The Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy is leading a hike to Hemphill Bald at Cataloochee Ranch at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 13.

The moderate 5-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation change of 900 feet begins on a road used for hiking and horseback riding, marked by fall flowers, mountain streams, and cove hardwood forest mixed at times with hemlock stands and the rhododendron and mountain laurel.

As the trail reaches the ridge top, woods are replaced by open high altitude pastureland and with the chance for views of four counties and a number of mountaintops under clear conditions. The preserved tract is adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The cost is free for SAHC members and $10 for non-SAHC members. This moderate 5-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation change of 900 feet begins on a road used for hiking and horseback riding.

828.253.0095 ext. 205 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.