Kilted Hike

**HeathBar** · 5th July 06, 07:20 PM

In Tartan Hiker's thread I mentioned getting together for a kilted hike to celebrate his fully recovered knee. I know that this could be some time away, probably next year even. Several of you seemed interested so I decided to start this rather than hijack his thread. I have actually thought about this for sometime, just kept it to myself.

This is what I envision...a day hike, in the fall, in a mountain setting. Something of a medium level intensity. This is something that can be done on a weekend. Basically arrive Friday night, hike Saturday and dinner that night, maybe a short hike (2-3 hours) after breakfast Sunday, then go home. I know it sounds too short, but I think we're more likely to get a better group if we keep it short and sweet.

This is just the beginning of something in its earliest stages so let me hear your ideas. I'll do as much as I can to coordinate, but I am not a trail expert. So I'll need some help in that area.

What's your thoughts?

**Kilted KT** · 5th July 06, 07:23 PM

I say everyone needs to get some bodyglide and a lumbar pack!!!

**KiltedCodeWarrior** · 5th July 06, 07:25 PM

I would be interested, depending on location. For me, the mountains of western NC, northern GA would be great!

**Southern Breeze** · 5th July 06, 07:40 PM

The date and location needs to be worked out but N Ga., Western N.C, East TN would be fine.

**HeathBar** · 5th July 06, 07:49 PM

Originally Posted by Southern Breeze

Western N.C, East TN would be fine.

This is the area I was thinking about. I like the Smokies, I'm somewhat familiar with the area. But it could be a turnoff for some because of the touristy location. The late fall is the time of year I was thinking. Most of the tourists are gone by that time of year, too cold for them. But for the kilted, never too cold.

**Southern Breeze** · 5th July 06, 08:05 PM

I'll start things of by suggesting Mt Leconte. It's a good overnight hike.

http://www.lecontelodge.com/directions.html

**HeathBar** · 5th July 06, 08:18 PM

Originally Posted by Southern Breeze

I'll start things of by suggesting Mt Leconte. It's a good overnight hike.

http://www.lecontelodge.com/directions.html

Now that would be an experience. I read up on this place a few years ago, but had forgotten about it. Now this would be at the top of my list. Thanks SB. Has anyone ever been there before?

**Tartan Hiker** · 5th July 06, 08:10 PM

We have more than enough trails in the Montreat valley for day hikes of from one to 7 hours. Montreat also has a fine old hotel which is located less than one mile from the six main trailheads in the valley.

I sure hope I'll be trailworthy by this fall. My surgeon gave me assurances that I will be, but there's a lot of cutting, grafting, and rehab between now and then.

My favorite hike is from Montreat to the summit of Mount Mitchell; 14 miles and 4000' elevation gain. That's my ultimate "Rehab Graduation" goal, but I don't expect to be able to tackle that one until next Spring at the earliest.

I'm really excited to find so many folks interested in a hike event. I've been hard pressed to find a "silver lining" to this wretched injury, but maybe this is it. Once again, I thank all of you for your messages of support and encouragement.

Bill