Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 10/3/2026 9:00 AM
Signup Deadline: 10/1/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Nicole Mazgaj
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: R-25, Moderate
Intended Pace: Medium
Elevation Gain: 1500 ft.
Description: As many of you know, hiking in the Uwharrie mountains is at its best in the fall and winter. In early October, the foliage will have started to turn. Although not at its peak in this area south of the Triad, it is beautiful enough to entice us to return after the critters, flying, crawling, and slithering, are making themselves scarce while preparing for hibernation in hidden nooks and crannies. We will hike in the area located at the northern end of the forest, in the Birkhead Wilderness. I love that area for its variety of landscape and vegetation, and for its constant changes from unending vistas on undulating terrain to cozy creekside trails lined with groves of rhododendrons and mountain laurels. We will start from the Thornburg Farm trailhead, hiking in a loop via Hannah’s Branch, Birkhead Mountain, and Robbins Branch. Even though this is considered a moderate hike by experienced hikers, there are several sustained ascents and descents that may not be suitable for beginners. PLEASE REGISTER BY THE SPECIFIED DEADLINE. I WILL PROMPTLY GET BACK TO YOU WITH CARPOOLING, AND MEETING PLACES AND TIMES OPTIONS.
