What to Expect:

We will be walking at a moderate pace, not too fast, but not shuffling along either. We should aim to average 2 miles per hour. Once we leave the parking lot, we will immediately start up a gravel road that increases in grade periodically to include some very “punchy” sections where it gets quite steep, then mellows out again. We are climbing up a mountain. So, the first hour of the hike or so is going UP almost the whole time on the Tower Trail. This whole section is mostly Class 2 with some Class 1 flat, gravel road sections. Once we reach an altitude about 500 feet higher than where we started, we reach The Rocktop Trail which traverses across the top of Crowder’s Mountain including some scrambles or light bouldering (Class 3) sections where you must use your hands and a small amount of exposure occurs. The Tower Trail > Rocktop Trail > Crowder’s Trail loop is a non-stop loop that involves some steeps, and a fun traverse through beautiful boulder fields that involves some real scramble bordering Class 2 – Class 3 route. Some teamwork and spotting can come into play, and a route that once you get started, you really need to commit to completing it with the group within an allotted time period, etc. I’m thinking the whole thing, including a full-on hang out picnic and informal meeting (for about 1 hour) at the summit can be accomplished in less than 4 hours.

If everyone’s game and has the time, I think a celebratory milkshake at Tony’s in Gastonia is always a good idea on the way back to Charlotte. Being a connoisseur of fine ice cream and milkshakes – Tony’s is some of the best I’ve ever had…

What to Bring:

This is a fun outing, meant to be an adventure to spark your interest and passion for the outdoors, as well as to serve as an introduction to some of the skills needed to: hike, backpack, camp, boulder, or rock climb safely. Keeping each of us safe and healthy during the day requires each participant to take care of themselves, be honest with themselves about their own abilities, and come prepared to support thier own needs throughout the day. This includes the following: 

• Snacks (Bars, GORP, or other quick protein-rich food) that you can eat on-the-go and easily access during the hike
• A Healthy Lunch! Protein, Fruit, Carbs 
• A Backpack/Daypack that fits all your stuff and extra layers.
• Hydration -A hydration pack is ideal for an outing like this, but at least 2 large water bottles. You should have at least 1 liter or more with you on the hike. A great guide for hydration is: 20 ounces of fluid, 2 hours before working out (before you leave the house), 8 ounces 30 minutes before starting workout (when you arrive to the parking lot), 10 ounces every 20 minutes while exercising (this is where a hydration pack is key – sip as you go without stopping), 8 ounces post workout (when you get back to the parking lot)
• Extra Socks!
• Sunscreen, Lip Balm, 

What to Wear:

While this is not a backcountry hiking trip, we will be away from creature comforts for several hours and the success of the adventure and enjoyment for all participants relies on each of us to be prepared and take the trip seriously. We are hiking up and across the top of a mountain and the terrain is rugged, loose, steep, and somewhat exposed at times. We should protect ourselves with clothing that will keep us comfortable but also perform well under the circumstances.

• Multiple Layers for warmth if necessary. Several thin layers that fit in your pack make it easy to regulate as you warm up and cool down.
• If it’s chilly, start with a thin base layer, then a warm fuzzy layer, then a wind-breaking layer. 
• It’s always a great idea to have a windbreaker/rain shell with you whatever the weather if you’re going to be in the woods for hours at a time.
• Cotton is casual lounge-wear, horrible for hiking and sports. Cotton soaks up moisture, causes overheating and cooling, chafes and blisters skin, and has no virtually no good qualities for anything other than lounging around at home.
• Wool socks will keep your feet warm and dry.
• Proper hiking boots or shoes are great. Virtually any kind of trail shoe works. Stay away from flat-soled skate shoes, Converse, or super-squishy running shoes. You will be walking on rocks quite a bit and you want something substantial under foot.
• Fitted clothing that is not baggy is less likely to rub and chafe your skin. A skin-tight base layer is good protection from that, as-is well-hydrated/moisturized skin, particularly anywhere chafing is likely to occur.

Links

The Loop we will hike! https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/backside-rocktop-and-crowders-trail-loop

Crowder’s Mountain: https://www.ncparks.gov/state-parks/crowders-mountain-state-park

Information on Rock Climbing Routes & Ratings: https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/climbing-bouldering-rating.html

Only serious RSVPs please