Start the New Year off on the right foot by joining NC High Peaks for their annual First Day Hike on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
This year we will hike from the Buck Creek Gap Overlook to the Black Mountains Overlook. The 4.5-mile out-and-back hike is along the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and a Forest Service road and will include 650 feet of elevation gain.
The jaunt is rated as moderately strenuous and will take approximately three hours to complete. The payoff is a spectacular view of the eastern slopes of the Black Mountain range from the overlook.
Hikers will meet at 10:00 a.m. in the Buck Creek Gap Overlook parking area at the intersection of Highway 80 South and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Bring water, a snack and hiking poles if you use them. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended and be prepared for cool and changing weather conditions.
Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome, but be prepared to clean up after your pup.
Contact hike leader Diane Schramm by phone or text at (904) 349-0479 to let her know you are coming or if you have any questions.
