FMST: Trail Log

MST Trail Log Information

Trail Notes on the MST - west to east

CMC Sections - all open and in good shape.

Linville Gorge - Fires have been an issue this year - for a full up date call the Grandfather Ranger District

Sauratown Trail/MST - all open - chainsaw work is complete

Greensboro - Open - go hike!

Falls Lake - Open - go hike!

Neusiok Trails - Open - expect bugs, snakes, and some wet feet in areas.

MST East bound Temporary route bypassing the Cunningham Trent River Bridge.

On Section 34 after passing the Craven Regional Medical Center at 15.3 Miles continue on past the New Bern Fire Station on the Right. At 16 Miles turn Right onto First Street and the temporary route. First Street changes name to Pembroke in short distance. Lawson Creek Park entrance road is on the left at 16.5 Miles . Continue past the park to the traffic light and turn Left unto the US70/US 17 Pembroke off ramp. Stay left facing traffic across the Trent River and follow the Left turn of US 17 North crossing the New Bern off ramp at 18.35 Miles and crossing the Neuse River. At 19.85 Miles turn Left up the US 55 entrance ramp. At 20.56 Miles the US 55 off ramp for US 17 North is on the left. To visit Bridgeton turn left down the ramp onto US 17 North into Bridgeton and the end of Section 34. To bypass Bridgeton and continue on to Section 35 cross the Bridgeton exit ramp and continue East on NC 55 passing the Food Lion Shopping area on the right. At 21 Miles is Mallard Fuel and Food completing the bypass.

MST West bound Temporary route bypassing the Cunningham Trent River Bridge.

To bypass Bridgeton from Mallard Fuel and Food shop walk on the left side of the road passing the Food Lion Shopping area at 0.1 Miles and the junction with US 17 North at 0.75 Miles staying left cross the Neuse River. Cross over the James City to US 17 North ramp at 2.85 Miles , the US 17 to New Bern Off ramp at 3.1 Miles, the New Bern to US 17 on ramp at 3.3 Miles and continue on to cross the Trent River. Crossing under Pembroke road at 4.56 Miles turn Left up the ramp to the traffic light at Pembroke road at 4.72 Miles and turn sharp Left crossing over US 70. Continue past Lawson Creek Park entrance road on the Right at 4.98 Miles . Pembroke road changes to First Street. Continue on First street to Neuse Blvd light at 5.43 Miles and turn Left passing the New Bern Fire Station and completing the bypass.

To enter Bridgeton from Mallard’s walk on the right side of US 55 to the off ramp for US 17 and continue down the ramp into Bridgeton. To leave Bridgeton and continue on west, retrace the route back toward Mallard’s and cross US 55 at Gallaway road turn right on US 55 and follow Bridgeton bypass instructions above.

Submitted on 2-4-05 - US Forest Service Update

Dear Friends of the Mountains to Sea Trail,

My apologies for not being able to attend your 2005 Annual Meeting. We have a number of exciting projects involving the Mountains-to-Sea Trail occurring on the Grandfather Ranger District that I want to share with you.
First of all, the North Fork Catawba River Footbridge in McDowell County. After numerous contractor and weather delays, we extended the completion date from January 14, 2005, to March 15, 2005, with hopes that it will be done much sooner than that. So far, the area has been cleared and excavation occurring for the piers and abutments. The actual pre-fabricated bridge is being stored in the community of Woodlawn. When the time gets close for the bridge to be flown in and installed, I will share this information with Allen, Jeff and Bob. Along these same lines, Allen and I have started discussing plans for a dedication of this bridge, as well as the trail from the bridge to Bald Knob. We will keep you informed of this, as well.

The trails and roads traversing the Grandfather Ranger District were hit quite hard by the three hurricanes that passed through the area last September. Luckily, Congress passed a $47.2 million dollar supplemental to the Forest in order to repair the damages across the Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie and Croatan National Forests. On the Grandfather Ranger District, we are bringing in individuals to assist us with trail repairs. We brought in 6 crews from out west to assist us with cutting out the trails in Linville Gorge Wilderness with crosscut saws. They completed this task in January. There are three crews now with chainsaws working to clear out the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. We are working with Caldwell and McDowell Counties and have hired four trail crews to do tread repairs. Their goal is 80 miles between now and June. We have also identified the need to relocate portions of the trails to include switchbacks, etc., for 18 trails. Our goal is to put the trails back in better condition than what they were prior to the storms.

To check out the latest information concerning storm recovery efforts on all four forests, on the National Forests in NC website: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/.
As always, I look forward to working with you in the upcoming year.

Sincerely,

Miera B. Crawford
District Ranger

Submitted on 11-11-02

I want to second Phil Piaski's comments about the section up Shortoff
Mountain from the Linville River. Right after you cross the river it is
not clear where to go. It is confusing because of the private property
markers, and whoever owns that property has several trails/primitive roadsof their own. I wasn't as lucky as Phil and ended up just scrambling
straight up the side of the gorge hoping to find the trail again at the
top of the ridge. I found it up there, but it's almost impassable.
Heading up to the top of Shortoff mountain is extremely slow going becauseof all the downed trees. I don't think I'd be exaggerating to say there'sone down across the trail about every 10 feet. Heading back down to theriver, I lost the trail again pretty soon and had to map/compass my wayout.


	MST Trail Log Information

	For MST trail conditions from Soco Gap - BRP to Black Mt. Campground also consult the CMC website at: http://www.carolinamtnclub.com/

	Thru-Hikers on the MST often give updated trail conditions on Trail Journals.

	Submitted April 2008 Trail Notes on the MST - west to east Bald Knob to Woodlawn - all trees have been removed - good for hiking. BRP - NC-16 to Devils Garden Overlook - in the process of removing all trees. Sauratown Trail - Open - good for hiking Falls Lake - All 37 miles are in great shape and ready for the spring rush of day hikers Neusiok Trail - winter workdays were great - ready for spring hiking.

	Submitted November 2007 Trail Notes on the MST - west to east As you well know water is a huge issue - make sure you carry enough - do not rely on seasonal springs and water sources. NEW MST Section - NC-16 to NC-18 - along the Blue Ridge Parkway - 15 miles - All signs and blazes are up - go hike and thank a FMST Volunteer for making this section happen. Next up - work has already stared from NC-16 to US-421 - come help us! Falls Lake - Highway 98 at Lick Creek to NC-50 - new trail section is open - about 7 miles - all signs and blazes are up.

	Submitted June 2007 Trail Notes on the MST - west to east CMC Sections - all open and in good shape. Linville Gorge - Fires have been an issue this year - for a full up date call the Grandfather Ranger District Sauratown Trail/MST - all open - chainsaw work is complete Greensboro - Open - go hike! Falls Lake - Open - go hike! Neusiok Trails - Open - expect bugs, snakes, and some wet feet in areas.

	Submitted March 2007 - New Bern area MST East bound Temporary route bypassing the Cunningham Trent River Bridge. On Section 34 after passing the Craven Regional Medical Center at 15.3 Miles continue on past the New Bern Fire Station on the Right. At 16 Miles turn Right onto First Street and the temporary route. First Street changes name to Pembroke in short distance. Lawson Creek Park entrance road is on the left at 16.5 Miles . Continue past the park to the traffic light and turn Left unto the US70/US 17 Pembroke off ramp. Stay left facing traffic across the Trent River and follow the Left turn of US 17 North crossing the New Bern off ramp at 18.35 Miles and crossing the Neuse River. At 19.85 Miles turn Left up the US 55 entrance ramp. At 20.56 Miles the US 55 off ramp for US 17 North is on the left. To visit Bridgeton turn left down the ramp onto US 17 North into Bridgeton and the end of Section 34. To bypass Bridgeton and continue on to Section 35 cross the Bridgeton exit ramp and continue East on NC 55 passing the Food Lion Shopping area on the right. At 21 Miles is Mallard Fuel and Food completing the bypass. MST West bound Temporary route bypassing the Cunningham Trent River Bridge. To bypass Bridgeton from Mallard Fuel and Food shop walk on the left side of the road passing the Food Lion Shopping area at 0.1 Miles and the junction with US 17 North at 0.75 Miles staying left cross the Neuse River. Cross over the James City to US 17 North ramp at 2.85 Miles , the US 17 to New Bern Off ramp at 3.1 Miles, the New Bern to US 17 on ramp at 3.3 Miles and continue on to cross the Trent River. Crossing under Pembroke road at 4.56 Miles turn Left up the ramp to the traffic light at Pembroke road at 4.72 Miles and turn sharp Left crossing over US 70. Continue past Lawson Creek Park entrance road on the Right at 4.98 Miles . Pembroke road changes to First Street. Continue on First street to Neuse Blvd light at 5.43 Miles and turn Left passing the New Bern Fire Station and completing the bypass. To enter Bridgeton from Mallard’s walk on the right side of US 55 to the off ramp for US 17 and continue down the ramp into Bridgeton. To leave Bridgeton and continue on west, retrace the route back toward Mallard’s and cross US 55 at Gallaway road turn right on US 55 and follow Bridgeton bypass instructions above.

	Submitted January 2007 (west to east) The MST is now complete and ready to hike from Woodfin Cascades Overlook on the BRP to Balsam Gap South - look for the blue blaze trail from Woodfin Cascades overlook to the MST - walk north/east towards Balsam Gap South on the BRP. Congrats to the CMC for their great work. Work will continue in this area towards Soco Gap. Bald Knob - Marion - NC-221 - The trail was cleared this month by MST volunteers. Some major trees remain on the trail that will require a chainsaw. Beacon Heights to NC-321 in Blowing Rock - The BRP staff has blazed this section of the MST with white MST blazes. Falls Lake - Raleigh - All open and ready for hiking Croatan Forest - All open and ready for hiking OBX - The MST from Frisco campground through the Buxton woods to Cape Hatteras lighthouse has been blazed with the MST white blazes by MST Volunteers.

	Submitted November 6, 2006 Falls Lake/MST - The bridge on Section 7 has been replaced - thanks to NC State Parks and Rec. for helping us out with lumber and construction. Section 1 - a 200 yard relocation of the MST has taken place - we took it off a wildlife service road and placed it back in the woods - white blazes are up so you are set. Section 5 and 6 - fresh MST blazes are up for you to walk these sections. The Falls Lake section of the MST is in great shape for fall and winter hiking.

	Submitted October 2006 RE: Linville Gorge - MST - Bob Benner - Central Blue Ridge Task Force Leader. Crossing the Linville River. Linville Gorge - Refrence page 90 of DeHarts book on the MST in approaching the Linville River. After a fairly steep ascent to a knob Desend, turning RIGHT onto an old logging road. Following a series of old roads arrive at a flat. Bear right about 50 yds then turn sharply left enetering an open field, known locally as the Boy Scout Camp. Bear left before reaching the river and follow the trail 0.1 to river crossing. Cross the river diagonally upstream. Continue 0.1 mi to where the trail turns sharply right and begin ascending. Approximately 0.3 mi the Linville River Connector Trail (blue blazed) from NC 126 intersects. From there it is 2.4 mi to 126 on the connector trail. Continue straight at the intersection to Short Off Mountain.

	Submitted October 2006 RE: Falls Lake Trail/MST On September 30, 2006 the Falls Lake Trail received routine maintenance and is in excellent condition for fall hiking in North Raleigh.

	Submitted September 2006 RE: Sauratown Trail/MST Reports have come in that the STA/MST is in fair shape and ready for fall hiking.

	Submitted September 2006 RE: Neusiok Trail/MST The 8 miles of trail from 306 to 306 is still closed for hurricane repairs by the USFS.

	Submitted August 2006 RE: Great Smoky Mountains - MST A group of us did the Thomas Divide Tr to Newton Bald Tr to Mingus Creek Tr to Mingus Mill yesterday and we had no problem picking up the Newton Bald trail. Signage was good and the trails were in good shape. Taylor

	Submitted on 7-25-06 Falls Lake Trail/MST - We have a bridge out on Section 7 near the Yorkshire Center. You can "rock hop" it right now, we hope to get a bridge in there ASAP. Site reviews will be made to fix the issue in this wet area.

	Submitted on 7-15-06 I rode the MST road route from the Little River County Park to Highway 119 - north of Mebane. All road signs are up and easy to follow in Orange and Durham County.

	Submitted on 7-7-06 Falls Lake/MST - Tropical Storm Alberto dumped lots of rain on the trail. We are currently reviewing the 26 miles of trail and taking action to clean up after the storm.

	Submitted on 7-7-06 by John Jaskolka The Neusiok Trail/MST is still closed "for hurricane repairs" from Pine cliff road to 306 Junction as of July 1, 2006. Beach clean up and blazing on hold until open. Hikers going south need to walk 306 to the junction and turn left at parking lot.

	Submitted on 6-4-06 On National Trails Day - June 3 the Falls Lake Task Forces cleared and cut back overgrowth on Sections 7,8, and 10. A small MST relo was done around the Corps of Engineers office, look for the new white blazes.

	Submitted on 4-2-06- by Jeff Brewer On April 1, 2006 the Falls Lake section of the MST was walked and cleared of blow-downs and received regular trail maintenane. A small relo of the trail took place on Section 4 and a 12 foot bridge was installed on Section 10. The entire 26 miles is in great shape and ready for spring hiking.

	Submitted on 3-5-06- by Jeff Brewer On March 4, 2006 the Falls Lake section of the MST was walked and cleared of blow-downs and received regular trail maintenane. The entire 26 miles is in good shape and ready for spring hiking.

	Submitted on 2-5-06- by Jeff Brewer for Phil Pulski On January 28, 2006 the MST from the North Fork of the Catawba River Bridge to the top of Bald Knob was cleared of any down trees. Regular maintenane will continue on this section.

	Submitted on 1-3-06- by Jeff Brewer for Bob Dixon FYI, I hiked from Arrowhead Inn to the Wake County line on Friday, and there were a number of discrepancies in the guidebook. The worst one was the turn onto "Veasy road" from Butner Rd. The guidebook says this is at 11.7 miles, at a sign for "West Butner". If you look at the mileage numbers in the book this is obviously off by at least a mile, because it talks about the Polk Youth Institute being beyond it at mile 10.5. There's no sign for the road, and there's no "West Butner" sign either. It's just "Butner". Also, the road name is really "Veazey". I got really messed up because I didn't look for the road until about 11.5 miles and hiked an extra 2 miles in the wrong direction looking for a cross road before giving up and backtracking. Also, there's a supposed 3 mile distance between the 1942 water tower and NC-56 in Butner that can't be much more than a mile, and the road is not labelled NC-56. I think it's actually C street. NC-56 doesn't begin until a block down C street past the intersection.

	Submitted on 11-14-05 - by Jeff Brewer RE - Croatan Forest - Neusiok Trail - On Saturay and Sunday the Neusiok Trail was cleaned by 28 volunteers for a total of 330 hours of service. - Section 306 to 101 - several 100 feet of board walk were installed to keep hikers feet dry. Section 101 to USFS Road - Billfinger Road was cleaned back in a major way. Two weedeaters ran for 8 hours straight to cut this section back.

	Submitted on 11-6-05 - by Ray Shaw, BRP Staff FYI......downed trees on Tanawha Trail as mentioned in message below have been removed by NPS crew week of Oct. 10, 2005.

	Submitted on 11-5-05 - by Jeff Brewer RE - Falls Lake - Sections 7,8, and 10 were walked and received maintenance on 11-5-05. Reports show that all of the Falls Lake sections are in good shape.

	Submitted on 11-5-05 - by Jeff Brewer RE - Bald Knob - The MST from the North Fork of the Catawba Rive to the top of Bald Knob has been cleared of any down trees and MST white blazes are up. The yellow blazed side trail leads to the great view on the top - 280 degree view of Lake James and over to Linville Gorge.

	Submitted on 9-27-05 - by Jeff Brewer RE - Falls Lake Trail/MST, North Raleigh UPDATE - This section is back open. Section 8 of the Falls Lake Trail (Possum Track Road to Red Fox Road) is closed due to a timber cut by the NC Wildlife Commission. It is unsafe for hikers to use this section. Click here for a map of the area (PDF File).

	Submitted on 9-25-05 - by Matt Loomis - MST Thru-hiker 2005 Field Notes - MST Ocracoke to Hatteras - Guidebook mentions the Sea Gull motel, but not that its 1-2 miles away from the ferry station. - Seems like many of the motels have limited evening office hours. Hikers should be aware that they may need to call ahead before the office closes to get a room. They will usually leave a key outside the office if you will be arriving late. Hatteras to Avon - When leaving beach to go to Frisco campground I saw the boardwalk mentioned in the book, but not how to get on to it. Instead I walked down the OVR ramp (tough in the deep sand) to the paved road. Avon to Rodanthe - It might help to mention that under a mile after the Methodist Church in Salvo there is a gas station. Its the first store for what seemed like 10+ miles of beach. -Seems to be a number of campgrounds and motels on NC-12 in Salvo/Waves/Rodanthe not mentioned in the book. - Sea Sound Motel, off the beach 0.3 miles north of the pier in Rodanthe (right at the water tower). Good price ($44) for a good room. Rodanthe to Nags Head - The "Off limits" refuge buildings are at mile 7.8 (according to my GPS) not 7.0 - Bodie Island Dike Trail is tricky to pick up. I hopped off the road too early and got a bit confused, I turned right which just took me back to NC-12 at the "real" enterance. The trail was a bit overgrown too. - It might help to mention that there are lots of lodging options near the Jeanette's Pier and further north. Nags Head to Jockey's Ridge SP - An extra bit of text for the "Tracks in the Sand" trail would help, something like "pass an observation deck to the left, stay on the trail to the right, walk over a hill on a sandy trail, then turn left to ascend one of three dunes" Well, thats my guess at what I was supposed to do.

	Submitted on 9-11-05 - by Matt Loomis - MST Thru-hiker 2005 Field Notes - MST Mill Creek to Otway - At left turn onto Laural Rd. from NC-101, Capt. Kenny's BP station / convienence store / Big John's Pizza and Subs - No A and J Avent Park, only Wards Creek RV Park with 9-10 RV sites, called phone # and paid $10 for tent area, no restrooms. Otway to Sea Level - BP at 0.5 is now Outer Island General Store, with a Finz Grill inside, serves Breakfast, lunch, dinner - George's pizza/subs/grill after Texaco (I think its here) -Sea Level Inn (Condos and rentals) and restuarant about 1 mile from NC-12. Restuarant closed early september Sea Level to Cedar Island - Grocery store at 2 miles is out of business - Ferry now charges $3 for bicycles

	Submitted on 9-6-05 - by Jeff Brewer RE - Trail up to Bald Knob from the North Fork of the Catawba River over to Linville Gorge. An act of vandalism has occurred on this section in the act of white MST Blaze removal to painting several trees with white paint up to Bald Knob. We are working with the Forest Service to inform them of this issue. The route is passable and can be found. Some signs have also been removed.

	Submitted on 8-29-05 - by Matt Loomis - MST Thru-hiker 2005 Folk Art Center to Rattlesnake Lodge - Blowdown a few tenths of a mile after crossing Ox Cart Rd. One tree had a section chainsawed out of it, but there was still some climbing involved to get around the blowdown. Rattlesnake Lodge to Craggy Gardens - Overall there are a number of places that need some weedwacking. - One of the knobs (I think Wolfden) has a few side trails on the top all leaving from the same point. It would help to have a blaze to know which direction to go. Craggy Gardens to Mt. Mitchell - The trail from the Glassmine Overlook is not marked. While walking up the paved path to the overlook, there is no sign that the trail veers to the left. Had to ask park workers where the trail went. - Potato Knob has overgrowth that needs trimming. Woodlawn to FR-106 - Route to new bridge over Catawba not in place yet, but I think thats already posted somewhere on the site FR-106 to Table Rock - Blowdown right in front of right turn onto logging road after descending from Pinnacle. Almost missed the turnoff!! GPS location: 35 49.211N 81 54.908W Table Rock to Harpers Creek - Blowdown at first time the trail hits Stiles Creek. The trail gets to the creek fine, but after the downed tree I missed the turnoff left from the creek. I tried to go upstream but turned back after a few scrapes from the rocks! After some careful searching I saw a blaze in the woods. Maybe the downed tree had the double "turnoff" blazes? - Another blowdown at second time trail hits Stiles Creek - Don't remember where, but at one point the trail turns left off a creek and ascends steeply. The route with the blazes goes straight up the hill, but a bunch of rhodedendron branches have been scattered in the middle of the trail. After climbing up and ovr the branches I arrived at a trail left-right. This same thing happened a few times. I think someone has been converting this steep area into switchbacks, which would have been nice to follow but the blazes have not ben moved yet! Harpers Creek to Beacon Heights - No problems

Submitted on 8-12-05 - by Matt Loomis - MST Thru-hiker 2005 Stone Mt. SP to I-77 -New store called "Stone Mountain Country Store" has openned up about 2-3 miles on the Frank [something] Parkway, it has a grill, cold drinks, and other "country" goods - Roadsign at left turnoff from Thurmond Rd. just says Zephyr Rd. (Didn't catch state route number though..) A few miles down the road at the next roadsign, it starts saying Zephyr Mountain Park Rd. and does so until the end/left turn onto Zephyr Rd. I-77 to US-52 - Turkey Ford road -> Caves Mill Rd. until other side of Dobson - Watson-Philips Country store, now "Key's Grocery" - No sandwhich shop on Ararat Rd. - J&W Trading Co. at Mt. Zion Church, has limitted groceries. - Leaving Ararat confusing. About 1 mile out you pass a Community Building Road (SR-2022) on the right, same SR # as Tom Creek Road. A further mile will bring you to another Community Building Road (SR-2022) on the right, this one has a bike route sign pointing right. Following this road a mile, you see a roadsign indicating a road coming in from the right is Community Building Road (SR-2022), the road behind you is Community Building Road (SR-2022), and continuing on the road ahead is Tom Creek Road (no SR #) US-52 to Hanging Rock SP - Sauratown Trail uses white blazes everywhere, not just the MST route. A few side trails can be mistaken for MST route, there are blazes in both directions. - There were a number of places (for a few miles from Rock House Road) where it looked like trail erotion might be a problem with increased use of the trail Hanging Rock SP to Walnut Cove - A few downed trees on trail about 0.3 miles after Window Falls on Indian Creek Trail, easy to get around. - Betty's Grocery at 10.8 is closed on Aug. 9th... Betty's birthday. Maybe that factoid can make it into the guidebook ;) - Miles in guidebook approaching Walnut Cove seem to are off, goes from 10.8 to 8.8 to 15.1 . From 10.8 to 15.1 it felt closer than 4.3... driving it back we measured it around 3.1 . But I have no choice but to claim the book mileage ;) Walnut Cove to Lake Brandt - Think the grocery listed at 8.1 miles is now "Abe's Place", looks like a bar disguised as a shack.

Submitted on 8-2-05 - by Matt Loomis - MST Thru-hiker 2005 MST Beacon Heights to Blowing Rock - - On the Boone Fork Trail, there is an inviting looking trail to the left, about 0.5 mile before the actual MST splits off. Would be nice if there was a blaze(s) here to tell people to continue on Boone Fork Trail. -At the MST split off from the Boone Fork Trail, there seemed to be a series of large boulders (each chunk looked like it was a result of dynamite) placed in the water. However, it felt like there was one boulder missing that would have made rock hopping possible, instead we had to wade. Maybe a boulder was washed away? Might be an easy workday project to make it rock hoppable again... Matt - This is a result of the 2004 hurricane season and the BRP Staff are aware of the issue and plan on taking action when funding become available. - At 15.9, the MST trail turnoff to the left from old John Road has a signpost, but the sign is missing. If you continue on the road about 0.2 mile it looks like it disappears under a possibly newly flooded area (as a result of beaver dam) Matt - The BRP staff are aware of the Beaver dam and they are dealing with environmental laws that state what they can and cannot due to beaver dams. - In Moses Cone park, at the end of the Rich Mountain Trail in the cattle and horse pasture there is a sign with only one half, looks like it might have a distance to Trout Pond on it. There is no MST indicators. We took a left, and in about 20 feet is another carriage road (left-right), to the right its about 200 feet to another set of signs, we yelled up to people standing at these signs, they said it also had a distance to Trout Pond, but no MST indicators. The FMST hopes to blaze this area soon, but not until the BRP staff makes a decision about the beaver dam and the creek crossing. It is very important to obtain the BRP trail maps for this area.

Submitted on 6-22-05 by the CMC Those of you who hike the MST between Hwy 25 and I-26 have noticed a lot of damage to the trail. The Biltmore Farm Corp. is exercising their right to put a road on the Right of Way and it happened to be exactly on the same place as the MST. Therefore the BRP requested that the CMC Trail Crews assist them in re locating the MST on to the Parkway property. One quarter of a mile of new trail has been build and new 30 ft. bridge spanning 31 ft was constructed. All new blazing will now lead you through the woods. This kind of work is not unusual for the Carolina Mountain Club Trail Crews but what is unusual is that this bridge will be visible to thousands Asheville Blue Ridge Parkway drivers and tourists. This section of the MST is also the most traveled by foot traffic. This area of the MST is also expected to be used as an amenity by the new residents in the development being constructed by Biltmore Farms. Please congratulate Piet Bodenhorst and his crew for a job well done!

Submitted on 6-20-05 There is a short relocation on the east end of Section 14 of the Sauratown Trail, evidently to avoid land clearing operations. This has not been updated in their trail description, and could be confusing to hikers entering the section from the east. The relocated trail now begins directly across Bradley Road from the gravel driveway at the west end of Section 13, rather than 60 feet to the left. There is not a section post at the point where the section now begins. The trail runs down the left edge of a field, enters woods briefly, curves around and leaves the woods to follow the left edge of another field. It re-enters the woods just before rejoining the old trail near the bridge at 17.55 miles. Blazes are non-existent on the field edges, but there are a few pieces of orange ribbon in trees and bushes. Blazing in the woods is fine. There is a sign at the west end of the relocation which makes it easier for eastbound hikers to follow. Kathy and I have enjoyed section-hiking the Sauratown trail recently. Glad this has become a part of the MST. Chris Underhill, Raleigh, NC

Submitted on 6-5-05 Falls Lake - MST - New signs were installed on Section 4. 10 waterbars and 5 check dams were installed on Section 10. Summer growth was cut back on Sections 4,7, and 10. The Falls Lake section of the MST is in top shape for summer hikes.

Submitted on 5-16-05 Blue Ridge Parkway - The MST is now open from NC-18 to Devils Garden Overlook (entrance to Stone Mt. State Park) - 14.5 miles of trail.

Submitted on 5-4-05 - Central Blue Ridge Task Force The Central Blue Ridge Task Force cleaned the MST from Woodlawn at NC-221 to the North Fork Catawba River Bridge. Several trees were removed by chainsaw. The bridge is now complete and hikers can use it to cross the river.

Submitted on 4-11-05 - USFS For more information contact: Miera Crawford, District Ranger, 828-652-2144 A contractor for the PISGAH NATIONAL FOREST (McDowell County) installed a 200-foot pedestrian bridge across the North Fork Catawba River north of Marion, NC, on Sunday, 4/10/05. Utilizing a helicopter, four prefabricated 50-foot sections of the bridge, were lowered onto recently constructed concrete piers. The contractor still has to finish pouring the last abutment, install the wooden decking and put down seed and mulch. Everything should be completed and ready for public use by the end of April. A formal dedication is planned for sometime this fall. The bridge will provide safe, year-round passage across the North Fork Catawba River for hikers of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This trail, once completed, will stretch across the state of North Carolina. The North Fork Catawba Footbridge is made possible through a partnership among the Friends of Mountains-to-Sea Trail, USDA Forest Service and State of North Carolina, Department of Natural Resources. Funding for the bridge was made possible through the state sponsored Recreation Trail Grant program.

Submitted on 3-21-05 - CMC Temporary MST Relocation near Hwy 25 at BRP 389.25 There is a Biltmore Development near Deerfield soon being constructed within 100 feet of the Parkway. The road that the MST has shared is being expanded and the MST has today been temporilary relocated onto the BRP to go past this area. The permanent relocation will be worked on in the next 1-2 months and involves constructing a foot bridge over the stream. The Biltmore Farms Construction Group will be helping the CMC and the BRP design and construct the bridge after which the CMC will build the new relocation trail. We think this will be a positive project that will allow and involve the Biltmore Housing Residents to share a very fine section of the MST. Don Walton

Submitted on 3-6-05 - Falls Lake, Raleigh, NC The entire Falls Lake Trail/ MST (26 miles) was cleaned of all blow downs and cut back for spring growth. The trail is in excellent shape!

Submitted on 3-4-05 - Croatan Forest The entire Neusiok Trail/MST has been blazed with white MST blazes for you to find your way. This 21 mile section also has tin strips as blazes. John Jaskolka - FMST Board Member

Submitted on 2-21-05 - Croatan Forest - UPDATE On Sunday February 20, 2005 the Carteret County Wildlife Club using materials provided by the USFS built a 450 foot walkway through the most complained about obstacle on the entire Neusiok Trail, a 300 foot long, sometimes thigh deep Koi Pond-cum Cottonmouth Spa that lies about a mile SE of the NC306 crossing. Additionally the troublesome portion of the trail just E of NC 306 was re-marked and relocated to lie entirely within USFS property where the marks will be more secure and the scenery more woodsy, given that the new route will not now be subject to the numerous disruptions associated with the intensive silviculture occurring on the private property where the trail marking had become disrupted. The new routing will require hikers to creatively cross a smallish swamp drain until the old bridge can be relocated to the new route or a new bridge built. Addition to the other report: The impact of hunting on use of the Neusiok Trail ought to be low. The intensity of hunting in sparsely populated Craven and Carteret Counties is rarely so high that use of the trail during any cool month should be discouraged. fact: In 2004 more hunters in NC were killed(3 total I recall) by falling out of trees(2) than by shooting accidents. The hunting issue is a non-issue. Gene Huntsman

Submitted on 2-20-05 - Croatan Forest I hiked the Neusiok Trail in Croatan National Forest on 4 - 5 February and was pleasantly surprised. The trail was one of the best marked trails I have ever hiked, between the white MST blazes and the metal tags. It was generally easy to follow and clear of brush. The scenery was really beautiful, from the windswept beaches along the Neuse River to the wetlands along other creeks and rivers. The forest was pretty clear of brush, providing a real feeling of openness. I had the luxury of hiking after a trail maintenance weekend, so high weeds were not a problem. There were three areas requiring attention. One, travelling southbound between NC-306 and NC-101 the trail area has been logged just south of NC-306. There are hardly any visible blazes, and even worse there's a shallow ditch that looks like it could be a trail. A little scouting revealed a tiny little pine tree with a little metal tag wrapped around a pencil-sized branch, and this is just not adequate. The trail needs to be blazed in a more obvious fashion through the logged area. Second, also in this area, there's a long section, maybe a hundred yards or so, where the water is at least a foot deep with no way around it. This would be a great section for either boardwalks or a re-route. Thankfully I was prepared for it, so I had wetsuit booties and Teva sandals. If I had it to do over again I would have bought neoprene socks, because they fit into the sandals better. IMHO this is the best way to do this section, because the booties aren't that heavy and I carry the sandals anyway. This whole section is kind of marshy, so I would wear this combination for the entire thing. Of course in warmer weather you can just skip the booties/neoprene socks. The third problem was south of Mill Creek Rd. The trail emerges onto the forest service rd leading to the Oyster Point campground, and there are no blazes of any kind in sight. I guessed it was a left turn down the road, and after awhile I found metal tags again, but it wasn't obvious whether I needed to turn left on the road or cross into the forest somehow. In summary this was one of my favorite MST sections. The trail is very scenic, and in February there's not a lot of brush and all the dangerous reptiles are hibernating. I contacted someone from the Carteret Wildlife Club who recommended hiking the Neusiok Trail from February to June. It's hot and buggy in the summer, and the hunters are out in the Fall. For a more detailed report, see my trail journal at http://www.trailjournals.com/rmdixon, click on the 2005 MST link, and look for the 4-5 Feb entries and pictures. Bob Dixon

Submitted on 2-4-05 - US Forest Service Update Dear Friends of the Mountains to Sea Trail, My apologies for not being able to attend your 2005 Annual Meeting. We have a number of exciting projects involving the Mountains-to-Sea Trail occurring on the Grandfather Ranger District that I want to share with you. First of all, the North Fork Catawba River Footbridge in McDowell County. After numerous contractor and weather delays, we extended the completion date from January 14, 2005, to March 15, 2005, with hopes that it will be done much sooner than that. So far, the area has been cleared and excavation occurring for the piers and abutments. The actual pre-fabricated bridge is being stored in the community of Woodlawn. When the time gets close for the bridge to be flown in and installed, I will share this information with Allen, Jeff and Bob. Along these same lines, Allen and I have started discussing plans for a dedication of this bridge, as well as the trail from the bridge to Bald Knob. We will keep you informed of this, as well. The trails and roads traversing the Grandfather Ranger District were hit quite hard by the three hurricanes that passed through the area last September. Luckily, Congress passed a $47.2 million dollar supplemental to the Forest in order to repair the damages across the Nantahala, Pisgah, Uwharrie and Croatan National Forests. On the Grandfather Ranger District, we are bringing in individuals to assist us with trail repairs. We brought in 6 crews from out west to assist us with cutting out the trails in Linville Gorge Wilderness with crosscut saws. They completed this task in January. There are three crews now with chainsaws working to clear out the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. We are working with Caldwell and McDowell Counties and have hired four trail crews to do tread repairs. Their goal is 80 miles between now and June. We have also identified the need to relocate portions of the trails to include switchbacks, etc., for 18 trails. Our goal is to put the trails back in better condition than what they were prior to the storms. To check out the latest information concerning storm recovery efforts on all four forests, on the National Forests in NC website: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/. As always, I look forward to working with you in the upcoming year. Sincerely, Miera B. Crawford District Ranger

Submitted on 1-30-05 for the Neusiok/MST Trail - Croatan Forest The FMST along with the Carteret County Wildlife Club (CCWC) cleaned the Neusiok/MST from Alligator Tram Road to Billfinger Road on 1-29-05. This section is now clear of overgrowth. More work will be done as soon as time permits.

Submitted on 1-18-05 for the Neusiok Trail - Croatan Forest Whoosh! What a busy month it's been. Sorry for the delay. Here's my report - Neusiok Trail - Croatan Forest. I was using National Geographic maps that I printed out at Great Outdoor Provision. At a scale of 1:30,750, two maps covered the entire trail. Frankly, the on-line map was not really adequate to plan the trip. I'd thought about scanning the NG maps to give to you but they're marked copyright by NG so I guess I'd better not. By and large the trail was well marked and easy to follow. We both particularly liked the aluminum metal strips because they were so easily visible from a distance away. I've always found that the round white MST blaze, after being weathered for a while, is easily confused with white patches that appear naturally on trees. That's true in every section I've hiked. We started Saturday morning from Oyster Point and headed north to the Neuse River. The first time we got turned around a little was shortly thereafter when the trail came out on a gravel road. This road was not on the map. It was before you get to Mill Creek Road. We eventually figured out that the trail was supposed to turn right on the gravel road and then cut left back into the woods but we had to hunt a bit for the blazes. No big deal really, but an extra blaze or two in the right location would have saved us hunting around a bit. (If you looked at my pictures that I posted earlier it's where the car ran off the road.) This section of the trail often had low spots that were filled with ankle deep water. Fortunately, we were able to skirt these easily. There was also undergrowth that was about knee high but it was not tangled or difficult to walk through. We had a nice lunch at the first shelter. Further north, the only place that was moderately overgrown from the sides was in between Alligator Tram Road (124) and the next road north. It's not clear on my map - 365? It's just before the one long road walk section where you are skirting what's marked on the map as "Money Island Swamp". We stopped and made camp in the woods somewhere between Billfinger Rd. and NC 101 (We ran out of daylight and didn't reach the shelter before nightfall). There were plenty of nice areas to camp in this stretch. We checked out the shelter as we passed then next morning and then moved on. As I had been warned, the section immediately north of NC 101 was a bit of a mess. We were able to play lumberjack and get across feet dry. I assume that it's on someone's list to address but with all the downed trees in the area it looks like a really big job. The ongoing work on elevated walkways was obvious in this area so I'm sure it'll be gotten to in good time. The area SE of NC 306 had been torn up by some kind of logging activity and the blazes were mostly missing. We ended up walking down a shallow ditch that looked like it had been used to put in a buried utility line for the subdivisions up the road. We missed the turn back into the woods and ended up going straight out to NC 306 and so skipped a little bit of the trail. We turned north on NC 306 and picked the trail back up again. Here we made our only real mistake. The blazes were there to see, but after crossing NC 306 we assumed that it went on down the road behind the gate instead of cutting immediately into the woods on the right. We were walking and yakking and missed it by not paying attention. We lost about 30 min on that one but I don't know how it could have been blazed better - our fault. After than it was smooth sailing on finding the trail. We walked many boardwalks over bogs. There was one, however, that looked like it needed one badly and didn't have one. This was the only place we got our feet wet. I'm sure it's on someone's list for work. We stopped at the third and final shelter for lunch. This was the nicest one of the three. When we got to the Neuse River we decided to walk on the beach because the water was really low and we didn't have to crawl over all the downed trees. Therefore we didn't really follow the trail up on the bluff above the river. I can see where with all the trees lying crosswise across the beach would be a real pain with higher water. We finished up a Pine Cliff Sunday evening. It appeared to be open for business as usual. There were other people up there having picnics. That's it - we had a great time. -Arthur Kelley

Submitted on 1-17-05 for the Neusiok Trail - Croatan Forest I found the trail very well marked and easy to follow. There are some rough spots and parts near the Newport could use a good mowing or slingblading. I left at 7AM and my pants were soaked through in the first hour. The wet section near 306 I just had to barge through and get my feet wet, which I had come prepared for. The boardwalks are very fine, though, and the terrain was stunning. Oh, yes, there was a confusing bit that seemed to veer off the main trail and bisect a young pine plantation-very rough and sometimes hard to follow. That was on my second day, probably 2-3 miles in from 101 toward the Neuse. And the one long section on the sandy dirt road about 6-8 miles in from the Newport River was not well marked on the road. All in all it was a great trail experience. I needed a little time alone and didn't see a single hiker for the 20 miles or so. I'm writing a piece about my hike and I'll send you a copy if you'd like. It's going to be a regular part of my ramblings down east. Thanks, Gary Phillips

Submitted on 1-6-05 by Miera Crawford, Grandfather District Ranger, Pisgah Forest Location - North Fork of the Catawba River Happy New Year!! Catawba River Bridge Update: Things are progressing. The bridge is at Woodlawn and the contractor is coordinating with Carson, the helicopter folks, on the timing of the placement. A rock weir has been built in the river to place a buttress to support the bridge. The site is being cleared and prepared for the installation of the piers and abutments. The nice wheather we have been having lately has been beneficial for the contractor. MST Trail Update: We have 5 crosscut saw crews on the district now who are working to cut out and remove the trees on the trails located in Linville Gorge Wilderness. We are working with McDowell and Caldwell Counties for the establishment of five trail crews to do trail maintenance on our trails. Two crews are based in McDowell County and three in Burke and Caldwell (Wilson Creek area) counties. These crews are funded by Dept of Labor funds, so they have minimal experience. But we have them going to training and will get them on the trails next week. Our priority is getting the Mtn to Sea Trails open and maintenance complete. We have hired two individuals to coordinate the crews.....Steve Rudisill and Jim Blevins. We are having to coordinate our hurricane repair efforts through the Asheville office. This has been slow to start, but things are beginning to move rather quickly now. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me...either by email or call me at the office or my cell phone (828) 442-9768. I'll be in touch.

Submitted on 1-4-05 by Phil Piaski Just wanted to let you know that we took my new Stihl chainsaw up to the MST Trail near Marion this past weekend. (North Fork of the Catawba River to the top of Bald Knob - 4 miles) A friend, Kenyon, helped me Friday, then I went back to finish on Sunday, when Shrimplegs (Sam), Gadget Man and Spider Web helped me. It took two full days, but we got the Trail opened up again-from the FS road all the way up to the top of Bald Knob. It took SIX gas refills on the chainsaw.The Pine Beetle has really been active thru there, especially about the midway point, near the "bedrock". We were whipped, but proud, when done. I'm sure no one could have gotten thru there since the big flood. Now they can, but who knows for how long. Incidently, the occasional spring, about half way up, was running and was a welcomed site. Phil Piaski - FMST volunteer ps. I've heard, via the Yahoo Linville Gorge discussion group, that there were about 100 downed trees on the Trail, from the Linville River crossing up to the Shortoff trail. - NOTE - due to that fact that Linville Gorge is a Wilderness the FMST cannot use chainsaws in this area and we must use cross cut saws.

Submitted on 12-27-04 Central Blue Ridge Task Force update - The Steels Creek and Hunt Fish falls area of the MST are open and clear any storm/flood damage. Sent via e-mail from Bob Benner, Task Force Leader

Submitted on 12-8-04 Would you please give me an update on the current status and, if applicable, projected completion date, of the trail sections (a) eastward from Blowing Rock, (b) eastward from the North Fork of the Catawba, including the bridge, and (c) westward from Balsam Gap (south). Thanks, Jim Spencer Response to above e-mail: Jim: Here is what I have for you: A.) Blowing Rock - East - The MST is in the construction phase along this 55 miles to Doughton Park - NC-18. The area from NC-18 to NC-16 is under full construction during weekends work trips. The Section from NC-16 to NC-421 will undergo an archeological study during next year. The entire 55 miles has been approve by an environmental study. Completed date - 10 to 12 years depending on volunteer help. B.) NC-221 to Linville Gorge - Bridge construction will start in early January 2005. Some entrance roadwork is being done now by the contractor. The fall hurricanes set the contractor back quite a bit. The MST is walkable in this area but the pine beetle has done major damage to the pines causing major blow-downs along the trail to the top of Bald Knob. After the bridge is done the finishing touches will be done on the trail to the top of Bald Knob. From the top of Bald Knob it goes up to Dobson Knob and descends along a FS gravel road and connects with the Overmountain Victory trail to Kisler Road that enters the Linville Gorge Wilderness. Completion date - 1.5 to 2 years. C.) Balsam Gap - South - to GSMNP - The CMC is working hard in this area to Waterrock Knob/Soco Gap. The section from Soco gap to GSMNP route is up in the air along the BRP due to their environmental study and the Cherokee boundary. Competition date - 3 to 5 years. Hope that helps. Thanks, Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 11-21-04 The Allegheny Task Force completed blazing (white trail markers) the MST from NC-18 to Devils Garden Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Submitted on 11-10-04 The Falls Lake Trail/MST - 26 miles has been cleaned and minor projects have been completed.

Submitted on 11-10-04 The MST from Haywood Gap to Mt. Mitchell State Park has been cleared of storm damage by the CMC.

CMC Work: 10-13-04 Work Completed: Removed approximately 60 trees from Bull Gap to Rattlesnake Lodge, Rattlesnake Lodge North via short cut trail to MTS and back on MST to Rattlesnake Lodge and both trails leading up to Rattlesnake Lodge from Tanbark Tunnel

Submitted on 10-6-04 by Don Walton, CMC President Well in a week a lot has changed. The worst downed trees were right around Asheville with 40-50 per mile not unusual. We have cleared the MST from Hwy 191 to the Pisgah Inn. The Shut-in Foot Race will have clear sailing or running. The MST section from Ox Creek Road to Hwy 25A is clear. There remains two areas, Hwy 25A to Hwy 191 and from Ox Creek Road to above Rattlesnake Lodge. These two areas have a lot of downed trees. The rest of the MST is probably more lightly affected. This will still take a long time to clear. The AT was also lightly affected. We do not know about adjoining trails at this time. The most current information about trail issues is on the www.Carolinamtnclub.com web site under "Trail Issue Data". Also there is a daily web site for the Smoky Mountain National Park: http://nps.gov/grsm/gsmsite/roadinfo.html and a site for the National Park System that includes info about the Blue Ridge Parkway: http://data2.itc.nps.gov/morningreport/ . Don Walton

Submitted on 10-3-04 - Balsam Gap South to Haywood Gap - MST Just a quick note this morning. I just finished the section from Balsam Gap (south) to where the trail crosses the BRP at Haywood Gap (2.3 miles into section 5). First, the trail is well marked, especially the area where Chief had problems. There were a couple places where I was a little confused (at a couple FS road junctions) but I always found the correct way after a few minutes. Whoever marked and cleared the footpath deserves a hearty thanks for a great job. Second, pass the word that if anyone is considering hiking the mountain sections--DON'T! I averaged a MAJOR blowdown about every mile. MAJOR meaning it took 5-15 minutes to either scramble around, crawl under, or climb over and/or through; or any of the above combinations. I'm bruised, battered, and scratched from head to toe. I hiked from dawn to dusk for two days and only covered 11 and 13 miles respectively. Heed the warnings from the Forest Service. I logged all the major blowdowns using my GPS. I'll pass on the coordinates later today or tomorrow. Take care. Dave

Submitted on 9-30-04 - Grandfather Ranger District GRANDFATHER RANGER DISTRICT DAMAGE UPDATE The Grandfather Ranger District is one of three districts that make up the Pisgah National Forest. The district covers over 192,000 acres in McDowell, Avery, Burke, Caldwell and Watauga Counties. The Grandfather Ranger District saw no new significant damage after "Jeanne" moved through the area, but, there are a few more slides onto roads and the expansion of existing damages. Forest visitors are encouraged to travel with caution. The status of our recreation areas is as follows: McDowell County Curtis Creek Campground OPEN to dispersed site 12 Old Fort Picnic Area - OPEN (no water) Burke County Barkhouse Picnic Area - OPEN Wiseman's View Overlook - OPEN Table Rock Parking Area -- OPEN Brown Mountain OHV Area -- CLOSED Caldwell County Mortimer Campground/Picnic Area - OPEN (no water) Parking areas along Wilson Creek -- OPEN Boone Fork Campground - OPEN (no water) For Linville Gorge Wilderness: No camping permits will be issued until further notice. This means no overnight camping is allowed in the Gorge. Trail assessments are finding a large number of trees blown down and in some places where the trail is completely washed away. The public is NOT encouraged to use any of the trails in the Gorge. The National Park Service has issued a closure for Linville Falls. The Grandfather Ranger District has 131 roads covering 311 miles. Of this, 92 percent (120 roads) have received various levels of damage ranging from one foot gullies down the road and blown out culverts to landslides and slumps, where the road broke off and slide down the drainage. Many roads have been gated or barricades installed, until repairs can be made. Trail assessments are underway. We anticipate any trails along creeks are probably gone and due to the heavy winds, a large amount of trees blown down. It may be a year before many of these trails are open again. Once assessments are complete, more detailed information concerning trails will be shared. For more information, contact the Grandfather Ranger District, 828-652-2144. ###

Submitted on 9-28-04 - Blue Ridge Parkway Staff Friends of MST, From the message below you can see that a section of MSTat MP 345.3 near Crabtree Meadows, will likely be disconnected from construction of a by-pass road as a result of hurricane damage on the Parkway. I would suggest that you include this information on your Web pages. When the road work has been reconstructed we will likely need to reconstruct the trail work in this location. We do not yet know the timing of when this reconstruction work will take place. I will try to relay any other information I receive about MST as a result of hurricane damage! Respectfully; Larry Hultquist Blue Ridge Parkway Resident Landscape Architect (828) 271-4779 X 208

Submitted on 9-27-04 - Forest Service Update Here's the latest: Boone Fork Campground - Open (no water) Barkhouse Picnic Area - Open Old Fort Picnic Area - Open (no water) Mortimer Campground - Open (no water) Wiseman's View Overlook - Open Brown Mtn OHV area - Closed (Enduro planned for 9/25-26 cancelled and may be rescheduled later this year) For Linville Gorge Wilderness: No camping permits will be issued until further notice. This means no overnight camping is allowed in the Gorge. Trail assessments are finding a large number of trees blown down and in some places where the trail is completely washed away. The public is NOT encouraged to use any of the trails in the Gorge. The National Park Service has issued a closure for Linville Falls. The Grandfather Ranger District has 131 roads covering 311 miles. Of this, 92 percent (120 roads) have received various levels of damage ranging from one foot gullies down the road and blown out culverts to landslides and slumps, where the road broke off and slide down the drainage. Many roads have been gated or barricades installed, until repairs can be made. Trail assesssements are underway. We anticipate any trails along creeks are probably gone and due to the heavy winds, a large amount of trees blown down. It may be a year before many of these trails are open again. Once assessments are complete, more detailed information concerning trails will be shared. I have heard that portions of the MST along Steels Creek is gone. I have submitted a request for emergency funds to repair the trails. I'll keep you informed as this develops. I haven't heard any updates on the Catawba Footbridge. Luckily, construction hadn't started. Once the river goes down, I anticipate the contractor will start working again. We are posting damage information on the NF in NC website: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/ Submitted by Miera Crawford, Grandfather District Ranger

Submitted on 9-16-04 - URGENT - US Forest Service - 9-16-04- Weather Update - The US Forest Service has issued this press release due to the recent storms in the mountains. Check out this PDF file for more information. We are posting damage information on the NF in NC website: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/

Submitted on 9-16-04 The BRP district facility manager at Bluff Maintenance Center near NC-l8 recommended today (Sep.l6) that volunteers not work on the MST between NC-l8 and Sheets Overlook until all storm winds and rains are over. As a result all plans for volunteer work on the dates of September l7, l8, and l9 are cancelled. Instead, the dates of September 24,25, and 26 have been scheduled. Erik Kreusch, archaeologist, has changed his plans to not report for archaeological inspection on September 20, but will begin on September 2l. He has requested volunteer assistance for Wednesday, September 22, Thursday, September 23, and Friday, September 24. Volunteers report to him at 8:30 a.m. on any of these three dates and look for his vehicle between Sheets cemetery access road (milepost 253.2), south to Northwest Trading Post (milepost 258.6) Other news is the USDA Forest Service has closed all recreation areas (including trails) across Pisgah and Nantahala national forests beginning late September l6 until Hurricane Ivan has passed and storm damage can be assessed. Additionally, a number of sections of the BRP are closed until further notice. Allen de Hart, FMST Project Director.

Submitted on 9-15-04 The five-county area covered by the Grandfather Ranger District was hit quite hard by rainfalls from Frances. EVERY road has some sort of damage with over 20 percent having significant damage (landslides, blowouts, etc.). We have not had a chance to check our trails yet, and now IVAN is looming in the shadows. At this point in time, we are not encouraging any use of our trails until we can conduct a damage assessment. I know the BRP was hit quite hard, as well. (The soils from the major slide on the Parkway....in now 1 1/2 mile down slope in Curtis Creek.) So, before heading out, you may want to check to see if the trail or access road is even open. We are posting damage information on the NF in NC website: http://www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc/ If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call. Miera Crawford, Grandfather District Ranger - 828-652-2144

Submitted on 8-30-04 The MST has been cleaned of overgrowth in the following areas: From Devils Garden Overlook on the BRP to the edge of Stone Mt. State Park property. Sections 6 and 10 of the Falls Lake trail have been cleaned of overgrowth.

Submitted on 8-16-04 Hello Friends! I wanted to give a trail report on a couple of MST hikes I've done lately. The first one was almost 2 weeks ago up on Mt Mitchell. We hiked in from the MST parking area on 128, less than a mile from the Parkway. The Trail crosses the road here, and connects up with the Buncombe Horse Ridge Trail that runs for many miles along the shoulder of Mt Mitchell. Our hike was over to Commissary Ridge. This is a Beautiful area this time of year. Everything was blooming, the springs were running off the side of the mountain making the trail a virtual stamp thru the creek in places. I was surprised how overgrown and under-used the trail is in there. There was water for drinking from springs everywhere. And somebody had turned the airconditionig on up there-at 5700ft! The second trip was this past weekend. We hiked from 181 west to and down Steele Creek a ways, just before it leaves the creek and heads up the mountain toward Table Rock. This was a beautiful trail, well marked and well maintained-and very remote! Lots of "fern walking", which I really like! We found one of the most stunning waterfalls I've seen in this whole area,although it was kind of tricky getting down the rock face where you could get a good view of it. There's some nice big campsites along the creek, too. Phil Piaski Claremont, N.C.

Submitted on 8-10-04 We have had the following reports called in to us: There is major trail overgrowth along the MST at the following sections: 1.) Balsam Gap South (NC-23/74) to Bear Pen Gap along the Blue Ridge Parkway 8-30-04 - UPDATE - The CMC sent a work crew in this area and cut back the overgrowth. New fresh blazes and new signs will be installed as an Eagle Scout project in the near future. 2.) Neusiok Trail, Croatan Forest - Billfinger Road to Mill Creek

Submitted on 6-9-04 The Central Blue Ridge Task Force - Bob Benner reports: We have rerouted the trail on the west side of the Linville River to where it crosses at a much safer location . As the trail comes off the last mountain above the river it cuts s.e. following old existing roads and trails to the river. After crossing the river it goes north to the point where it originally left the river. The white MST blazes are up in this area for you to follow.

Submitted on 6-7-04 Neusiok Trail - A new trail shelter has been installed along the Neusiok Trail - about 1 mile north of the Mill Creek Road. This is the thrid shelter along the 21 mile Neusiok trail. A group of Boy Scouts have re-routed the trail along the Neuse River where it was washed out by Hurricane Isabel.

Submitted on 6-6-04 The Falls Lake Task Forces have cleaned the entire 26 miles at the Falls Lake Trail from HW-50 to the Falls Lake Dam.

Submitted on 5-2-04 Bobby Sylvestor and I went up to Bald Knob, Marion, NC on an overnighter this week and finished punching a hole thru the fallen pines to the top. We only had loppers as my chain saw was in the shop, so there is still some chainsawing to be done. But, due to our efforts- 4 hrs each the first day and 6 hours each the second day- the first thruhiker of the season can make it through there as of now. Phil PS. Both the spring near the FS road AND the occasional spring before the view were running.

Submitted on 4-21-04 Balsam Gap South to Soco Gap on the Blue Ridge Parkway The Carolina Mountain Club Up-date: We have build section #1 (Balsam Gap South) from the maintenance Station to the BRP entrance ramp and marked entrances and white dot along the trail in the woods. The area between the Ramp entrance and the Old Orchard O\L the trail follows the Parkway Road and has been blazed. Section two and three follow the dirt road ( Hood Rd.) for about 3-4 miles and has been partially blazed. The road is a public road in the Nat. Forest. Section # 4 starts at a sharp turn off Hood Rd. and is under construction to Cascade O\|L and is not blazed. Sections 5-6-7-8 have not been approved nor flagged. Have a great hike. Piet, CMC

Submitted on 4-5-04 Falls Lake, Raleigh, North Carolina Section 4 - From HW-98 to Barton Boat Ramp (Six Forks Road) about 100 yards of trail was relocated on 4-3-04 and fresh blazes are up.

Submitted on 3-30-04 Marion, North Carolina From the North Fork of the Catawba River to the top of Bald Knob - most of the trees were removed from the trail corridor. The pine beetle is making this work area very difficult due to the dead pines falling down in the area. Thanks to Phil Piaski and his work crew.

Submitted on 3-15-04 On March 13, 2004 the Carteret Wildlife Club, US Forest Service, and the Outdoor Adventure Club installed new boardwalks along the Neusiok/MST from NC-306 to NC-101. The FMST installed trail signs and white blazes along the trail road intersections. On March 14, 2004 the FMST cut back overgrowth and painted white MST blazes along the Neusiok/MST from NC-101 to Billfinger Road (USFS road). The USFS has removed a majority of the trash from Oyster Point (Mill Creek area) and established a low impact campground.

Submitted on 3-11-04 The Falls Lake Task Forces have cleaned the entire 26 miles at the Falls Lake Trail from HW-50 to the Falls Lake Dam.

Submitted on 3-11-04 Bob Benner and the Central Blue Ridge Task Force has: Painted white MST blazes on the Woods Mt. Trail from the Blue Ridge Parkway to US-221. This section was also cleaned of trail debris. Painted white MST blazes from the parking lot at Gragg Prong as the MST ascends on Forest Road 981 for 3.4 miles.

Submitted on 12-22-03 Bob Benner and the Central Blue Ridge Task Force hosted another workday to clean up the Woods Mountain trail on 12-20-03. See also note below.

Submitted on 11-23-03 Bob Benner and the Central Blue Ridge Task Force has reported that new blazes have been installed on the first 3.0 miles of the Wood Mountain Trail after leaving the Blue Ridge Parkway. Additional work such as cleaning the trail corridor of overgrowth will be done as soon as well. Fresh MST blazes have also been painted on Forest Road 981 from the Gragg Prong parking lot heading towards Beacon Heights for 3.5 miles along this Forest Road. Submitted by Bob Benner

Submitted on 10-12-03 Neusiok Trail - Croatan National Forest - 22 miles. The first mile of the Neusiok trail from the Picnic Shelter along the beach is hard to find due to Hurricane Isabel damage. This section of the MST is marked with aluminum strips and white MST blazes. After the wet summer and Hurricane Isabel expect to get wet feet along this section. As always be prepared for the bugs and watch for the snakes. This section was cut back of overgrowth on 10-7-03 and 10-8-03. Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 10-5-03 Wayne County - Bike Route #7 - After leaving Eureka, NC , the Church Street Road (SR-1520) has also been named Faro Road. Wayne County - Bike Route #7 - After leaving Faro, NC the bike route takes a left onto Bull Head Plantation Road (SR-1201) which has been renamed to Fort Run Road. Wayne County - Bike Route #7 - After leaving Shine, NC the bike route travels south onto Shine Road (1210) which have been renamed to Free Gospel and after 1.5 miles it turns into Rag Road after the intersection. Bike route signs are present in this area to assist you. Lenior County - Bike Route #7 - Once reaching the community of Sandy Bottom, NC the bike route take a right turn onto Green Hayes Road (SR-1161), presently the Bike Route #7 sign is missing. Lenior County - Bike Route #7 - After passing Loftins Crossings at HW-58 the bike route takes a right onto Cobb Road for 0.2 mile and then takes a left onto Silo Road (SR-1915), presently the Bike Route #7 sign is missing. Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 10-4-03 Franklin County - Bike Route #2 - Brantleytown Road (SR-1720) is also called Old Halifax Road. Wilson County - Bike Route #7 - At the start of Bike Route #7 Lamm Road (SR-1326) is also called Old Bailey Road. Wilson County - Bike Route #7 - After traveling on Downing Road (SR- 1163) the bike route take a right hand turn at Shirley Road (SR-1164), there is not a Bike Route #7 sign here due to the fact that new HW-264 is so close and it has not been replaced yet. Wilson County - Bike Route #7 - Healthy Plains Road (SR-1129) is now Boswellville Road (SR-1175) Wilson County - Bike Route #7 - After leaving Black Creek, NC the bike route takes a right hand turn on to Frank Price Church Road (SR-1613), there is not a Bike Route #7 sigh here to tell you to turn. Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 9-28-03 Guilford County - From HW-29 - to get to Eckerson Road you will need to go down Reedy Fork from HW-29 and turn right. Huffine Mill Road - After passing High Rock Road, the NC-DOT has placed signs indicating "Road Closed". The bridge has been blocked off and will be replaced by the NC-DOT. Hikers and bikers can still use this road as the MST. Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 9-28-03 Orange County - Pentecost Road - This road is now paved. After about 1.3 miles along Pentecost Road you will come to an intersection with a gravel road on the right. The road sign here has been rotated 90 degrees (vandalism), thus showing Pentecost Road as a right hand turn on to a gravel road - THIS IS NOT CORRECT! Continue straight on the paved road which is Pentecost Road; we will get the sign correct since vandalism has taken place. Action Taken: Submitted on 10-5-03 The sign has been corrected but please be aware of the situation if it continues to be vandalized. Thanks to Greg White, Elfland, for correcting this issue. Orange County - Cedar Grove Road (SR-1004) and Hughes Road (SR-1252) have been changed to Carr Store Road. Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 9-28-03 Greensboro - The Peninsula Trail (1.2 miles) on Church Street is closed due to major tree damage. We will let you know when it is back open. UPDATE - Trail is back open! Submitted by Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 9-28-03 All of the Bluff Mountain Trail in Doughton Park has been maintained. This is a great hike during peak leaf season. Submitted by: Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 7-14-03 Some parts of the Bluff Mountain Trail in Doughton Park are in need of trail maintenance and will be address very soon. Submitted by: Jeff Brewer

Submitted on 7-13-03 Section 13 on the Sauratown Trail is back open! Submitted by: Wayne Horton - Hiking Representative - Sauratown Trails Association whorton@triad.rr.com 336-765-7872

Submitted on 6-10-03 SAURATOWN TRAIL-SECTION 13- TEMPORARY CLOSING Section 13 of the ST (see description under the MST suggested Day Hikes- Piedmont Sections - Sauratown Trail) is temporarily closed due to logging. We hope to have it re-opened soon, but for the time being The alternate route is described as follows: At the end of section 12, continue S W along Coon Road for about 1.15 Miles and turn right on Bradley road for about 700' and turn right into Section 14 of the ST. This detour will shorten the distance by about 1.60 miles. Also, the Corridor Trail from the western terminus of the ST to the Yadkin River section of Pilot Mountain S. P. is closed for an indefinite period due to storm damage. Check their website at pilot.mountain@ncmail.net for updates. Over 32 miles of trail are unaffected, so there are many attractive alternatives, especially on the eastern sections, which are in good shape despite the relentless rain we've had this spring. Submitted by: Wayne Horton - Hiking Representative - Sauratown Trails Association whorton@triad.rr.com 336-765-7872

Submitted on 3-9-03 REROUTING NOTICE - Sauratown Trail The existing connector trail from the Sauratown Trail center to the main part of the Sauratown Trail is being rerouted, and should be open sometime around the middle of March, 2003. New directions are as follows: leave the trail center parking area and follow trail West to a point where it joins the shoulder of Rock House Road at Mile 0.25; follow shoulder downhill to a point about 200' West of a culvert at Mile 0.50; leave road and follow trail, which runs to the West of, and parallel with a medium sized creek, going past two cave-like ledges and a waterslide, to South Double Creek at Mile 0.80; cross the creek and follow trail upstream, on the north side of the creek, to a point at about Mile 1.20; leave creek and follow trail on a steady moderate climb, first running to the East of a ravine, then to the West of a large hollow to a point at Mile 2.20, where the new connector trail joins the main trail. The distance from the trail center to all points West will remain essentially the same, while points to the East will increase by about 3.05 Miles. The main trail will remain unchanged. We hope to have a revised trail map posted at all parking areas soon. Submitted by: Wayne Horton - Sauratown Trails - Hiking Task Force Leader

Submitted on 12-12-02 We (the Blue Ridge Parkway) have established trail head parking for the Mountains to Sea Trail in our visitor parking area at the Blue Ridge ParkwayHeadquarters in Asheville, some time ago. We noticed that MST visitors have not been taking advantage of this trail head parking opportunity as much as we thought they would. Trail visitors continue to park along the Parkway in the Asheville area just down the road from this Parking area. One reason for this we recently learned, is that visitors are not certain when the front gate to the headquarters is closed. They fear being locked in after 5:00 PM. Could you send out a notice in your newsletter, or website, or by any other means you feel might be effective, that the frontgate to the MST trail head parking, at the Blue Ridge Parkway Headquartersis never closed until 9:00 to 10:00 PM. Only the gate to the employeeparking area is closed sooner than that, but this does not close thevisitor parking area. I believe this would increase use of the parkingfacility and thus improve vehicle security for trail users. Our otheralternative is to post a closure notice on the gate but I would like to avoid this as a very last resort for security reasons. I also feel that it would not be as effective as a notice to your constituents. Thanks, Larry Hultquist Blue Ridge Parkway Resident Landscape Architect
Submitted on 11-11-02 I want to second Phil Piaski's comments about the section up Shortoff Mountain from the Linville River. Right after you cross the river it is not clear where to go. It is confusing because of the private property markers, and whoever owns that property has several trails/primitive roadsof their own. I wasn't as lucky as Phil and ended up just scrambling straight up the side of the gorge hoping to find the trail again at the top of the ridge. I found it up there, but it's almost impassable. Heading up to the top of Shortoff mountain is extremely slow going becauseof all the downed trees. I don't think I'd be exaggerating to say there'sone down across the trail about every 10 feet. Heading back down to theriver, I lost the trail again pretty soon and had to map/compass my wayout. The section on the W. rim of the gorge is much better maintained but it is lacking blazes at a lot of crucial intersections... there are a mess of horse trails and old logging roads that intersect the trail in the area, and I took a lot of wrong turns. -Evan Beach, Carrboro, NC Action Taken: Submitted on 11-25-02 We worked on trail on east side of Linville R. on 11/ 23. After crossing the river one must go directly away from river to the right of property signs and the will pick up the trail. It needs to be re-blazed but is wide open to the top of the ridge where it turns left to go north up to Short Off. As previously reported the trail is almost impassable up to the top because of downed pines as is the trail from Wolf Pit road up to the top. Evidently there are many pines down in the Chimney Gap area between Short Off and Table Rock. Much of this has occured in the last month as we cleared the trail through here only last month. Bob Benner - Central Blue Ridge Task Force Leader

Submitted on 11-1-02 The section from Black Mountain Campground and the Woods Mountain Trail needs to be re-blazed. It was not clear at the trail intersections. Oh, I forgot to mention another section that needs alot of work. It's the section that goes up Short-Off from the Linville River. Lots of dead pines from the beetles in there. There's a place right after one crosses the river that is not marked well at all, and I was lost there for a time. Then I found where the trail goes right back along the river. The rest of the sections looked pretty good-especially along the parkway. Phil Piaski of Newton, NC Action Taken: Submitted on 11-20-02 On November 8, 2002 sections of the MST from Black Mountain Camp Ground to the Woods Mountain Trail was re-blazed to help hikers find their way. Plans are to do more re-blazing when time permits. Allen de Hart - FMST Project Director