This is a beautiful loop hike using Hemphill Bald, Caldwell Fork, and Rough Fork trails out of the Balsam Mountain section of the Smokies. You will be able to check out Hemphill Bald and parts of the Cataloochee that are along the park boundary. The trail enjoys fantastic views of the Caldwell Fork Valley. As we proceed down the trail into the park we will stop at the Big Poplar and then continue climbing Caldwell Fork Trail to Rough Fork. The climbing will level out once we reach the old railroad bed of Rough Fork. Hike is 13.7 miles. Total descent and ascent 3300 feet. Rated difficult. Trailhead is at Polls Gap off Heintooga Ridge Road starting at 8:30 a.m. Leader will e-mail registrants with directions to trailhead. Carpool from Cracker Barrel off the Strawberry Plains exit 398 of I-40, leaving at 6:30 a.m. Roundtrip mileage of 200 miles at 10 cents/mile = $20.

Leader: Randy Mitchell

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.