Day Hike: Three Ridges/Mah-Har Trail

OVERVIEW

This is a strenuous circuit hike in the Three Ridges wilderness area. It follows along the Appalachian Trail and then returns via the Mah-Har Trail. We’ll cover 12-13 miles.

Three Ridges towers three thousand feet above the Tye River and surrounding apple orchards. Both the A.T. and the Mah-Har trails are steep, with more than 4500 ft. of total elevation gain for the trip (which is a lot for a day hike!).
For the Appalachian trail portion of the hike- we will ascend the high ridge line to 4,000′- there are really nice views of the valley below and ‘The Priest’ mountain (and there’s also a great place to have lunch). On the way back, we’ll follow the Mah-Har trail along a widening stream where we’ll see some intersecting waterfalls and gorges. Keep in mind this hike is steep – it’s probably one of the hardest loop hikes close to C’ville, but it’s worth it! I’ll be carrying a moderately weighted backpack to test it (so we won’t be moving too fast). You’re welcome to do the same, or you can bring a light day pack. (Thanks to officer emeritus Rick for the trip description).

I’ll expand the trip size if more drivers sign up.

You bring:
-lots of water
-lunch, snacks
-warm clothes (fleece, etc.) – it’ll be chilly when we stop
-wind/rain jacket
-headlamp, if you have one
-camera if you want

Club provides:
-gas dineros + 30%