Ok I just found out I actually have Thursday off! Anyone up for a Christmas Eve day hike? Then we can head over to Lake Lanier to see the Magical Nights of Lights.

This is one of the most scenic sections of the Bartram Trail just north of Highlands. It's an outstanding day hike along a rarely traversed ridge with spectacular summits and overlooks. There are a series of granite outcrops to explore as well.

Our trail first passes through a wildlife plot then ascends a short distance to our first great view from Jones Knob (picture above). From here we'll continue through the fern covered forest, rhododendron, then moss covered ledges. There are a few views from some granite domes along the way. We then gradually slab up the eastern side of Whiterock Mountain. A short side trail makes a neat passage between rocks to expansive views north along the ridge from a dome on the 4,480 foot summit. We'll continue on through White Oak forest up to 4,748 foot Fishhawk Mountain where we'll find a plaque commemorating Bartram's travels.

All are invited to join us at the Lanier Lights afterward. If anyone has a van or SUV please bring it to the carpool at least. Lanier charges per car but we can load up to 9 persons in each vehicle.

It's likely too long a drive for Asheville. Greenville is welcome to join us if you don't mind getting back a little late. It's about 2 hours drive back to Greenville. I estimate you'd be back home around 11pm.

I've turned the waiting list on. Do RSVP if the event is full as I will allocate further spots depending on turnout from the other cities.

Please note this is an all day trip. With drive and hiking time plus Lake Lanier (if you come) we'll be getting back home late evening. So please plan for a full but leisurely day!

Required Items: Hiking Shoes and Cold Weather Hiking Attire, Water - 2 liters, Lunch and Snacks
Recommended Items: Camera, Trekking Poles, a Smile!

Distance: 6.2miles total
Type: Out and Back
Terrain: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Rating: Moderate
Expected Pace: Moderate 2mph
Expected Duration: 3 hrs

Drive time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Carpool Location: REI at 31 Schenck Parkway, Asheville, NC 28803.
Carpool Time: 9:30am with departure at 9:45am sharp. We cannot wait for those arriving late. Please be gassed up and ready to go!

Carpool Costs: Your driver will determine the actual costs and divide among riders. Please be courteous and pay your driver. Distance is 124 miles round trip. Approximate cost is $5 per person. Assumes 20mpg and 4 persons per vehicle.

Note: This is a cold weather hike. Please be prepared with layered clothing, gloves, and head cover. There is also the possibility of snow and ice on terrain. Prper footwear and trekking poles are highly recommended. The current FORECAST calls for variable cloudiness with some snow showers. The high is 40 degrees though so it will not stick and the trails will be passable. Should be beautiful!