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AUG 3 Max Patch, North Carolina. You are welcome to join our E.T. Chapter on this exciting hike to Max Patch Bald (it’s a hilltop without trees). Actually, it was cleared for grazing in the 19th century and remains “Bald” to this day. Max Patch has been called “the crown jewel of the Appalachian Trail”. The famous Appalachian Trail crosses at the top of Max Patch Bald. In addition to hiking the 1.5 moderately easy mile on the Max Patch Bald Loop, we will also take an excursion and hike approximately 1.8 moderately easy mile on the Appalachian Trail before completing the Max Patch Loop. Total mileage for this hike is 3.5 miles + or - . We will possibly encounter hikers who are in the process of trying to complete the AT. So be sure to bring water and snacks and plan to sit with us on the Bald where we can look to the East and see Mt. Mitchell and look to the west and see our own Great Smoky Mountain. We will meet at the Cracker Barrell parking lot located off the Strawberry Plains Exit of I-40 East at 8:00 am ET. We can carpool approximately 80 miles to the exit to Max Patch. At that exit, we will go 8 miles on very rough road. A vehicle with high clearance is advised. Don’t forget to bring $$$’s for carpooling. Pre-registration is required. Please pre-register with Rosie at 865.985.9144 or rosemary_L@hotmail.com.