Outing Alert
November 14th, 2018
Dog-Friendly Appalachian Trail Hike
Woody Gap to Lake Winfield Scott
Saturday, December 1st
 
Winter view from near Preacher Rock                    Photo by Jess Riddle
 
Hike Leader: ForestWatch Board member and District Leader Tom Colkett

Outing Description: We will hike from Woody Gap (3160' elevation) and work our way up one mile to the Preacher Rock outcrop that affords a great vista of the Blood Mountain Wilderness area. We will continue to near the top of Big Cedar Mountain (3721') before descending comfortably through Dan Gap and on to Miller Gap (3005') at mile 2.6. From here there is a mix of easy, level pathways and a couple of steep-ish climbs up and over two knobs of Burnett Field Mountain. These are moderate to strenuous switchback climbs. At mile 5.3 we will arrive at Jarrard Gap (3300') and then turn onto the Jarrard Gap trail, descending 1.2 miles to Lake Winfield Scott. 

Meeting Time and Place: Meet at 9:00am at the entrance to Lake Winfield Scott (by the fee station). Click here for Google map. We will drive together to the parking area by the lake at the bottom of the hill. We will leave half the cars here (there is a $5 parking fee, $2.50 if you have a senior card). Then we will shuttle in the remaining cars back up to the parking area at Woody Gap to begin our hike. Parking is available on both sides of the road.

Distance and Difficulty: Total hiking distance is about 7 miles; a mix of easy to moderately strenuous hiking. 

Duration: We will take our time, especially on the steeper inclines, so the hike will take 4 to 5 hours depending on the group.

Participant Limit: 12

What to Bring and Wear: Lunch, plenty of water, rain gear, sturdy footwear. If allergic to bees/wasps, remember to bring your meds/epi-pen. This is a winter hike, so dress in layers. You will tend to be warmer when climbing, but cool off during breaks.

Cancellation/Rain Date: Hikers will be notified if hike is canceled due to forecast of severe weather, etc.

Pet Policy: Friendly dogs are welcome, but with a limit of 5 for the whole group (first come/first served). Please, only one dog per person. Dogs must remain on leash on the Appalachian Trail. Please indicate at registration if you are bringing a dog.

Family Safe Policy: Georgia ForestWatch outings are a smoke, alcohol, and drug-free setting.

Sign up now!
Space is limited.
Reservations are required.

Our outings are free of charge and open to everyone on a first-come, first-served basis, up to the limit. BUT DON'T FORGET, Georgia ForestWatch members are always given priority on our hikes. To learn how you can become a member, click here.

To Reserve Your Spot
Please register using this link (for the best chance of securing a spot).
  1. Name of person(s)
  2. Your email address
  3. Your phone number (preferably cell if you will be carrying it on the outing day)
For more information on the hike, OR if you need directions on the day of the hike, please contact Tom Colkett here or call the phone number provided in your confirmation message

Upcoming Outings & Events in 2019
Mark Your Calendars!

Tuesday, January 1st - New Year's Day Hike & Potluck, location TBD - with Sue Harmon & Melanie Vickers

Thursday, February 14th - Wagon Train Trail Hike with BMTA - with Sue Harmon and Ken Cissna

Saturday, April 27th - Ramp Cove Wildflower Hike - with Jess Riddle

Saturday, May 4th - Martin Creek Falls Hike - with Ted Doll



 


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Georgia ForestWatch
81 Crown Mountain Pl
Building C, Suite 200
Dahlonega, GA 30533
706-867-0051 office

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