Upcoming Hike on Thursday, July 23:
Lake Powhatan in Bent Creek

On July 23, Holy Hikers will explore the Bent Creek Recreation Area. This is an easy 2-mile out-and-back hike with little elevation gain. There is an option to extend the hike with an additional 1-mile loop trail around Lake Powhatan. The trails are suitable for families with young children or anyone who prefers to avoid more challenging trails. 

We will walk the Hard Times Trail for approximately 0.6 mile to the Lake Powhatan dam, then continue on around the lake to the beach, which is another ½ mile or so. At that point some participants may wish to hike the 1-mile loop around the lake. Other participants may choose to relax on the beach and swim. As always, we will find a quiet spot for noonday prayer and lunch.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Bent Creek basin are from the Archaic period 8,000 years ago. The Cherokee are thought to have occupied two large campsites near the creek starting about 500 BC. Around 1795, when European settlers began moving into the area, the creek was named for a horseshoe-shaped bend near the French Broad River. 

The Hard Times Trailhead is is located at 375 Wesley Branch Rd, Asheville, NC 28806. This is 24 miles from from St. John in the Wilderness with an approximate drive time of 40 minutes. In order to avoid the heat and take advantage of early morning parking availability, the hike will begin at 8:00am. Carpooling is highly recommended as parking fills very quickly this time of year. Carpoolers should plan to meet at St. John at 7:15am. If you wish to drive directly to Bent Creek, plan to be at the Hard Times Trailhead parking area no later than 8:00am. Restroom facilities are located at this trailhead. As always, remember to bring your snacks, lunch and plenty of water. You may also wish to bring swim gear if you choose to swim at the beach instead of hiking the optional 1 mile loop. Dogs are allowed but must remain on leash. 

Register Here:  https://www.stjohnflatrock.org/upcoming-hike