Date: Friday, March 20, 2020
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Leader(s): Ken Cissna, BMTA
Location: Brasstown Bald
Outing Description: Ken Cissna of Benton MacKaye Trail Association will be leading this hike in the Brasstown Wilderness on Brasstown Bald.
After a short climb from Brasstown Bald Visitors Center, it is 2 miles of gentle downhill on the Wagon Train Trail to the overlook, and then we will return to the parking area. Hearty hikers in the crowd have the option to add another mile (0.5 mi up and 0.5 mi back) to the Observation Deck/Tower and the spectacular 360-degree views. Besides the views, we’ll enjoy the high elevation yellow birch trees and maybe even some dazzling ice formations along the steep roadsides of the trail.
Meeting Place Directions: Meet at 10:00 am in the center of the parking lot on top of Brasstown Bald. Park near the individual restroom facilities (vault toilets) that are in the parking lot, not the large ones up near the store/office, as they will be locked. Brasstown Bald requires a parking pass. There is a drop box to pay a day user fee of $3 via an envelope, or you can display your Inter agency/Golden Senior or Access Pass on the dash of your vehicle.
The turn off for Brasstown Bald is on GA 180 which runs between Hwy 19 and Hwy 75.
See meeting place on Google Maps
Distance and Difficulty: Hike is 4 to 5 miles, depending on whether you add the climb to the Tower. The Wagon Train Trail has typical rocks and roots and is an old gravel road bed. The Tower Trail is asphalt. Moderate pace.
What to Bring and Wear: Lunch, plenty of water, rain gear, and sturdy footwear. If allergic to bees/wasps, remember to bring your meds/epi-pen.
Cancellation: Hikers will be notified via email by 6 pm the evening before the hike, if outing is canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
Pet Policy: Only one dog per hiker – must be on a leash and well-trained.
Participate limit: 10