Try this adventure combination of a bicycle ride and an off-trail hike in the Balsam Mountain section of the Smokies! Add another feature of winter weather which might be your best outdoor experience of the season. We will meet at the closed gate on Straight Fork and shuttle to the Masonic Marker on the Blue Ridge Parkway (if it's open) or an alternative location if it's closed. We will bike 20 miles, on a combination of paved and gravel roads. Along the way, we will stop at Beech Gap to explore an old railroad grade with lots of artifacts and a logging camp, which is about three miles of foot travel round trip. Some additional considerations for the hike include the obvious need for a bicycle that is functional and participation in a long shuttle ride. Previous off-trail experience encouraged. Please contact trip leader to get details, including meeting time and place.

Pre-registration is required. Masks are now required for all those participating in carpools, shuttles or key swaps, regardless of vaccination status. You may also choose to drive your own vehicle to the trailhead.

Leaders: Cindy McJunkin and Mike Knies

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.