This will be a key swap. This high-elevation hike should provide a respite from valley heat. We will hike through AT sections that our club maintains and through a beautiful conifer forest accented by moss-covered logs and ferns.

Moderate going down, Difficult going up. 7.9 miles on the AT. Elevation gain: 2691 feet going up or 1141 feet going down.

To carpool, meet at Kroger in Alcoa, 244 S. Hall Rd., at the SE end of the building, near the old KARM store, and park around the side of the building, ready to leave at 7:00. Drive 100 miles RT {@ 7¢ = $7.00}. Or, meet at Newfound Gap at 8:30. Leader will meet at Newfound Gap.