Overview | Contacts | Photos | Links | News&Info | Schedule
The Chargers & Rechargers Hiking Club is an informal loose-knit group of hiking enthusiasts in the western and northwestern mountains of North Carolina. Most of the membership lives in the area stretching from Burnsville and Spruce Pine up to Boone.
The Club schedules hikes year round in the surrounding areas in locales such as Linville Gorge, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Appalachian Trail, Roan Mountain (Tennessee), and the Virginia Creeper Trail (Virginia). Most hikes are held on Saturday and Wednesday and last four to five hours. Hikes range in difficulty from easy to strenuous.
These hikes are a great way to experience the beautiful natural features of the area and to meet new friends while enjoying the outdoors. We hope you will join us for an outing. Both Club members and nonmembers are welcome on hikes.
You may join the Club by sending a check for $7 PER HOUSEHOLD (the dues primarily pay for publication and mailing of the newsletter; only one copy is sent to each household) made out to "Chargers & Rechargers Hiking Club" to Dolly Rose, 1408 Colonial Ave, Greensboro NC 27408. Include your name and address and optionally your phone number and email address. Membership entitles you to receive our quarterly newsletter with Club news and the upcoming hiking schedule and to be listed in the Club membership roster. You are also entitled to a 10% discount on some items at the Boone Mast General Store and the Boone Footsloggers.
- 828-264-2554 John (Jack) Callahan, Saturday Hike Co-Coordinator & Vice-President - goldjec @ hotmail . com
- 828-264-5884 Dolly Rose, Treasurer, Dues Collector - rosiefromnc @ yahoo . com
1408 Colonial Ave, Greensboro NC 27408- 828-733-4070 Harvey Crouch, Mid-Week Hike Coordinator - corey14440 @ juno . com
- 828-260-6146 Dave Johnson, President - djohnson6146 @ charter . net
- 828-295-8042 Kate Colclaser, Newsletter - kcolclaser @ bellsouth . net
- 828-963-5188 Frank Young - pictureman @ skybest . com
- 828-295-0096 Nancy Benson, Membership Coordinator
- 828-297-4080 Jack James, Membership Records & Web - jj28692 @ yahoo . com
To reach people mentioned here, see Club Contacts above.
Blue Ridge Parkway in Trouble. The New York Times recently carried an editorial about the funding shortages and politicizing of the National Park Service. Between 1980 and 2003 the NPS budget increased 82% but the Parkway budget lagged way behind with only a 25% increase. What this means to the Blue Ridge Parkway is that with less funding one out of three jobs is not being done. There is a campaign being started to make Congress aware of the need for funding for the Parkway. If you would like more information on this subject, want to read/sign the petition or make a contribution you can obtain more information at the Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway website: www.blueridgefriends.org. On this website you will also find a listing of the various projects that are being considered for the Parkway which include everything from flying squirrel habitats to gypsy moth and woolly adelgid control to Cone property development and landslide management.
National Trails Day. The first Saturday in June (the 7th this year) is National Trails Day. The slogan for NTD 2008, Join Us on the Trail, is an open invitation to all Americans to join-up with a local hiking club, outdoor retailer, local park and recreation department, or federal land managing agency to get outside and experience everything the great outdoors has to offer. Of course we have a hike scheduled, so gather a few friends and invite them along to hike.
April is $1 Month at Grandfather! You will notice that we have two hikes scheduled for that area during the month of April. Area residents can obtain a pass for $1 during April—just bring your drivers license. So hike, visit the animals and the museum and enjoy the mountain.
Renewals. Don’t know if it’s time to renew?? Check the mailing label on your newsletter. Above your name you will find the date your renewal is due. If you are due NOW or are PAST DUE, this information will be highlighted. To continue receiving the newsletter, you must send your dues to Dolly - the dues monies are what keep the newsletter coming. ….No $$, no newsletter. And remember, dues are $7 PER HOUSEHOLD.
Emails. We do often need to contact the membership when a change occurs and the easiest way to do that quickly is through email. If your email address is not listed on the membership roster and you would like to be notified of hike changes and updates by email, please send your email address to Jack James.
Photos on the Web. Jack James has set up a photo section which is accessible from this Chargers and Rechargers website. Just go to the top of this page and click on Photos. Dave Johnson is currently managing the site but we're looking for someone to take it over. If you are interested or want to find out more, contact Jack or Dave.
Sunday Hikes. No longer offered.
Monday Lite Hikes, Anyone? We are doing shorter hikes on Monday mornings beginning at 9am to finish by noon. If you want more exercise, but don’t want to spend a major portion of the day, come out and hike on Monday mornings. Each month one of these will be a maintenance hike involving overlook cleanup, trail maintenance, etc. Members who are interested receive an email giving the meeting location. If you aren’t on the email list for these hikes and want to be, contact Dave Johnson and add your name to the list.
Club Patches. Patches are available for $3 each from Nancy Benson (828-295-0096), Dolly Rose (828-264-5884), or Frank Young (828-963-5188).
The detailed schedule is below the Notes.
Our next member/planning meeting is listed at or near the end of the schedule.
NOTES
Special Notice to Prospective Hikers. We have had cases where hikers have arrived at the original meeting locations and missed hikes because of changes in arrangements. If you intend to go on a particular hike, call the hike leader no later than the night before the scheduled day. Be sure to provide your name and phone number. In the event the weather conditions or other circumstances cause the cancellation of a hike or an adjustment in the starting place or time, you can be notified.
"Terrain" Ratings are defined below. Unless indicated the hike is believed to have no water crossings without footbridges. Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain (hiking boots are strongly recommended). Bring enough water and a light lunch or snack for everyone in your party. Estimated hiking time includes all breaks and stops. As a general rule our hikes are not suitable for children (check with leader prior to the hike). Dogs are not permitted on most hikes; please check listings below. A "relaxed hike" has a slow pace and a flexible route and times. BRP = Blue Ridge Parkway.
Terrain Ratings are based on the most difficult part of the trail (unless that segment is very short in which case a special note is added to the listing). Easy: flat or very limited ascents/descents with clear, easy and often wide trails. Easy/Moderate: easy to moderate ascents/descents, trail is usually clear and not too rocky. Moderate: ascents/descents steeper than easy hikes but less severe than strenuous hikes, paths can be difficult in places. Moderate/Strenuous: some sections have strenuous ascents/descents, paths often have difficult footing sections and can include such things as ladders. Strenuous: ascents/descents can be very difficult, path can be overgrown, narrow, rocky or otherwise provide difficult footing.
A Note to Hike Leaders: You are the backbone of the club. Without hike leaders we can’t hike as a club. It’s like a covered dish supper without anybody bringing any food. The process is pretty simple and some of the experienced hikers are available to help. First, select a hike you feel comfortable leading. Then let the hike coordinator know before the next meeting if possible or come to the meeting. During the days before the hike take phone calls from those coming (take their names and phone numbers so you can notify them in case of hike changes) and make arrangements for a meeting place and time. Arrange for spotting cars if necessary. Have everyone sign the release form at the beginning of the hike. As you lead the hike make sure to account for all the hikers. Use another hiker as a rear sweep to make sure that nobody is left behind if you think it’s necessary. Have fun and return the signed release forms to the president.
----- Please, no calls to hike leaders after 9:00pm. -----
***** March *****
Wednesday, March 26 -- Basin Creek Trail Hike to Caudill Cabin. (Alleghany/Ashe Co.). 9.6 miles, all-day hike. Rated moderate to strenuous. Elevation gain of l560 ft. 34 stream crossings, mostly by rock-hopping. Streams are not deep or wide. Chimneys are left standing from cabins washed away in the terrible flood of l9l6. The Caudill cabin, however, is newly restored. Dress for the weather, bring 2 quarts of water, flashlight, hiking sticks for stream hopping, a small towel, and lunch. Meet at Laurel Springs Post Office, junction of routes 88 and 18. No dogs allowed. Leader: Curly Perzel 336-982-8591.
Saturday, March 29 -- Worley Cavern Cave Experience. This is a 3 hour, 3 mile loop through Worley’s cave in Tennessee. You will have to crawl in two places and climb up an 8 foot high rope with a boost. You will need a hard hat and light (extra batteries) and a COMPLETE CHANGE OF CLOTHING AND SHOES. There is a $5.00 entrance fee. No dogs allowed. NOTE: YOU MUST CALL JEAN BY MARCH 1ST TO MAKE A RESERVATION AS A MAXIMUM OF 10 PARTICIPANTS. Leader: Jean Triol, 828-295-4366.
***** APRIL *****
Wednesday, April 2—no leader, no hike.
Saturday, April 5--Pond Mountain to Dennis Cove. Pond Mountain Trail is 9 miles on the AT from Watauga Lake on 321 where the AT crosses at Shook Branch Rd. (just before Hampton, Tenn.) to Dennis Cove parking lot on Dennis Cove Rd. We will be spotting cars. The hike is moderate to strenuous. Bring water and lunch. No dogs please. Leader: Gloria Marquez 828-262-0357.
Wednesday, April 9--Profile Trail to Calloway Peak (Avery Co) Approx 6 miles, estimated 5 hrs. The scenic lower part of the trail is easy, then, there is a steady 2.5 mile uphill climb with rocky terrain near Shanty Springs to Calloway Peak where there are 360 degree vistas at 5,964’ elevation. Total climb of over 2,000 ft. A permit is needed and can be bought at Invershiel Exxon at the corner of NC 105 and 184 next to McDonalds. No dogs allowed. Leader: Curly Perzel, 336-982-8591.
Saturday, April 12-- Watauga Lake at the AT -- approximately 7 to 8 miles around the lake - moderate. Bring water and a snack. No dogs please. Leader: Carol Ann Mitchell 423-772-4280 .
Wednesday, April 16--Ol' Quartz Mine (near Grandfather Profile Trail) -- approximately 4 miles round trip. (Doe River Gorge Spring Wildflower Hike previously scheduled for 4/16 moved to 4/22.) Climb up to quartz out-cropping is fairly cardio/strenuous. Lunch will be with a great view. Then we'll take some time to scavenge for quartz rocks with crystals in them (they're all over). Leader: Harvey Couch 828-733-4070.
Saturday, April 19--Flat Top Tower Trail at Moses Cone Memorial Park (Watauga Co.) 20 minutes from Boone. Hike 5.6 miles with a steady climb for 3 hours on carriage trails through gnarly old oak forest and high pasture. Rated: Easy to moderate. Enjoy excellent vistas of Blowing Rock. Climb quite tall observation tower for views of town of Boone and surrounding area. Meet at Cone Estates parking area BR Pwy MP 294 in front of carriage barn/rest rooms. No dogs. Bring water and a snack. Leader: Bob Heath 803-548-5139, or cell 803-984-7003.
Tuesday, April 22--Doe River Gorge Spring Wildflower Hike (Moved from 4/16) (Carter Co, TN.) This hike follows the Doe River on a section of the old Tweetsie RR which ran from Johnson City to Boone. We will seek out early spring wildflowers as we hike on the old ET& WNC Railroad Grade through the gorge. The group will sign in at the Doe River Christian Camp and will take up an appreciation collection for the camp. Approx. 5 miles, easy to moderate. No dogs permitted on property. Leader: Susan Moore, 828-733-5748.
Wednesday, April 23--Grandfather Trail--5+ miles A round trip from the swinging bridge to Calloway Peak. Weather permitting, we will include Macrae Peak which is very strenuous, at times requiring use of cables and ladders, but with spectacular views. This is an alpine trail that crosses the entire summit ridge of Grandfather Mtn. Proper shoes and dress required. Bring 2 qts. of water, hats and gloves. No dogs. Leader: Allmuth "Curly" Perzel, 336-982-8591.
Saturday, April 26--Rich Mountain Carriage Trail--(Watauga Co) 8.4 mi., 4 hrs. Rated moderate. Excellent views of estate and surrounding countryside, passes Trout Lake, meadows, hardwood forests and provides good views of mountains including Grandfather. No dogs permitted. Bring water and a snack. Leader (a recent change): Jack Callahan 828-264-2554.
Wednesday, April 30--Boone Fork Trail-- (Watauga Co.) 4.9 miles, 4 1/2 hrs. Rated Moderate. Includes two trail ladders. Meet at the Price Park picnic area (BRP milepost 296.5) Trail goes through campgrounds, meadows, and crosses a small creek numerous times. No dogs allowed. Leader: Carol Ann Mitchell, 423-772-4280.
***** May *****
Saturday, May 3--Colberts Ridge near Carolinas Hemlock Campground , (Mitchell Co) Moderate to strenuous. Approx. 5 mi. Long range views to the north including Grandfather. Bring a lunch and water. No dogs allowed. Leader: Jan Goodell 828-733-6817.
Wednesday, May 7--New River Trail State Park, VA--Approx. 6.5 miles of easy hiking on a section of the 55 mile long “rails to trails” New River Trail State Park which incorporates a section of the former Norfolk and Western Railway bed. This is 2 hours from Boone and there is a small parking fee. There are several interesting features on this scenic hike. Our route starts at Byllesby Dam, a 1913 hydroelectric project, and follows the lake/river to Fries Junction. The trail crosses a 1,059 ft. Trestle and continues through the 193 ft. Long Chestnut Tunnel before we retrace our steps. Some hikers may want to camp or stay overnite in area motels, B&B’s or cabins and hike or rent bikes for another day of adventure. Leader: Frank Young, 828-963-5188.
Saturday, May 10--Elk Knob State Park - 2.6 miles with a 1200 foot steep climb and return on an old logging road. A beautiful view at the top. Very Strenuous. Meet at Hardees in New Market Center . No dogs. You will need serious boots for this one and hiking sticks. Leader: Jack Callahan 828-264-2554.
Wednesday, May 14--Yellow Mtn Trail/Over Mtn Victory Trail to Hampton Creek Rd. 1800 ft. climb to reach Southern Highlands Conservancy area on top of Big Yellow… strenuous! Estimated distance is 7-8 mi. with spectacular views at 5500 ft. This is a difficult hike--be sure you are prepared. Limit 16 hikers with member preference. No dogs allowed. Leaders: Yardy Williams or Bill Roach, 828-963-6640.
Saturday, May 17--Hawksbill Mtn (Avery Co) --5 mi. moderate to strenuous hike with spectacular scenery including Linville Gorge and several distant mtns. No dogs allowed. Bring water and lunch. Leader: MaryAnn Norwood 828-264-9946
Wednesday, May 21--Beauty Spot Bald-Unaka Mtn on the AT-- (Tennessee/North Carolina, about 2 hours from Boone. Approx 6.5 mi total round trip from the very appropriately named Beauty Spot to Unaka Mountain and back. Terrain varies from easy to difficult with 1,000 ft. altitude difference between high and low areas. Wildflowers and memorable views of close and distant mtns. No dogs please. Leader: Frank Young, 828-963-5188.
Saturday, May 24--Boone Fork to Price Park --- Moderate - Begin at Boone Fork Overlook parking area on BRP and hike to Price Park picnic area - approx. 5-6 miles. We’ll enjoy the wildflowers in bloom. Bring water and snack, but no dogs. Leader: Dolly Rose 828-264-5884.
Wednesday, May 28--Virginia Creeper Trail Bike Ride--(Washington Co, VA) an all day event. The 17 mile section of the trail from Whitetop Station to Damascus is on the old Norfolk Western Railroad Line that follows Laurel Creek through the Jefferson National Forest. We will rent bikes at JC's in Damascus and shuttle to the top. Lunch at the Creeper Trail Cafe in Taylor Valley, about 11 miles down the trail, or bring your own lunch. Make your reservations early. No dogs. Contact: Susan Moore, 828-733-5748.
Saturday, May 31--Yellow Mountain to Little Hump - Hike north side of Yellow Mtn, with views of forest and water falls. Lunch at Little Hump and hike the ridge back to Mary's house on Yellow Mountain. Approx. 4 miles round trip - moderate to moderately strenuous. Leader: Mary Boys 828-733-9822.
***** JUNE *****
Wednesday, June 4-- Beacon Heights to Rough Ridge--(Watauga Co) 4.5 miles. Rated moderate (rough and rocky in some places). Hike through some of the most spectacular scenery in the eastern US. See great views of the Parkway, Viaduct and Grandfather. Includes boardwalk, wooden stairs in Stack Rock area and a walk under the Viaduct. Bring lunch and snacks. No dogs. Leader: Carol Ann Mitchell, 423-772-4280.
Saturday, June 7--Roaring Creek to Humps to 19E -- Approx. 9+ miles and moderate to strenuous. There are steep climbs and descents with very rocky conditions at the end. Bring water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks and lunch. No dogs. Leader: Carol Ann Mitchell 423-772-4280.
Wednesday, June 11--Grayson Highlands Rhododendron Hike--About 2 hrs from Boone. 4 round trip moderate-difficult miles from Massie Gap among huge boulders at Rhododendron Gap plus 2 mile moderate Cabin Creek Trail loop which includes Cabin Creek Falls. Seeing the rhodos at the boulders and along the route in this setting is one of the truly memorable experiences in the Southern Appalachians. Considerable sections of the route are rocky and include scrambling over boulders-fun, but strenuous. Another great place to consider spending an extra day camping and enjoying the great outdoors. No dogs please. Leader: Frank Young, 828-963-5188.
Saturday, June 14--Quarterly Meeting-- Land Harbor picnic pavilion. Meet at 11:00 a.m. Please bring a covered dish to share. Drinks and setups will be provided. Cindy Kebelbeck 828-295-6385 and Pam Hoffman 828-262-9779 will host.
Wednesday, June 18--Roan Mountain Carvers Gap to Grassy Gap -- 6 miles, 4 hours. Rated: moderate/strenuous. Meet at the Carvers Gap parking area which is on the NC/TN line at the top of NC 261 (143 on the TN side.) Spectacular 360 degree views along part of the AT that crosses the bald. Great valley views from Grassy Ridge. Trail is rocky with 3 steep slopes to climb in each direction . 5,000 ft elevation. No dogs. Leader: Yardy Williams, 828-963-6640.
Saturday, June 21--Watkins Rd to Old Camp Catawba Rd and on to the camp -- Easy to moderate - hike from Bass Lake past the Apple Barn via Black Bottom Road to Watkins Road where we’ll meet Flat Top Road and on to the camp. Lunch there and return to Bass Lake. Approx. 6 miles round trip. Bring water and lunch or snack. Leader: Cindy Kebelbeck 828-295-6385.
Wednesday, June 25-- Raven Rocks to Chestnut Ridge and Old Miller Farmstead-- extreme cardio hike. Bring lunch, salty snacks, poles. We will tour the old farmstead and relax on the porch at the end. No dogs. Leader: Carol Ann Mitchell, 423-772-4280.
Saturday, June 28--Boone Fork Trail -- (Watauga Co.) easy to moderate -- approximately 5 miles of streams, forest, meadows and stream crossings. Bring water and lunch. Leader: Cindy Henson 828-297-3190.