Where: Sam’s Knob, Flat Laurel Creek loop; Pisgah National Forest

Meet: Columbus, Food Lion parking area, east side, @ 8:30

5-miles, moderate; trail type – lollipop

Hikers will head to the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest off of Black Balsam Mountain Road, off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trail will lead hikers to the summit of Sam’s Knob for 360 degree views of the Shining Rock Wilderness then traverse through high elevation meadows, red oak and northern hardwood forests from about 5400 to 5800 feet elevation. Portions of the trail traverse along a former railroad bed.

Hikers will enjoy scenic, long-range views of the surrounding mountains at the onset of autumn.

Approximately 1.5 hour drive, one-way.

Contact [email protected] with additional questions.

Conserving Carolina is sponsoring a Friday hiking series this fall, free, guided, and open to the public. The hikes will meet at various locations (noted for each date) and will leave promptly at 8:45 a.m. Hikers should plan to return to the area in the late afternoon, time varying with group size, distance of hike, and drive time. Car-pooling will be organized at the meeting locations. If you’re coming from an area closer to the trailhead, please contact Pam Torlina (email above and number below) to make other meeting arrangements.

Be sure to wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water for yourself. In case of inclement weather, call the Conserving Carolina office, ext. 300, before 8:15 a.m. on the date of the hike, and/or check our Facebook page and calendar. Please also remember to bring any medication that you may need in the event of an emergency (ie: epinephrine, nitroglycerine, insulin, etc.). Hike leaders will carry a first aid kit; however, it may not contain specific medication for your individual needs.

Before each hike, you will be asked to sign a waiver form. For your safety, do not attempt any hike beyond your ability and experience. This schedule is subject to change.