I know its a little bit early to talk about Trail Days and Hardcore for 2009, but the Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club (TEHCC) just conducted their AT committee meeting to strategize the maintenace projects for the 2009 Hardcore event. At the moment, the TEHCC is planning to conduct Hardcore on May 17-18, at the end of Damascus Trail Days.
This year's project will be:
May 17th - To head from Damascus to Wilbur Dam Road, aka Watauga Dam Road (correction noticed by Cabin Fever..lol), to relocate some of the steep & eroded trail to a better graded hillside trail and to switch back to the top of the Iron Mtn ridgeline. This is going to be the fun day since this section of trail lies inside the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness, so we will be doing all digging and cutting by hand.
May 18th - Will more than likely be relocating trail on Grassy Ridge in the Roan Highlands on sections around Stan Murray.
If you haven't heard or worked Hardcore, it is a great opportunity to give back to the trail, and give thanks to the maintainers.
As always, Hardcore sign-ups will be conducted at the ATC tent at the Damascus Town Park through out TrailDays. Lodging will be provided at Kincora Hostel and other neighboring hostels. Hikers are to bring enough food and water for breakfast and lunch. Dinner will be provided at the end of each work day. Transportation back to Damascus or other trailheads will be provided by club members, friends, and Hardcore alumni.
Just remember that space is limited, so signup early.
See you there.