We will meet at Newfound Gap and shuttle down to the Alum Cave trail. This is a popular trail, so we need to arrive early to get a parking spot near the trailhead. On the way up, we will pass the bluffs, Arch Rock, and look for the Eye of the Needle. Then we’ll take the Boulevard trail to the A.T. and out to Newfound Gap.

The hike is 13 miles with a total climb of 4300 feet and a total descent of 3140 feet. Rated difficult. Hikers should be regularly hiking 8 miles or more with continuous elevation gains of 500 feet per mile for 5 miles and be comfortable maintaining a 2.0-2.5 mph pace for 10 miles.

Meet to carpool at the Cracker Barrel, 1510 Cracker Barrel Lane, Knoxville (exit 398 I-40). Be ready to leave at 5:15 A.M. The drive to Newfound Gap via I-40, 66 (exit 407), 441 is 96 miles round trip. $0.07/mile = $6.72 rounded up to $7.00 cash for the driver.

Alternatively, meet at the Newfound Gap parking lot at 7:00 A.M. The hike leader will meet everyone at Newfound Gap. Email the hike leader after you register with your choice of meeting location.

Leaders: Neil Snepp | nsnepp@comcast.net