Who's ready for fall? Get outside with Haywood County Rec
Sep. 1—Ah, the crisp days of early fall. As the cooler temps move into the mountains, Haywood County Recreation is offering a line-up of outings and experiences. Hiking, birding, fly fishing, mountain biking and navigating are all on tap for the month of September.
Navigation
Learn how to navigate in the woods with a traditional map and compass, as well as modern-day technology. Gain confidence on "staying found" in the outdoors, and what to do if you get turned around. Taught by search-and-rescue instructor Steve Kuni at Allens Creek Park.
Birding
Birding expert Howard Browers will lead a guided birding expedition around Lake Junaluska on Sept. 14.
Fly Fishing
Learn to fly fish or hone your skills with a combined beginner/intermediate fly-fishing course from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on two consecutive Fridays, Sept. 15 and 22, along Richland Creek at the Waynesville Rec Park. Led by expert fly fisher Tommy Thomas. Fishing license is not required, and loaner rods are available.
Mountain biking
Ride Chestnut Mountain trails with an experienced mountain bike instructor on Sept. 16. Riders will tackle beginner and intermediate trails to practice climbing and descending over technical features with control, confidence and style. Ages 11 and up. Loaner bikes and helmets available.
Yoga
—Sept 9: A yoga hike from Old Butt Knob Overlook on the Parkway to a bald in the Middle Prong Wilderness for some gentle yoga.
—Sept. 12: Sunset Yoga at Waterrock Knob on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Bring your own mat/towel.
Hiking
—Sept. 6: A 6-mile hike to Wayah Bald Fire Towers from the Wilson Lick Ranger Station, the first ranger station in the Nantahala National Forest dating to 1913.
—Sept. 13: A 6-mile hike from Black Balsam to Tennet Mountain in the Shining Rock Wilderness off the Parkway. With an elevation 6,040 feet, Tennet Mountain offers panoramic views.
—Sept. 16: A 5-mile hike on Flat Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park off the Parkway between Maggie and Cherokee. Easy to moderate with several easy stream crossings.
—Sept. 23: A 7-mile hike to "The Pinnacle," a peak with panoramic views above Sylva. Challenging, with elevation gain of 2,240 feet.
—Sept. 30: An easy 5-mile loop trail in the Pink Beds at the Cradle of Forestry.
