday, July 15.

The Pinnacle, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near the turn to Mt. Mitchell, offers outstanding, 360-degree views. The hike up is a moderate loop of about 2 miles with an elevation gain of about 500 feet with some rocky tread.

If the group feels like doing more, we’ll drive a short distance on the Parkway to an overlook near the Green Knob Fire Lookout. This stroll is less than a half-mile each way with a 300-foot elevation gain.

No van transportation will be provided. Strollers should meet at 9 a.m. at the Ridge Junction Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway, which is near Mile Marker 355, just before the turn-off to Mt. Mitchell State Park. Parking is very limited at the base of the Pinnacle, so we will carpool from the Overlook.

 Bring water, snacks, lunch and hiking poles if you use them. Leashed dogs are allowed. You might also bring a raincoat and even a light jacket depending on the weather forecast, which you should monitor before the outing.

For more information, contact Stroll Leader John Whitehouse at 682-3217 or trails@nchighpeaks.org.

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