The Friends of the Smokies are hosting a fall color hike along Bradley Fork and Chasteen Creek Trails to marvel at the changing leaves, late fall flowers, and a tumbling waterfall. On Tuesday, Oct. 15 hiking expert, author of two regional hiking guide books (plus new book on her hike of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail), and Friend of the Smokies volunteer Danny Bernstein returns to lead this 7-mile out and back hike. The hike is moderate in difficulty with a total ascent of 1,200 ft. and partially follows an old roadbed beside the creek. After the downhill return, participants can get an early jump on their holiday shopping at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and in nearby Cherokee.
In celebration Friends of the Smokies’ 20th anniversary, this hike along the cool and clear Chasteen Creek will focus on water quality improvements within GSMNP. Donations to Friends help to support water quality monitoring projects within the Park which are part of the effort to reduce the environmental impact of airborne acid.
Participants will gather to carpool to the all day excursion in Asheville, Maggie Valley, and the Park.
In support of the Smokies Trails Forever program, a donation of $10 from current members and $35 from non-members is requested. Non-members receive a complimentary membership to Friends of the Smokies. Members who bring a friend hike for free.
To register for this hike or any Classic Hike held monthly on the third Tuesday, contact Friends of the Smokies at outreach.nc@friendsofthesmokies.org or (828) 452-0720. For a complete list of the Classic Hikes, visit friendsofthesmokies.org. Information about support for trail improvements in GSMNP may be found at smokiestrailsforever.org.
– Friends of the Smokies
