“It's a pretty far distance, unlike some of our other parkway guided hikes, and will take three-four hours,” Sovilla said.
The entire trail is above 5,000 feet elevation and climbs through a world of clouds, conifers and ancient ferns in the Black Mountain range. The hike will be a round trip of 4.6 miles.
Hikers should bring snacks or lunch, plenty of drinking water, wear sturdy shoes, be prepared for cooler, changeable weather and bring rain gear. Sovilla said the group will stop at a rock outcropping called Little Butt for lunch and views.
Hikers should meet at 10 a.m. tomorrow at the Balsam Gap Overlook, Milepost 359.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
For more information please click here, or call Ranger Sovilla 828-350-3822, ext. 209, or 828-298-5330, ext. 304, for details.
Click here for a PDF trail map of the Big Butt Trail.
Jeff
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