Hike and picnic on September 7
Description of the hike: The hike is approximately 0.8 miles each way (“in and out hike”), for a total of 1.6 miles. It is of moderate difficulty, and suitable for all ages. It will take about 60 to 90 minutes. The hike starts at the far end (north end) of the parking area at the Craggy Gardens Picnic area, at a point marked “Craggy Gardens Trail”. The trail follows the Mountains-to-Sea Trail to the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center and Gift Shop. Along the way, there are good viewpoints from a scenic gazebo and a historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) shelter. The trail is well maintained and has some gradual uphill and downhill each way.
Picnic: There is ample space at the site for our group to enjoy a picnic, with many tables and grills available. Please bring your own lunch and beverage (chairs are not necessary). We plan to picnic from about 12 to 1 pm. Those who choose to pass up the hike can socialize and enjoy a longer picnic, at the scenic picnic grounds.
Directions and parking: The Craggy Gardens Picnic Area is reached via the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP), going north. The turnoff from the BRP is between mile markers 368 and 367 (milepost 367.6, to be exact). The turn is well-marked on the parkway. Turn left off the parkway, and the picnic area is at the end of the access road, about 2 minutes from the BRP. There is a huge parking area.
From Craven Gap, at mile marker 377 on the BRP, the drive is approx. 11 miles, taking about 20 minutes. Craven Gap can be reached either from Town Mountain Rd., from the BRP, or Beaverdam Road. From Pack Square, you can plan on about 35 to 40 minutes drive time
There are toilet facilities at both ends of the hike.
Remember to wear suitable shoes.
If the weather does not cooperate and the activity has to be canceled, a notice will be emailed by 8:30 a.m. on the Saturday of the hike.
Where:
Craggy Gardens Picnic Area: Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 367.6
3676 Blue Ridge Pkwy
Barnardsville, NC 28709
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