A person could get used to this weather, no? Temperatures in the 70s, sunny skies, crisp, dry air … . Just the incentive for getting out in the wild. We have some thoughts on the subject of where you might explore this weekend — and suggestions for where you can find more options. Just be sure to get out and enjoy!
Ranger-Led Hike on the Renovated Nuwati Trail, Saturday, 1-4 p.m., Grandfather Mountain State Park, Banner Elk. Storms a year ago put the hurt on trails throughout the high country, including those at Grandfather Mountain. The Nuwati and Cragway trails in particular were hammered, forcing their closure while they could be rerouted. That process has been completed, and Ranger Musumarra will be leading a hike on the new trail Saturday afternoon. Sturdy footwear, snacks and water are advised, as is clothing appropriate for the weather, which as of late Thursday was looking cool (low 60s) and sunny. Learn more here.
Wolf Rock Hike, Saturday, 1:30 p.m., Stone Mountain State Park, Roaring Gap. At Stone Mountain State Park, Stone Mountain gets all the attention: it’s always “Stone Mountain this,” and “Stone Mountain that” … . Honestly, you’d think the park’s other mountains might develop a complex. Not Wolf Rock, another extensive slab surface which is accessed via a gradually climbing trail and offers great views to the north and west. About 3 miles hiking total, bring water and snacks. Learn more and sign up here.
Full Moon Hike, Sunday, 8 p.m., Medoc Mountain State Park, Hollister. If you’re one of those types who seeks to squeeze every last minute out of the weekend, then check out this last-call hike at Medoc Mountain State Park northeast of Raleigh. In fact, head up early, while the sun’s still up, and check out the park’s 10 miles of mostly gently rolling trails before hiking under the lights (those lights being the headlamps you provide). If you’re going, please let Heidi know by calling 252.586.1770. Learn more about the hike and the park here.
GetHiking! this weekend
What are our GetHiking! groups in North Carolina and Virginia up to this weekend? Plenty, thanks for asking … .
GetHiking! Charlottesville: Appalachian Trail to Rt. 60, Saturday, October 12, 8 a.m., Fontaine Research Park, Charlottesville. Strenuous. 11-miles. Hike highlights: Appalachian Trail, Cow Camp Gap Shelter, Cow Camp Gap. Learn more here.
GetHiking! Charlotte: Crowders Mountain Figure Eight, Saturday, October 13, 8 a.m. Crowders Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain. 8-miles through the peaks of Crowders Mountain and Pinnacle Mountain. Learn more here.
GetHiking! Charlottesville: Cole Mountain Hike, Sunday, October 13, 9 a.m., Barracks Road Shopping Center, Charlottesville. Moderately Strenuous. 6-mile hike leading up to the peak of Cole Mountain. Learn more here.
GetHiking! Triangle: Sunday Morning on the MST, Sunday, October 13, 9 a.m., Bayleaf Church Road, Raleigh. Moderate. 5.8-mile hike through flat terrain and cool air. Learn more here.
Live the video
The Wilson Creek area on the southeast flank of Grandfather Mountain doesn’t get near the attention you might expect, what with its view-giving cliffs, its ubiquitous waterfalls, it’s multiple pools. Learn about this awesome area, much of which is a Wilderness Study Area, and plan your own visit, starting here.
More weekend options
Looking for more options for weekend adventure? Check out our GetOut! Find An Adventure resource page here.