Hiking enthusiasts are invited to join the Pacolet Area Conservancys (PAC) land protection specialist Pam Torlina this Friday, October 1, for a six-mile hike at The Nature Conservancys Blue Wall Preserve for the second hike of PACs Fall Hiking Series.

Torlina, a biologist, will lead the hike from the trailhead west of Lake Lanier to Vaughns Gap.&bsp; The six-mile hike is three miles out and three miles back. The hike starts out as a moderate hike. Beginning at 1,100 feet in elevation, the first mile gradually ascends approximately 200 feet in elevation. Then the trail begins to get more strenuous. Over the remaining two miles, hikers will ascend approximately 1,290 feet to Vaughns Gap, and then return the same way (only downhill!).

The Blue Wall Preserve protects part of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and offers hikers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is surrounded by old forests and leads hikers by two secluded ponds and a waterfall. There is always the opportunity to spot wildlife at the preserve, especially migrating songbirds this time of year.

If you are interested in attending this hike at the Blue Wall Preserve, contact the PAC office to sign up. You may contact PAC by phone at 828-859-5060 or e-mail Torlina at landprotection@pacolet.org.

Hikers should wear appropriate clothing and footwear; bring a bag lunch and/or snack and plenty of water. Hikers will be required to sign a release form, and you must bring any personal medication that you may require.&bsp; In case of inclement weather, contact the PAC office by 8:15 a.m. on the day of the hike.

Hikers will meet at 8:30 a.m. in the Tryon Family Dollar store parking area, near the NC/SC state line, across from the entrance to Lake Lanier. Continue to look for upcoming information on PACs fall hiking series on PACs website: www.pacolet.org or on PACs Facebook page. The next PAC hike will take place October 15 at Chestnut Ridge Heritage Preserve.