Looking for an excuse to trek the most scenic and spectacular stretch of the Bartram Trail? Push your limits on the Trailblaze Challenge, a 24.1 mile hike in one day on the Bartram Trail from Nantahala Gorge to Franklin, N.C.. The second annual endurance hike begins around sunrise at Appletree Campground near the upper Nantahala River. After a few rolling miles, the Bartram Trail joins the Appalachian Trail and climbs steeply toward 5,285-foot Wayah Bald. Atop Wayah, explore a historic stone fire tower and enjoy panoramic views of Western North Carolina, then plunge down a quad-busting descent into Franklin for the festive finish.
Not sure you want to tackle 24 miles in a day? There’s also a 15.6 mile option beginning at Saw Mill Gap.
The hike benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation. For children who face the overwhelming odds of a serious medical condition, the bad times can be truly devastating. Make-A-Wish exists to remind kids of all the amazing possibilities of life and to help them through the most difficult parts of their journey.
The hike will be held on May 17 for Charlotte participants and May 31 for Asheville and Winston-Salem/Greensboro/High Point participants.
Walk in the footsteps of famed naturalist William Bartram and summit one of the most magnificent mountains in Appalachia—while helping children realize their dreams.
Visit trailblazechallenge.org for more information or contact event organizer Chris Webber at [email protected] or 704-339-0334.
