The Carolina Mountain Club offers a variety of area challenge hikes. If you really want to get to know these mountains, one of the most interesting ways to do it is through one of their four challenge programs. These are programs that you can do at your own pace. The results are satisfaction, an award, a patch and a much better knowledge of our mountains.
The granddaddy of them all is the South Beyond 6000 program, known as the "SB6K." Climb to the very summit of the 50/6000-foot peaks on their list to earn the award. Once you've accomplished this, whenever you see a really high peak you can say to yourself, "I've been up there!"
The Pisgah 400 Challenge is to hike all the maintained trails in the Pisgah District of the Pisgah National Forest. There are roughly 400 miles of trail, and there's no better way to learn the local mountains and trail network. In fact, you'll be an expert when you're done.
If you are a photographer or just love views, the Lookout Tower Challenge will take you to the tops of 24 lookout towers. Some are easy to get to, others merit the word "challenge." All provide wonderful vistas. Unfortunately, there are fewer towers every year, so hurry.
Another challenge with a lot of great scenery is the Waterfall and Cascade Challenge. Visit the 100 falls and cascades on our list and you can have some really nice pictures. It's a great mixture of easy and challenging hikes, each one with a beautiful reward.
If your New Year's resolution includes spending more time outdoors enjoying nature, visit www.carolinamtnclub.com.
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