Who's up for some hiking? I've heard from several of you who are interested in hiking, so I am coordinating with our own Lori Caterinicchio, a volunteer and experienced hiker to help plan this trip. Let's explore one of Umstead State Park's beautiful trails called the Loblolly Trail on Saturday, April 1.
NOTE: This trail is generally classified as moderately challenging -- it has hills, roots, rock hopping over a small stream (literally), so sturdy footwear and poles are recommended.
We will not be doing the entire trail: for those who want a shorter or slower-paced hike, we can turn around at the rock hopping stream (15 mins/30 total) or go out 30 minutes into the hike and head back. For those wanting to continue on, Lori will lead the rest of the group for a total of 4.2 miles (1.5 hours). Here is a video that shows what some of the trail is like.
We will meet at the trail head located in the back right corner of the large paved parking lot at the end of N. Harrison Avenue -- this is one of the entrances to the park.
Parking gets crowded on weekends so allow some extra time to find a spot. We will meet at trail the head at corner of parking lot at 9:30 a.m. and the hike begins at 9:45 a.m.
We are not providing transportation. Lunch follows at 11:30 a.m. at the Big Easy Oven and Tap located at 231 Grande Heights Drive in Cary (self pay). This event is for YMCA members only.
To find out more, contact Linda Collier or join our Facebook Group.