Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 2/21/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 2/20/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Peter Warren
Distance: 14 miles
Difficulty: R-41, Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 4200 ft.
Description:
This hike features two excellent viewpoints up to and along the three ridges in the Summer months. I expect many, many more in mid-February, when the leaves are down. The second half of the hike follows a creek with beautiful scenery. If the water’s high enough, there’s a few waterfalls.
The full route is 14 miles with 4,100 feet of elevation gain over some parts with rugged terrain. It will be mid-winter, so the ground may have snow or ice. I recommend bringing micro spikes if there is.
You can find the hike on AllTrails: Three Ridges Loop via Appalachian Trail and Mau-Har Trail. We’ll take the loop counterclockwise, staying on the AT for the 1st 7-8 miles. From the start, there’s a steady 3,000-foot climb over the first 6 miles, followed by another solid climb near the end.
This is a strenuous hike. Please don’t consider this hike unless you’ve hiked at least 10-miles with 2,500 elevation gain.
I’m based in Chapel Hill and will be traveling from there. I will help arrange the carpool for those traveling from Greensboro (Carolina’s Diner) and Winston-Salem (Tractor Supply Company) a week or so prior to the hike. Feel free to contact me with questions.
Required Gear: Keep an eye on the ground cover. Possibly micro spikes.
Max Participants: 15
