Over 35 people came to Nantahala Outdoor Center to enjoy hiking, rafting and biking. On Saturday, three hikes were led: Wesser Bald (challenging), Appletree loop (which turned out to be more challenging than the challenging hike) and an easy walk on the A.T.

The five who partook in rafting trip on Saturday enjoyed the journey despite the nippy end. A hot 20 minute shower greatly improved my outlook at 5:30 or so. Hope Teresa and Linda enjoyed the Friday trip they had planned. I think my next rafting trip will be when it is hotter.

On Sunday, two groups did the Naked Ground - Haoe Lead - Jenkins Meadow loop, with a fast group led by Stuart Tauber and a moderately-paced group led by Jim Reel. Everyone enjoyed the hike, although a few hikers got stung by a yellowjackets near the Naked Ground. Lunch was on soft grass at the top of the climb. Supper was enjoyed by six hikers at the Jarrett House. Those hikers who went on both challenging hikes this weekend can brag that we did 21 miles and climbed 6,300 feet.

The moderate hike went to Tsali Recreation Area for 12 easy miles on the Left Loop with outstanding views of Fontana Lake. Though this was a bike day, we were not bothered by bikes. They were polite and we were cooperative. We decided at the beginning to all move to the right as soon as the sweep saw bikes and blew the whistle.

An easy hike was led by Becky Elston up the Naked Ground Trail. Unfortunately Becky fell at the end of the hike and fractured her ankle. We wish her a speedy recovery.

From Jeff Dektor: The trip to Joyce Kilmer was enjoyable as we had a fantastic hike leader who endured pain for all of us. Years ago I remember watching my grandmother successfully untangle jumbled string. Remember the string along the trail. I was meticulously untangling a jumble of it until I reached a tiny tiny tiny knot. At that point I threw it away. Not as good as my grandmother yet.

There was a enthusiastic agreement among the hikers to do it again next year. Same place, same time. There are lots more trails to do in the area. The lodging was fine and the meals were good.