More recent trip reports, photos and information on fun and fellowship are found at our Meetup pages! Please come to the new site for The Carolina Berg Wanderers' Meetup Group and come play outside with us!
PILOT MOUNTAIN DISCOVERED
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Participants: “The Ladies” - Donna Roth, Linda Fox, Mina Lavendol and Bob Miles
This secret jewel is right here in our back yard, an hour-and-a-half away.
Pilot
Mountain is only 2,420 feet high, but thickly forested with mostly hardwoods, which provide shade for the largest growth of mountain laurel I’ve ever seen. On my birthday, they were at their peak bloom. If you have never looked very, very closely at a mountain laurel bloom, you need to do so. How long and how many ways can Bob look at a mountain laurel? From “The Ladies”, a lot and a heck of a lot more.
Stuart and Dori would like to pass the following tasks on to new owners. If you can help, please contact them per below.
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Ø
Contact us @ bergweb@gmail.com
A RIDE OF ATTRITION
Participants: Don Clapp, Pam Ellwood, Van and Tammy Phifer, Mike Davis, Renee Mercer, Kim Craig, Stuart Jones
For the University Area Spring Colors Bike Ride on Sunday April 22, we had eight riders. Well, at least for a while. As usual, we met at 9:00, and headed out for a three-hour tour (a three-hour tour…). We had seven bikes (one was a tandem – a bicycle built for two: insert song here). As we progressed, the faster ones (Tandem, plus bikers A, D, and E) went too fast and the slower ones (B, C, and F) went too slow (and stopped to chat with Steve and Marsey and their bruncheon crowd), and we became a bit too spread out. Then Tandem had a blowout (not pointing fingers here, but it was on the back tire), and Steve had to run Rescue Shuttle. Down to 6. Then A decided to bail and join the bruncheon. Down to 5. Some miles later, D and E forged ahead, became separated, and could not be found. Down to 3. B and C short-cut back to the cars, while F continued the loop which D and E should have taken. Down to 1. F finished the route and returned to the cars. No D and E. F drove the roads to each access point of the greenway. No D and E. F returned to the cars. No D and E. F began the road loop again. D and E! Found alive! They had finished the loop (and half a dozen extra “exploration” miles, as well, after missing a turn early on). Back to 5! E had had enough by this time, and departed for home, and B, C, D, and F – reunited at last – headed for Red Robin.
SPRING CAMPOUT FRANCIS MARION NATIONAL FOREST
Thursday-Sunday, April 26-29, 2007
Participants: Van & Tammy Phifer, Stuart Jones, Mike Davis, Ronda Johnson, Linda Fox, Les & Catherine Love, Carolyn Matlack, Stephanie Lavery, Chris Robert and Daniel Binford - plus two dogs and a cat!
This Bergish dozen came from all over, loaded like it was the Exodus! The typical vehicle had watercraft on top, bikes on the back, more toys inside.....and people - ready for a weekend away from the city. In three campsites right alongside the intracoastal waterway, we found what we sought - and had a great time! About half drove down on Thursday, to the Buck Hall Recreation Area in the Francis Marion National Forest a mere 20 miles north of Charleston - the others arrived after work on Friday. Most visited Bull's Island to count alligators - some by kayak against a stiff wind, some by motorboat and some by ferry. Note to the future - biking is not so good on Bull's Island, due to the soft sand; kudos to those who labored valiantly!
Dolphins graced our campsite morning and evening; the half moon cast a gentle night light for the wanderer amongst us. Saturday's campfire provided for fellowship and stories; in the end we had more wood that we could burn! A steady breeze meant that we had no problems with the bugs that we'd been warned about - and that made the trip altogether a pleasant escape!
Oh - and we ate!
We are Bergs, aren't we? Never mind the bathroom, but go for breakfast at the McLellanville Diner and try Thursday (it's Cantina Night) at A W Griffith & Co, both in the big, little town of McLellanville. Stop by and marvel at the 1000-year old tree - it's huge! It goes to show what can happen, if one is lucky enough to have survived hurricanes all those years!
In the end, we all headed back to our places with a fresh spring in our steps. Mission accomplished - a great time had, enriched by fellowship, well fed, exercised, suntanned - a good weekend. Thanks to Mike and Ronda for much help with the research and communications!
DEVIL’S FORK STATE PARK
by Emilie Booker
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Participants: Emilie Booker, Donna Roth, Yvonne Stiehl, Cynthia Snyder, Ann Batson, Laura Williams, Alan Cruse and Don Clapp
Our first stop was at Twin Falls - a short walk to see an impressive double waterfall! We almost missed the turn-off at Bob's Place and the Road Kill Grill!
Then on to Devil's Fork State Park where we saw the rare and endemic Oconee Bells wildflower in flower and had lunch beside the stream. After completing the nature trail here, we drove to the trailhead for Station Falls. On this 3 mile hike we saw many wildflowers including numerous sessile trilliums, bloodroot, windflower, wild ginger, blue cohosh, several types of violets, Jack-in-the-pulpit, hepatica, wild geranium, and yellow root. And Station Falls was also beautiful.
Even though the temperature was in the upper eighties, everyone had a wonderful time. We capped off the outing with an excellent meal at California Dreamin'.
TED FORD's TABLE ROCK DAY HIKE
by Don Clapp
A total of 12 people including 5 from “down yonder” and 7 of us from the Charlotte area – Ivy and Paul Ng, their daughter and 3 friends, and Don started out from the Palmetto Trail (SC’s equivalent to our Mountains-to-Sea Trail) trailhead on the west side of Table Rock State Park. The weather was beautiful and quite warm for March. We took a side trail which Ted said was a side rabbit trail (they must have awfully big rabbits down there) to Pinnacle Falls. Someone forgot to make sure everyone knew they had gone off the main trail. Well, I really did want to get the extra exercise. Of the 12 that started, 9 of us finished. No – it really was an easy to moderate hike, some of the 3 just weren’t quite ready for the moderate part. The falls were a nice treat and a great place to eat lunch. The SC group returned south and the Charlotte area 7 went in search of waterfalls called Twin Falls which Ted told us about. In order to get to Twin Falls we went up Rt 178 and turned between Biker Bobs (the parking lot was full of chrome, leather, and “biker babes”) and Road Kill Café (yes, I seriously considered trying some of their “delicacies”, but I chickened out because I wasn’t sure how “fresh” their road kill might be.) Wow, talk about a redneck area!!! After experiencing that intersection we proceeded on the waterfalls. They were definitely worth the extra 20 minute drive. We were treated to a series of small falls with some great swimming pools which led up to Twin Falls (they were really 2 ½ falls wide.) The beautiful set of falls were viewed from a platform large enough to accommodate quite a few people for a sleepover. The falls are definitely worth visiting whenever going to Table Rock or Lake Jocassee.
LAURA’S TRAIL By Stuart Jones
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Rick Garcia, Marc Washburn, Mike Davis, David Matthews, Jamie Griffin, Robert Jones, Steve Martin, Emilie Booker, Daniel Binford, John and Cathy Campbell, Stuart Jones
A beautiful morning, a good crowd, and Krispy-Kremes (thanks, Daniel!). We had twelve people show up (eventually) for the 1Q clean-up of Laura’s Trail, including a couple of 1st-timers. With such a nice, large turnout, we were able to split into three groups, rather than the usual two, and were able to include areas around the end of the peninsula that we normally can’t cover. We gathered up a lot of trash, found some cool keeper-stuff (several fishing lures, a baseball, a hemostat (?)), and fine-dined on barbecue afterwards. Thanks to all.
CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK HIKE
by Stuart Jones
Chris Roberts, Carol Garrett, Nancy Rosenberg, Neil Carroll, Carolyn Hoopes, Alice Young, Stuart Jones
Linwood Road access and followed the Backside and Crowders Trails around the base to
Sparrow Springs Rd. Here, Chris picked up the Rocktop Trail for the ascent to the Overlook. Rocktop is steep and scenic (more for way cool rock formations than for vistas). At the top, however, Crowders Overlook afforded us wonderful views of the lands for miles around. Downtown
Charlotte was a little hazy in the distance, and the late afternoon sun made it look like Oz’s
Emerald
City . (No poppies or monkeys….) We short-cut down the steps for home, happy with a good 5-mile workout and with such a cool place so very close to home.
COWPENS NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD HIKE
“A
New Hope for the Revolution”
Sunday, March 3, 2007
(Bergs) Emilie Booker, Donna Roth, Linda Fox, Andrea Elliott, Stuart Jones,
(Former Berg) Marie-Paul Stone
(Non-Bergs) Alan Cruise, Yvonne Stiehl, and Bob and Elaine
Emilie’s 5-mile hike-and-tour at Cowpens was a great outing that everyone should take in at some point. Only ninety minutes from
Charlotte , this Revolutionary War historic site – set in the rolling foothills of the SC Upstate – is as scenic as it is informative. A short film colorfully describes the developing confrontation of that January in 1781, the flow of the battle, and the stunning turn that suddenly ended Tarleton’s British Legion, giving the Americans their first real hope that the Revolution would succeed. A walk through the fields found the markers noting the key points of the battle, from the opening salvo to the final forced surrender of the British Highlanders and the famed Light Dragoons. Within ten months, Cornwallis would yield at Yorktown, and
America would finally be
America .
|
|
WATERFALL HIKE
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Darrel Pennigar, Dori Bowman, Ruth Ann Rapp, Rick Austin, Kim Craig, Don Clapp, and Topsy Wallace
We guesstamate (new word) that we hiked about eight miles total. This was my first hike with the Bergs and I was happy that I could keep up with them. We had eaten such big lunches, we decided not to stop for dinner! |
| Memories from Cass, West Virginia - a Berg hangout |
|
Linville Gorge Day Hike
by Ruthann Rapp
Ruthann Rapp, Barbara Lane, John, Cathy & Ryan Campbell, Rita Heath, Collette Eshelman, Paul Geise, Alice Young, Kim Craig and Nancy Rosenberg.
Eleven lucky souls ventured up to Linville Gorge to hike the Mountains to the Sea Trail up to the eastern rim and then along the rim to the Chimneys. I think all will agree the first hour or so was incredibly strenuous, but it was all worthwhile once we saw the view, which was beyond description! We had lunch at the top of Table Rock Mountain. The weather was gorgeous and amazingly warm for late January, which caused several of us to keep removing layers of winter clothing as the day progressed. The trip ended in the normal Berg manner with a good meal in Morganton. |
Dayhike at Hanging Rock State Park, January 1, 2007 |
|
Saturday-Sunday, December 9-10, 2006
Barbara Lane is quite a firebuilder! Everyone pitched in to gather wood and help with the fire. We had dinner, ending with pie from Fresh Market that Barbara brought, fudge compliments of Daniel, and good conversation around the campfire. The fire finally died down and we all snuggled down in our bags for the night. Some of us woke up and put more clothes on as the temperature dropped to about 18. The next morning Ryan got up and got the fire restarted, assisted by Daniel. The warm fire sure made it easier for the rest of us to get up! However, as the sun came up, it warmed up quickly. We packed up and went for a hike, hiking to a few waterfalls. After the hike Daniel and Mary headed to Elkin for a nice meal. The Campbell family and Aunt Barbara headed to Sparta where they ate and bought an inexpensive, fresh cut Christmas tree (which has not lost any needles to date), making the weekend a great success. |
|
FALL COLORS BIKE RIDE
by Stuart Jones
Sunday, November 5, 2006
Danell Russell, Stuart Jones
|
BERG 30TH ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND
by Stuart Jones
Friday-Sunday, October 20-22, 2006
Darrel Pennigar, Dori Bowman, Daniel and Angie Binford, Erin Binford, Mike Davis, Ronda Johnson, Jeff and Roxanne Slye and Spencer, Cathy Bishop, Don Clapp, Chris Patterson and Bob , Ruthann Rapp, Michael Shorkey, Helene Turpyn and Maya and Oscar, Rick Austin and Sara, Rick Stowe, Andrea Novicki, Kim Craig, Donna Roth, John and Cathy Campbell, David and Monica Leonard, Van and Tammy Phifer, Mary Carr, Cliff and Marilyn Greene, Andrea Elliott, Stuart Jones, Titan, and Rosco. Special guest appearance by Jerry and Julie Griffin.
|
FALL WEEKEND IN CASS, WV
by Dori Bowman
Thursday-Sunday, September 28-October 1, 2006
Eighteen Bergs and friends had a great long weekend in Cass, West Virginia. We had two delicious potlucks, and we biked and hiked along the Greenbriar River and in the Monongahela National Forest. Some of us went on a steam train ride and learned about the history of Cass, which was a lumber mill village at one time. Others went to the Radio Observatory and learned how sound waves from space are helping scientists learn about stars and planets. Everyone seemed to have a good time, so join us there in February for more fun, fellowship, hiking, biking and hopefully skiing (cross country and downhill) and again next September! |
LAKE NORMAN STATE PARK / ITUSI TRAIL MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE
by Ronda Johnson
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Participants: Renee Mercer, Jamie Griffin, David Matthews, Mike Davis and Ronda Johnson
It was a perfect day for mountain biking - coolish temps, bright sunshine, excellent trail conditions and eager riders. We met at the trailhead at 10:00 and were soon riding with the wind in our faces and a trail of dust behind us. We pedaled amongst beautiful mature hardwood trees and caught glimpses of the lake. The Itusi Trail is gorgeous. It is well maintained and is great for all skill levels. You can go as fast or as slow as you want, and you have the option of riding the entire length or a couple of shorter loops. One time around just wasn’t quite enough for us, so after a snack & water break, we all hopped back on our bikes and rode the trails again. After the second time around, we were ready to head to lunch.
We had all planned to meet at the Talley House Restaurant in Troutman. Jamie and David headed there to get a table while Renee and Mike and I finished loading our bikes and changing clothes. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to us, the restaurant closed at 2:00 and the three of us got there at 2:08 and were greeted with, “Sorry, we’re closed”. Arggghh! Jamie and David had gotten in just before they started putting the buffet away. We really had our taste buds set for some good home style cooking. Mike remembered eating at a family style restaurant in Mooresville called Fat Boys a couple of years ago, but he didn’t know if they were still in business. Renee decided to head for home, and Mike and I went in search of Fat Boys. They’re still there, and have a huge fresh daily buffet, which includes some of the most delicious homemade banana pudding I think I have ever tasted. It was a great day of riding and dining! |
|
LAURA’S TRAIL CLEAN-UP 3RD Quarter
by Stuart Jones
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Participants: Bob Miles, Donna Roth, Emily Booker, Danell Russell, Pauline Niilend and David, Kim Craig, Stuart Jones
(Laura’s Trail is named and maintained in memory of Berg Laura Anderson, 1949-1995.)
On a gorgeous morning, eight walkers (some occasionally sidetracked by several runners) gathered trash and recyclables along Laura’s Trail and several shorelines. Trails were largely clear, with just a few hotspots of stupidity…uh, careless litter. We barbecued (and burgered) at Bubba’s, then had the afternoon free to play. Or work. But mostly play. Thanks, folks, for helping out. Next clean-up is on Sunday Dec 3rd (following the Christmas Party). |
|
FLATWATER PADDLE ON THE FRENCH BROAD
by Don Clapp
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Participants: Cathy (our Asheville connection and trip guide), Ruthann, Carol, Danell, Liz, Chari, Stuart, Bob, and Don
We had a pleasant and uneventful 8-mile trip down the beautiful French Broad River. We had that section of the river to ourselves, except for a couple of fishermen. At one point, we even had an audience on the riverbank above us and they cheered us on with moo, moo. I wanted to take a milk break, but nobody else was interested. I said the trip was uneventful, which it was, but preparing for the shuttle, and the put in, were a little more interesting. For those interested, we did the Horseshoe to Westfield Park section (pages 24 & 25 of the 2004 edition of "Paddling Asheville" book). This sections take out is adjacent to the Asheville Airport, and Western NC Agricultural Center in Arden.
We tell interested participants "if you don't have the toy you need for an activity, we can probably find one for you." This trip was a good example since two participants were using borrowed kayaks. Since we were so close we just had to go by Diamond Brand to look at all the toys.
Of course it wouldn't have been a Berg activity without some good food, which we got from the restaurant beside the toy store. |
FLEETWOOD-TO-TODD BIKE RIDE
by Stuart Jones
Saturday, August 13, 2006
Participants: Van and Tammy Phifer (our leaders), Helen Halliday, Danell Russell, Kim Craig, Dori Bowman, Darrel Pennigar, Catherine Cook, Laura Williams, Stuart Jones
A jewel of a day, a gem of a ride, and a brick of a dinner choice. Van’s leisurely ride followed the river 5 miles or so from Fleetwood into Todd. The direction was technically uphill, but without seeing the flow of the river, it would have been a tough call. Flat paved roads winding through woods, homes, and fields, always in sight of the sparkling water of the river. The sun shone, the breeze breezed, and the butterflies butterflew. In Todd, we briefly explored the bakery/antique/craft store (coolly dubbed the “Todd Mahal”) before pedaling back to Fleetwood.
Stage Two was to be lunch at famous Shatley Springs, but upon arrival (2:30-ish), we were informed of a 1.5-hour wait, plus a pay-$15-each-ahead-of-time-just-to-get-on-the-waiting-list policy. (Whose silly idea was this, anyway, JONES?) We thusly decided en mass to explore the Italian Restaurant in town, instead.
Further explorations (and rumors of perhaps a little ice-cream) on the way home made for an easy, excellent Berg day out.
|
| MOVIE NIGHT by Stuart Jones
Participants: David Matthews, Mike Davis, Stuart Jones, with a cameo appearance by Kim Craig
Monday, July 24, 2006
After much discussion and negotiation, we saw "Superman Returns", and were generally not disappointed. |
| JONES GAP FALLS DAY HIKE by Stuart Jones
Saturday, July 22, 2006
An entire chapter in the Murphy's Law handbook. Nine of us set out from Charlotte to join Leader Ted Ford at Aunt Sue's. An I-85 shut-down and detour (and - for some of us - a railroad blockade) delayed the Charlotte crowd's arrivals by up to an hour and 20 minutes. Ted and Mina waited an extra half-hour, but were still long-since gone by the time we began arriving. Mike and Ronda structured their own hike and salvaged a full day, anyway. The remaining 7 lost souls - now lacking a leader - headed for the Ranger Station for guidance and maps. Closed. We looked for trail maps. None. We examined the posted Park Map for Jones Gap Falls. Nothing. We asked a guest camper. "Oh, we read last night on the internet that that trail is closed due to a landslide." You've gotta be kidding me....
Then our luck momentarily took a turn for the better - Ted and Mina appeared at the trail head, finishing their hike. They said, Yes, this is the correct trail, but No, it's not open. Worse, the slide had not only closed the trail to the Falls, it had actually erased the Falls. Gone. Jones Gap Falls is no more. Just a slough of rock and mud and downed trees. (Shake head slowly in disbelief....)
In the end, we did hike a mile or two up the trail to the blocked-off bridge, ate lunch, then explored the tough Ishi Trail for another mile or so before returning to our cars, weary from the impossibility of the circumstances but glad for the time that we did get in a beautiful part of the mountains.
---
Editor's Note: Jon Brady shared the following comments, after reading the above. Thanks Jon!
I visited Jones Gap Falls this past weekend (8/26/06) and am happy to report that there was absolutely no damage to the falls in the landslide. To reach the falls, you must pass the slide area and continue on a bit past campsite 11, which is on the right. The trail crosses the creek on stepping stones, at which point you need to look for a small sign pointing you up and to the right. The falls are less tan a hundred yards up the side trail.
The falls are small, but are certainly worth the short hike out. It's one of the most serene and calming falls I've been to in South Carolina. I have visited a total of about 25-30 of SC's Upstate waterfalls and would definitely recommend Jones Gap Falls as a day trip.
Also consider Falls Creek Falls which is a more strenuous hike, but a beautiful waterfall located only three miles from the Park, but make sure to hike from the road on the east side and not from Jones Gap Park…unless you want to make an extremely difficult hike in and out by the Hospital Rock Trail.
|
BERG WANDERERS INAUGURAL SUMMER CAMPOUT
by John Campbell
Participants: Cathy, John, Ryan, Ruthann, Barbara, Darrel, Dori, Tom, Mina, Andrea, Doug, Alice, Chris and Stuart
Dates: Friday-Sunday, July 14-16, 2006
Location: Beartree National Recreation Area in Washington Co. VA in the Mt. Rogers National Recreation Area
It started out well enough on paper. What we had reserved on the campgrounds website promised us a group site suitable for both RV’s and tents. Once we arrived we found that not to be true. Oh well, with the help of a nice ranger we found enough sites to camp on. It had been raining on and off (shades of the Spring Campout) but most were able to set up in between showers. After a brief planning session for the next day, everyone turned in.
Saturday morning we awoke and readied ourselves for the day’s outings. Most of us headed into Damascus for the shuttle up to Whitetop Mountain for the trip down the Virginia Creeper Bike Trail. Ruthann, Barbara and Chris stayed behind to hike part of the AT from the Campground towards Damascus.
We met Stuart and Alice at the bike outfitters in Damascus, loaded up the shuttle bus and headed up the mountain. We met Darrel, Dori and Mina already at the top of Whitetop and readied ourselves for the “strenuous” ride (coast actually) down towards Damascus. Check out Alice’s bike… very retro… way cool. The skies were clear and cool enough to make the ride comfortable. Approaching lunch some of us stopped in Taylor’s Valley for cold drinks and hotdogs. The others slipped by us somehow. After a leisurely ride (well, coast) we arrive on the outskirts of Damascus at the agreed upon meeting place… where else… an ice cream store. We wake up Tom who was snoozing on the porch and we enjoy our treats.
Many of the riders decided to stop the ride in Damascus. Cathy, John and Ryan decide to push on towards Abbington. Alice and Stuart graciously agreed to shuttle our van to a parking area at Watagua. With the downhill portion of the ride over we set out towards Watagua. It is very scenic passing through Damascus, orchards and fields, by cows, horses, folk’s backyards and best of all over wonderful old trestles. What is that we hear off in the distance… thunder? We decide to push on and try to beat the storm, how bad could it be? Another mile or so down the trail we found out! What a rainstorm!! With no shelter nearby and since we were already getting pretty wet, we rode on. After all how much more wet could you get after you are soaked to the skin? Those trestles are really slick when wet! Finally our van comes into sight… we load up our wet selves and head back to the campground for a nice hot shower.
With everyone back at the campground and dry. we began preparing for the obligatory Berg Saturday night Pot Luck Feast! As usual it was wonderful with plenty of food. The Pot Luck Feast was followed by stories regaling us of past glories. Plans were made for Sunday and everyone drifted off to their tents, cars or VW Westphalia Vans for a good night sleep. |
|
BIKING, WINE & CHOCOLATE TASTING
Saturday, June 24, 2006
By Ronda Johnson Bob Miles (leader), Jamie Griffin, David Matthews, Tammy & Van Phifer, Mike Davis, Ronda Johnson
Per Jamie, “Bob really delivered on this trip....wine, chocolate, the old mill stream, and a mostly downhill ride!”
Seven Bergs rendezvoused in Huntersville early Saturday morning and then caravanned to Elkin/Jonesville for breakfast at the Cracker Barrel. From there we proceeded to Bob’s secret outing location, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia, perfect for cycling, sampling chocolate and sipping wine!
Our starting point was the Rocky Knob Visitor Center. After a quick car shuttle to Mabry Mill, we all hopped on our bikes in anticipation of a fabulous day on the Parkway. All was well until about a half hour into the ride when the skies turned black, a breeze kicked up, and the bottom fell out for about 15-minutes. I mean, FELL OUT! No mishaps were encountered though other than thoughts of hydroplaning and almost being run over by a Corvette Club as they hastily stopped to put up their convertible tops. Being Bergs, we endured, and continued on our way to the next rendezvous point, Mabry Mill. The rest of the day remained rain free with pleasant temps and partly cloudy skies.
At Mabry Mill we all decided to continue pedaling, so proceeded to the chocolate factory that was approximately 2-miles further down the road. Tammy, Van, Mike and I were a little ahead of the others and at 4.5 miles down the road and still no chocolate factory sighting, we came to the Mayberry Trading Post, a delightful old country store. We toured the store and enjoyed homemade fried apple pies and fudge, and wondered where Bob, Jamie and David were. After a while, and still no site of the others, we figured they’d changed their minds. Mike and I decided to ride a while longer and Tammy and Van decided to ride back and tour Mabry Mill.
About an hour later, we all met back at Mabry Mill, and come to find out the chocolate factory really was just 2-miles down the road in Meadows-of-Dan. We had breezed right by the turn-off to it. By then, we had all gotten our fill of pedaling, so we loaded up the bikes. Jamie, David and Bob headed to Chateau Morrisette, and Tammy, Van, Mike and I headed to Nancy's Homemade Fudge factory. They have an awesome variety of fudge and chocolate candy. We then all met up at Chateau Morrisette just in time to participate in the 5:00 wine tasting and to sample some of their award winning sauces, salsas and wine crackers. Afterwards, we all had smiles on our faces as we caravanned back to Elkin for a leisurely dinner on the patio at Mazzini’s Italian Restaurant. It was another great day of Berg fun and fellowship.
www.nancysfudge.comwww.chateaumorrisette.comwww.mtnlaurel.com/mayberry/default.htm |
|
ROAN MOUNTAIN Rhododendron Hike
Sunday June 18
Donna Roth (leader), Chari Crow, Carol Garrett, Stuart Jones, and visitors Cathy and Kathy
Donna herded us out early on Sunday morning for the 3-hour drive to Roan Mountain, which sits squarely on the TN/NC border. It’s peak season for the rhododendron blooms, and they lie scattered - in purple splendor - in spots and thickets across the open balds of these mountains. The clusters of rich lavender on the (literally) waving fields of fresh green were highlighted by the occasional burnt-orange burst of a flame azalea, and they shone as new treasures for us beyond each turn and hillock. The breeze kept us comfortable, as well as adding to the dance of the grasses and blooms, and the patchy clouds had sunbeams wandering over the hillsides, spotlighting vista after vista. Six-or-seven miles, Kodak moments aplenty, then fine Café dining, then safely home. Kudos again to Donna.
|
|
Laura’s Trail
Sunday June 11
Jamie Griffin, Bob Miles David Matthews, Pauline Niilend, Stuart Jones
Four of the survivors from Bob’s Moonlight Paddle wearily trudged in to Latta Nature Preserve to join the bouncy Pauline (fresh from a two-mile run) for our 2nd quarter clean-up of Laura’s Trail. We covered the trails from the Canoe training area around to Buzzard Rock, where we lingered for the freshing breeze and David’s cherries. We were pleased to find the trails mostly clear of trash, with only a few hotspots of beer bottles along the shoreline. Afterwards, we repaired to Bubba’s for tea, Q, and pups.
|
|
Bob’s Moonlight Madness Death Paddle
Saturday June 10
Bob Miles, Tracy Johnson, Daniel Binford, Al Howell, Carol Garrett, Stuart Jones, Cathy Bishop, David Matthews, John Matthews, Jamie Griffin, Chari Crow, Van and Tammy Phifer, John and Cathy Campbell “Put in at Mountain Island Lake’s Neck Roadat dark, on calm water, under a full moon. Take out at the Hwy 16 bridge, on calm water, under a full moon.” That was Bob’s simple plan, and - technically - it did work out just that way. In the actual process, however…. Just after “lunch”, as our covey of 12 boats and 15 paddlers launched from Latta for the 2nd half of our trip, an intense storm cell decided to show up and camp over our little group. The rain came light, then heavy, and the lightning strikes were stalking us, eventually driving us to shore and semi-shelter under a covered boat dock. In the darkness, wind, driving rain, and pounding waves, and with the lightning tap-dancing on our heads, we realized that we were short a Berg and a boat - Chari’s kayak wasn’t with us.
When the storm eased enough to paddle, Bob and Cathy set out upstream and downstream, respectively, to search for her. Cathy found her near a dock a hundred yards downstream, unhurt but in a “situation”. Waves had swamped her kayak, but she had reached the swim ladder of a moored power boat. She managed to maintain contact with her foundering craft with one hand, clinging to the ladder with the other, while getting pounded by the storm and waves. Once help finally arrived, the Bob/Cathy/Van Salvage Crew recovered her kayak, got it emptied out, and got her back into it. Completely undaunted by her experience, Chari resumed the trip downriver with the rest of us.
After nearly an hour, the storm had finally blown itself out to the east, so our last two miles were pleasantly calm, and the moon and stars returned to see us off at the take-out. The boats were loaded, the shuttle was run, and the full moon was coolly viewed through a telescope; another great Berg adventure (a bit more adventurous than most) under our belts… |
|
After-Work Bike Ride
Thursday June 8
Renee Mercer (leader of the Pack), Dori Bowman, Darrel Pennigar, Ralph Hanson, Bob Miles, Monica Swanson, Stuart Jones
Renee once again hosted “The easiest nine miles in biking” tour on the McMullen Creek Greenway. It was a comfortable evening, a scenic ride, and a tasty Thai dinner. All-in-all (if you disregard the mind-numbing cross-town traffic gauntlet), it was a thoroughly pleasant outing.
|
|
Beginning Backpacking Trip to South Mountain, June 2-4, 2006
Leader – Daniel Binford; Participants – Debbie Hartman, Chris Roberts, Barbara Lane, Ulrike Maier, Ruthann Rapp, Elizabeth Minewiser, Erin Binford, Rick & Zoe Austin
Ten brave/foolhardy souls gathered at the base of the mountain, prepared for a first-ever hike with backpacks. Hours later, the arrival in camp was celebrated with tired feet and a strong sense of having accomplished their goal – they had become backpackers! What a feeling, to know that you can carry what you need and simply walk away from civilization….and get back afterwards!
The trip concept was that of a class, so essentially we worked hard to keep close to the shore while we learned to paddle the boat. That part worked, and worked well – no one dealt with fears of failure since the parking lot was never very far away. Yet they all did a backpacking trip of 10+ miles and carried everything they needed for a weekend outing – and that speaks volumes to those who before-hand wondered if they would be up to it!
South Mountain has hills to challenge all comers, and we saw all of them. My guess? You’ll see this crowd out upon the trail, catching a glimpse of them as they disappear from the civilized world and take the trail out to a quiet spot somewhere…. |
Lewis Creek Falls
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Another Ted Ford event... |
Spider Lily Paddle
Landsford Canal, SC
Renee Mercer (Leader / Idea Woman), Stuart Jones (rudder / scribe), Jeff and Valerie Lowe (Bergs / Foundation Volunteers), Caroline Day (Berg Reserve)
The Rocky Shoals Spider Lily is so rare and so unique that it grows in only three states – SC, GA, and AL – and nowhere else in the world. The largest of these “colonies” thrives in the Landsford Canal area of the Catawba River just south of Rock Hill. For three weeks each May, these lilies bloom, opening one giant blossom at a time. The delicate white (always white) blossom opens dramatically at sunset, pulsing fully open - almost visibly - in an hour’s time. At sundown, 24 short hours later, the brief-but-brilliant bloom withers, dies, and is replaced by another.
On Saturday May 20, Catawba Riverkeeper Donna Lisenby led 50 or so supporters on a guided paddle along the swift, shallow Catawba to the lily shoals. We lunched among these spectacular plants as we learned their story, fascinating even to a botany-is-boring zoologist such as moi.
We were joined by Dori Bowman’s land rovers, another 11 Bergs hiking along the historic canal for a shoreline view of the shoals.
The efforts of Donna and the volunteer guides raised hundreds of dollars for the Riverkeeper foundation, which protects the health and preservation of the Catawba. Kudos to all who made the day possible.
|
|
Tuckasegee Gorge Beginners’ Whitewater Paddle Saturday May 6, 2006 Leader: Nelson Highley solo open canoe Participants: Stuart Jones solo open canoe; Elizabeth Minewiser 2 person ducky (with Jen); Jen Thomas (guest) 2 person ducky (with Elizabeth) Dillsboro to Barker's Creek Road Class 2 Gauge: 3.6’ at Barker's Creek gauge:
http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?format=gif&period=20&site_no=03510577
The section is only about a 20 minute drive from the Smoky Mountain Meadows Campground. PUT-IN Dillsboro; TAKE-OUT Barker’s Creek Rd
Most non-paddlers know little about the Tuckasegee River. Everyone drives by it on the way to the Smokies and the Nantahala River but that's about the extent of their contact. Yet it is a delightful class 2 run; pretty and interesting – a whitewater gem for paddlers looking for something less exciting (and warmer) than the Nantahala.
First Hole is considered one of the most difficult rapids on the run but everyone got past the hole with room to spare. Nobody even came close to swimming at any of the other rapids either and all professed to having a great time. For me, seeing the other three people do well and enjoy themselves was an additional high point. The weather co-operated by being almost ideal with temperatures in the mid-70's - not too hot on a river where the sun can beat down.
|
 | | Although the river parallels the highway for most of its length, the road is rarely visible from it. |
|
|
|
Bob's Way Yonder Edisto River Paddle
April 23
Bob Miles, Linda Fox, Dori Bowman, Darrel Pennigar, John and Cathy Campbell, Rick Stowe, Andrea Novicki, Van and Tammy Phifer, Carol Garrett, Ronda Johnson, Mike Davis, Marc Washburn, Stuart Jones
The water just wouldn't cooperate - too much was falling from the sky, too little was flowing in the river - but Bob persevered. He was pushed back a day and downriver a bit (say, a hundred miles or so), but he finally herded 15 Bergs onto / into the Edisto River, somewhere way down I-95, reportedly near the Georgia state line. This was yeoman's work, handling the logistics of such a group on such a trip, but Bob did it and did it well. His mission being accomplished, he saw fit to rest, letting Linda paddle his canoe and his self down the river. His was one of two canoes, surrounded by a cadre of other, lesser watercraft (called "kayaks")....
It was a very nice stretch of river, with good water, decent current, good scenery, and (finally) perfect weather. (Kudos to Ronda and Mike for the Strawberry Shortcake Riverside Festival, and to Mike and Marc for the handy pre-set shuttle.) It was a wonderful 8.5-mile paddle that made the 450-mile drive very nearly worthwhile. |
|
|
Spring Campout
Smoky Mountain Meadows CG
May 5-6-7 |
|
Eighteen Bergs, four visitors, three dogs, and a cat braved the 400-mile round-trip and the rainy forecast to go play in the mountains. We filtered in Friday afternoon and evening to join Mike and Ronda, who apparently don't have jobs and had already been kayaking for two days. The rain gave way to tent pitching and campfire stories, which gave way to wonderful stream-serenaded sleep.
Saturday was white-water canoeing on the Tuckaseegee River for Nelson's crew of Elizabeth, Jen, and Stuart, long-hiking for Ronda, Mike, Gail, and Sharon, and variously moderate hikes for the rest (Darrel, Dori, Van, Tammy, Rick, Andrea, Mosey, Steve, John, Cathy, Carolyn, Arlone, Daniel, Kyle, and the dogs: Spirit, Pilgrim, and Pua; Casper was a camp-cat). The weather was clear and warm, the rhododendron were in bloom, and the greens were at their greenest everywhere you looked. Ideal conditions prevailed throughout the afternoon, the evening, and an exceptional pot-luck supper (topped, in the finest fashion, by brownies, ice cream, and blueberry cobbler - my kind of roughing it....). A four-star campfire followed, including the requisite stories, tales, and chocolate. Later, with the closing of the last tent-zip, the rain returned.
Sunday appeared to be a cut-and-run morning, with the plans for mountain biking at Tsali being washed out . Six headed to the NOC for breakfast, while others sipped coffee and tea under the canopies (or - gamely - by the fire), then loaded up the wet gear and wet dogs and headed homeward. After breakfasting with Jen and Steve in Bryson City, Rick, Andrea, Mom Mosey, and I trusted a break in the rain for a short hike along the Lake Loop Trail off of the Road To Nowhere. The weather held beautifully, the trail lead through that way-cool 300-yard tunnel at the trailhead, and surprising Flame Azaleas popped up in several spots along the loop.
It wasn't a dry weekend, but there was plenty of good weather - if you timed it right. We had a great crowd, a great Saturday, great meal, great fire, great trip. Thanks go to Mike and the other organizers. And to the brownie makers.... |
|
University Research Park Bike Ride
April 30
Bob Miles, Renee Mercer, Donna Roth, Kim Craig, Stuart Jones
A small but dogged crew of Berg bikers showed for the Spring '06 University Area Bike Ride. We added a new leg (5 or so flat miles RT from the URP under I-85 and Hwy 29, out to the soccer fields), for a total of almost 22 miles. We rode the entire lengths of the Mallard Creek and Clark Creek Greenways, plus the hills and dales of the Research Park itself and looped up into the surrounding neighborhoods. The uphills were less work for some (Renee, Kim) than others (rest of us), and the downhills were long and were fun for all.
|
|
Backpacking for Beginners, South Mountains State Park
March 25-26, by Susan McElveen
Ruthann Rapp, Barbara Lane, Richie Calloway(Non Berg), Steve and Marsey Ketner
We had 6 Bergs for this beautiful trip. We met at 10 a.m. in the parking lot, checked out the packs, then loaded up and took off. The weather was on the cold side but with lots of sunshine. The total trip in to Shinny Creek campsite was 1.5 miles with an easy uphill. We set up 5 tents for 6 people. The new backpackers wanted the solo tent camping experience. It looked like a small tent city. There were other campers on this site but they were on the other side, so no problem. We helped the “newbies” set up their tents if they needed help, and showed them how to use the water purifier and fill up a water bag. 5 of us got ready for a day hike. Marsey chose to stay at camp.
We hiked up Shinny Creek, Possum Trail and then on the Horseridge Trail and back - 6.4 miles round trip. We arrived back at camp about 4:30p.m. to a great fire - “Thanks” to Marsey, and true to Steve’s rep as a bringer of wet weather, it started to snow. Well at least it wasn’t rain…… The snow only lasted as long as it took the cloud to pass over. Actually 2 clouds. I would have loved more of it…. Maybe next time. We huddled as close as we could get to the fire, fixed dinners and then for hours told stories. True to the Bergs rep, the stories that traveled around that fire were amazing…and all true!!!!
Loads of laughter and fun. As it was getting late, the temps dropped and we headed for the “hopefully” warm sleeping bags and tents. Late that night we had some noise at the garbage cans. Ritchie said it was the biggest coon he’d ever seen. Unfortunately some of the “other” campers chose this time also to get a little loud and kept us all up half the night. We were all up just before 7a.m. and again huddled around the fire, thanks to Ritchie for getting it started again. All 3 of the new folks were in agreement that they were all cold over night. Even with hand warmers. It was nice that the sun was shinning and warmed everyone up quickly. As everyone was trying to get warm someone mentioned getting packed up and heading for Lincolnton for breakfast/brunch. Needless to say all agreed to the plan. All the new backpackers said they had a “great” time, even if they did get cold, learned a lot and plan on backpacking again in the future, but with warmer sleeping bags…… |
|
Little Pinnacle Mountain Hike
by Stuart Jones
Ted Ford, Pauline Niilend, Rick and Zoe Austin, Mary Carr, Carol Garrett, Stuart Jones
On a chilly-but-clear March 25th Saturday, six Bergs (and Byron and Karen from the SC Ski Club) joined Ted for his "3.5 mile", "moderate" hike up to Little Pinnacle Mountain in Jones Gap State Park, SC. We hiked the #6 Rim-of-the- Gap connector to the #20 Pinnacle Pass trail to the peak, an elevation gain of 1320 feet (ALL of it during the 2nd half of the climb). There weren't many scenic vistas during the ascent, but the trees were large and majestic, and the rock formations were impressive. Many parts of the trail were steep, and a missed turn or two (or three) led some of us to tack on another half-mile or so, but all was rewarded with the views from the pinnacle itself. Our Rookie Hikers, the Austins, had picked a rather formidable hike for their first foray into Berg World, but they acquitted themselves very well (better than some of us, I might add, rather resentfully); at the end of the trip, they were still speaking to us and to each other, so the trip may be deemed a success. |
|
Congaree Hike
by Stuart Jones
Rick Stowe, Andrea Novicki, Andrea Elliott, Marc Washburn, Debbie Hartman, Patrick Hall, Stuart Jones
The newly-designated Congaree National Park (southeast of Columbia SC) is so unique a habitat that it is home to more than 20 “Champion” trees (record size for the species). The trees are massive, and they are many, including water tupelos (19 feet around at chest level, 120 feet tall), American elm (17, 130), Cherrybark Oak (23, 160), and giant Loblolly Pines nearly 170 feet tall.
Rick led us along nearly a mile of the elevated boardwalk , then we assumed ground level along the Weston Lake, Oak Ridge, and River Trails. We covered more than ten miles along creeks and through glades, constantly passing these impressive, imposing trees. We lunched (and napped) on the riverbank, then wound our way home, having missed re-discovering the storied Ivory-Billed Woodpecker (reportedly still lurking in the wilds of the swamp), but having saved a Zebra Swallowtail and having jumped a passel of the wild pigs common to the Park. (I did spot one alligator, but it turned out to be an oak gator....) A beautiful day, and a most primeval and most rewarding experience. |
|
My First Backpacking Adventure – by Ronda Johnson
Trip Report for March 24-26, 2006 Backpack
Cataloochee Area - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
On Friday evening, Mike and I met up with Jamie, David and Marc at the Green River BBQ in Saluda. From there we proceeded to our destination for the night, Cataloochee Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains. The weather forecast was for cold (30’s during the day, 20’s at night) with a high probability for snow. When we arrived at the I-40 / I-26 split, the snow was beginning to fall. As we exited I-40 and got onto the road to the campground, the REAL adventure began. The snow was really coming down. The last 10-mile stretch is a narrow winding mountain road with steep sides. The asphalt turned to dirt, and the climb got steeper and windier as we got closer to the campground. It was wonderful, and a little scary! We reached the campground and had the place to ourselves, except for the resident ranger. Imagine that! We chose our sites and pitched the tents. After a quick trip to the bathrooms, we said our goodnights. All night long a light snow fell, making a slight clicking noise on the tent, with an occasional soft “whoosh” as accumulated snow slid off. It was very peaceful. Zero degree down sleeping bags are wonderful. We stayed cozy and warm all night long.
The next morning we woke up with 2-inches of snow on the ground in a semi-winter wonderland. Snow showers kept starting and stopping (all day). We made and ate our breakfasts on snow covered picnic tables, and then Mike reviewed the map/trails that he had picked out and went over the plan for the day. We took down the tents, and packed our backpacks (Mike showed me how to pack mine). Then off we went to the trailhead (which included a shuttle). The trailhead was 5-6 miles from the campground, and the further up we went, the deeper the snow! Within 1-mile of the trailhead we were in a real winter wonderland with about 8-inches of snow and higher drifts. It was fabulous!
I put my backpack on for the first time. Hmmmmm, a lot heavier than my daypack. Larger and wider too. This would take a little getting used to. Since Mike and I were going to run a shuttle, we stashed our backpacks down the trail so we could pick them up upon returning. Jamie, David and Marc started out ahead of us. We’d meet up with them at the halfway point.
Local humor. As Mike and I were hiking back up the road to the trailhead, a ranger came along in his 4-wheel drive and we were able to catch a ride with him. Mike mentioned that we had run a shuttle because a long time ago he had left his car in a similar remote spot near the park border and come back to find that some locals had stolen his wheels! The straight faced ranger said, “Well, I’m a local, and I’m giving you a ride.” LOL!
Back at the trailhead, we eagerly put on our backpacks, and off we went. Up and over 9 fabulous, gloriously beautiful, snow filled miles of the Smoky’s! The views and snow were awesome! The trails were mostly high-moderate, with one stretch that was actually strenuous that went down about ½-mile through a very rocky, mostly dry but somewhat mucky, stream bed. We made several stream crossings throughout the day. Everyone stayed dry, except for a little mud.
In late afternoon we arrived at Campsite #41, next to a beautiful fast running stream. We pitched our tents and everyone proceeded to fix and eat dinner. I was amazed at how fast dinner was prepared using lightweight backpacking stoves, and how delicious it was using dehydrated fruits and vegetables, instant rice and rice noodles, seasonings, and boiled stream water. Mike rounded up some firewood, David and Marc got a fire going, Jamie and I enjoyed watching them, and we all enjoyed the fire as long as we could.
Body parts get cold quickly while sitting around the campsite. I learned that layering (and lots of it) is the key to keeping warm, and that having plenty of dry clothes to change into after hiking all day is a must, in addition to wearing a cozy hat while sitting around and sleeping. Glove/sock liners and hand/foot warmers are a big plus too. At about 8:30, the fire was dying down, so we put our food and other items that might tempt wildlife into stuff sacks and hoisted them up onto bear cables. Everyone said their goodnights, and off to another peaceful, cozy night’s sleep in a winter wonderland.
We woke up on Sunday morning with the sun starting to peek through the clouds. We fixed and ate breakfast, took down the tents, repacked our backpacks, and off we went again, down and over 5 more fabulous, gloriously beautiful miles of the Smoky’s! The temps warmed considerably as we hiked back down the mountains and almost all traces of snow disappeared. We stopped for a snack and to shed layers of clothing, it was turning into a sunny spring day! We crossed many streams on the way back down that ran alongside and through gorgeous rhododendron thickets. Some streams had bridges, some didn’t. Jamie took pictures. A couple of trees along the trail looked as if they belonged in Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. They were awesome!
And then, the end of the trail. Our backpacking adventure was over. But the weekend adventure wasn’t! We all piled into Marc’s Toyota and Mike took us on a tour of the Cataloochee Valley, about 2-miles from where we had parked. We came upon the elk herd grazing on both sides of the road! They were beautiful. We drove slowly through them while taking pictures. They didn’t bat an eyelash. We drove past the old Beech Grove church and schoolhouse, and got out to tour the Caldwell Place homestead and barn.
It was a grand ending to a wonderful adventure! We then changed back into our traveling clothes, headed to Cracker Barrel in Asheville, and then, headed home. Til next time. . . .
|
|
