January 2015

January outing
T30 January 2015 Outing

Max Patch, NC

A seven-mile backpacking trip

. . . in two seasons!

Nine of T30’s finest, plus a couple of geezers, under took a trek from Brown Gap (elevation 3,500 feet) to Max Patch -- a major landmark along the Tennessee/North Carolina section of the Appalachian Trail. Its summit is located in North Carolina (elevation 4,629 feet) and is known for its 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains.

Finding roads and trail clear and safe after a major snow event several days before provided pleasant going for the trip in and the trail to the summit.

Most on the trekkers had never been to this landmark location and were awed by the 360 views and the weather that allowed it.

Camp was at a crossroads of activity. Thanks to the weather many folks were out.

The evening was filled with cooking, an attempt to get back up the “big hill” to catch the sunset and cards under the stars.

Some new hammockers were excited about getting their new equipment out for the first time.

Late in the evening the weather turned blustery causing the new hammockers to rethink their mode of shelter. They are wiser now.

Morning brought heavy winds and precipitation of the white type that caught some of the crew a bit under prepared. They are now wiser.

Morning activities were sped up and efforts to get on the trail and out of the elements helped the trek move out earlier than typical T30 practice.