Hey Trailblazers! Are you ready for a blockbuster hike with an absolutely jaw-dropping view? Then this is the one for you! Now, if you’ve never seen the dramatic view from atop the summit of Pickens Nose (Yes, you read the name right, lol!) or the huge nearby Cherokee cave, then you are in for a treat! So come join us for a day of awe-inspiring scenery, good exercise and great fellowship as we get out and explore God’s incredible creation. WEATHER PERMITTING (All day rain off) Forecast looks good. TIME: 11am – 3pm MEET & GREET ADDRESS: Ingles Clayton – 176 Hwy 441 Clayton, GA. Look in the outer parking lot for a white Chevy Avalanche or a group gathering. We will drive from here to just over the NC border to the trailhead in Otto, NC. HIKE DIFFICULTY: D3+, (Total 4-mile hike) Agility is needed! We will be doing some bushwhacking over some obstacles and deadfall on steep ground. Hiking Rating Scale: D1 Easy (beginner hikers) mostly flat D2 Easy to moderate (regular hikers) some hills D3 Moderate (a cardio workout) mountainous, some steep D4 Moderate to strenuous (challenging workout) Steep grades/moderate distance. D5 Strenuous (serious physical challenge) Very steep and far TRAILHEAD LOCATION: Cowetta Hydological area in Otto, NC. TRAIL DESCRIPTION: This is one of those “up in and down out” steep trails but not too long in distance. The trail climbs steadily from the parking area through a beautiful old growth and Rhododendron Forest. This is truly one hike you don’t want to miss. Once atop the summit, there are multiple outcrops to view from. STORM DAMAGE: Most likely, there will be some blow downs that we will have to climb over and through. So having agility is a must. ROAD CONDITIONS: Please know that we will take curvy gravel roads to the trailheads. DEVOTIONAL: We will do a short devotional once atop the summit. LATE LUNCH: 3pm at Mexican (La Cabana) in Clayton WHAT TO BRING: Small Day Pack to carry your gear- rain jacket, camera, water, etc. Optional Things to Bring: Hiking Poles, First-Aid Kit, PLEASE NOTE: This is a single adult only event. Also, please do not bring pets or animals. Thank you for your cooperation. CARPOOL MEETPOINTS: Please arrive ready to go with stomachs filled, cars gased, and bladders empty. ***Carpooling is encouraged, but not required. ***MUST READ: These are set up as a convenience, therefore we do not know who will be at each location. You do not need to drive to other meet points except the final in Clayton where we will do our Meet & Greet. • DAWSONVILLE: Meet at PUBLIX in outer lot by Chili's. Look for people in cars. Meet at 9:20am, leave 9:30am sharp. • OAKWOOD: Meet in the outer parking lot of Goodwill. Look for people in cars. Time 9:45am, leave 9:50am sharp. KEEP IN MIND: There are always dangerous and unforeseen elements when out in nature: Cliffs, water hazards, weather, animals, insects, reptiles, falling limbs or rocks, Poison Ivy, Oak, Sumac, etc. Trails may be un-maintained, slippery, rocky, icy and have steep embankments. Shoes and clothing may get muddy or wet. The woods are your bathroom. WAIVER: By attending, each person assumes all responsibility and liability for themselves and their actions and hereby releases Echo Ministries, its employees, directors, officers, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability resulting from any loss, injury, illness, damages, or death, while attending, participating or volunteering in this event. Make sure that anyone you invite receives this information and understands and agrees to all aspects of it, otherwise you’re responsible for them. TRIP LEADER: Greg Ford at gregford@echoministries.com or 770-316-9200