We will have more than 14 hours of daylight to complete this challenging but diverse hike of 15.7 miles with 3400 feet ascent with the CMC. After leaving cars at the Noland Divide trailhead on Clingmans Dome Rd. (on the left, 5.5 miles up Clingmans Dome Rd.), we will shuttle some cars back just 2 miles, to the Fork Ridge trailhead. We will begin in this unique spruce-fir forest, passing though stands of unlogged red spruce, dense rhododendron and laurel cover and into the lush streams of Deep Creek. After descending to and crossing Deep Creek (be prepared for a wet crossing), we will pick up Deep Creek trail for another 3.6 miles to Pole Road Creek trail. After 3.3 miles on the latter, we will take Noland Divide back up to Clingmans Dome Road. Although the circuit descends and then climbs nearly 3500 feet, we will be distracted and delighted by the variety of blooms at the different elevations, birdsong and tree canopy. Rated Difficult. Meet at the Noland Divide trailhead at 9AM, or at Sugarlands Visitor Center 8:15AM to carpool. $2.00 carpool fee from Sugarlands.

Leaders: Diane Petrilla and Cindy McJunkin

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