Where: Pisgah National Forest, Pisgah Ranger District with a view of Twin Falls

Meet: Ironwood Square, Conserving Carolina’s office, 847 Case Street, Hendersonville, NC, at 8:30 a.m.

UPDATE!

6.6-miles (possibly 7.2, if a section of road is still closed), moderate difficult (due to some creek crossings); trail type – lollipop

Approximately 50 minute drive

This hike will head to the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest for a 6.6-mile, moderate, loop-style hike to Twin Falls. This trek takes hikers along the Buckhorn Gap trail, paralleling Avery Creek and Henry Branch to Twin Falls trail for a view of Twin Falls, two waterfalls that are not parallel or even very close together.  The first waterfall is higher and has more water than the second, but both are beautiful in their own right. Hikers will return to Buckhorn Gap trail then traverse Clawhammer Cove Road to Clawhammer Cove trail, then to Avery Creek trail where, once again, we will be paralleling Avery Creek for a glimpse of Avery Creek Falls. Then, hikers will jump back on Buckhorn Gap trail and return to the parking area.

Due to flooding in August 2021, trail conditions have changed.  As of 2/20/22, there are still several bridges in place for crisscrossing creeks and streams but some have washed out. It is still possible to cross the water without getting wet (especially if your boots are waterproof), but there is the potential to get wet and the crossings would be considered challenging to some.  Additionally, the Park closed the road about a mile from the trailhead due to weather.  It may be open when we arrive and not an issue, but if it is closed, it will add about a mile of distance to the hike.  It is still a lovely walk on the road (no cars!), but due to these factors, the details of the hike needed to be updated.

Pre-registration is mandatory, and space is limited to 20 participants. RSVP below.

Contact [email protected] with additional questions.

Conserving Carolina is sponsoring a Friday hiking series this spring, 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, please contact Pam Torlina by email at: pam@conservingcarolina by 8:00 on the day of the hike and/or check the Conserving Carolina website ‘calendar’ and/or Facebook page to see if the hike will take place. 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.