Friday night we set up camp and gathered around the fire to share chips, hummus and of course S’mores. There was spirited discussion about two techniques for roasting marshmallows: burnt to a crisp or gently browned. After dark, folks went to their tents or vehicles and fell asleep to the sound of the bubbling brook that ran alongside the campsites. Saturday morning we set out in three different groups to hikes at points on the Appalachian Trail: Albert Mountain Firetower via Bear Pen Trail, Standing Indian via Kimsey Creek trail and Siler Bald. We made memories, friendships and discoveries--including vast fields of blooming lady slippers!

Heavy rain hit just as the hikes were ending---hikers had their rain gear, ran to tents and some even took quick showers at the camp bathrooms. After cleaning up a bit we carpooled and took refuge from the rain at a brewery in nearby Franklin, NC, where we chowed down on nachos, burgers and fries. By late afternoon the rain let up enough that we ordered a delivery of wood and had a blazing campfire.

Sunday morning, we woke to sunshine and broke camp. Before leaving, some of us took a short 1.5 mile hike to Pickens Nose— a rocky outcrop that looks like the nose of a General Andrew Pickens from 1700’s. On the way home some carpools hit Mexican restaurants—always a great way to end a trip. If you missed this campout, be sure to look for our Fall Camp Out in the Smokies Oct 16-18. Details are posted on the GNHA Meetup page.