Date: July 10, 2007

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is offering two ranger-led hikes on Sunday, July 15, and Saturday, July 28, at two locations in the North Carolina area of the Park.

Sunday, July 15, A High Elevation Hike to Andrews Bald

The Andrews Bald hike begins at 11 a.m. and will lead to one of the few remaining high elevation grassy balds or meadows in the Smoky Mountains. The round-trip hike to Andrews Bald is 3.6 miles with an elevation change of about 800 feet.

Andrews Bald is the highest grassy bald in the Park at 5,820 feet and is the most accessible. Although the hike is rated moderate, there are some steep sections and portions of the trail are very rocky. The guided portion of the hike will end at Andrews Bald so participants can return to the parking area at their own pace.

Scientists are still unsure as to the origins of the balds in southern Appalachia, but do know they were historically used for summer grazing of livestock. Although the forest has reclaimed some of the balds and has reduced the size of others since the creation of the Park in the 1930s, Andrews is one of two grassy balds that the Park actively maintains at its current size.

Participants should have water and may also want to pack a lunch or snack to eat once the group reaches the bald.

Saturday, July 28, A Sunset Hike to Clingmans Dome

The Clingmans Dome hike begins at 6:30 p.m. and will cover 1.5 miles in the Clingmans Dome area. While the overall guided hike, using portions of several trails that include a short section of the Appalachian Trail, is considered moderate, the paved, short Clingmans Dome Trail to the observation tower is a strenuous 300-foot climb. The guided portion of the hike will conclude at the observation tower.

A full moon is expected during the night of the Clingmans Dome hike, and if weather cooperates, participants could see a sunset and a moon rise from the Park’s highest elevation, 6,643 feet. The ranger leading the hike will have maps and historic photographs to help illustrate the natural and cultural history of the area. A flashlight will be necessary on this hike since it will finish after dark. Hikers may also want to bring a snack and a beverage.

The place to meet the ranger for both hikes will be at the west end of the Clingmans Dome parking area near the bulletin board.

"Participants should be prepared for hiking in the Smokies," said Park Ranger Tom Robbins. "It is recommended to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Because weather in the Smoky Mountains can be unpredictable, particularly at the higher elevations, a light jacket and rain gear are also recommended," he continued.

Clingmans Dome Road is located off Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441); a 45-minute drive from Gatlinburg, Tenn., or Cherokee, N.C. For more information, call the Oconaluftee Visitor Center at (828) 497-1904.