I don't hike many trails twice, but I LOVE Sunrise Mountain at Stokes! Varied terrain, from meandering by a mountain stream to steep climbs and finally, a rocky ascent on the AT to a CCC pavilion at the summit of Sunrise Mountain. Plus, the lean-tos are fully enclosed shelters with woodstoves! Dee-LUXE!!!

Hikes:
Two day hikes. Saturday we'll do a longer, more difficult loop to the top of Sunrise Mountain, with portions on the Appalachian, Cartwright & Swenson trails; 8-10 miles. Sunday hike will depend on the group, thinking either an out-and-back in the Tillman's Ravine or near the ranger station. Trail info still to be confirmed.

Lodging:
We have lean-to for Friday & Saturday night; these are fully enclosed shelters with a woodstove for heat and a fire ring outside. No electricity or water, but restroom facilities are nearby, showers a few miles away (driveable). You can bring a cot or an air mattress, also stoves or pots for cooking. Bring your own food; I have some fire pit cooking stuff that I don't mind sharing, and I'd be interested in heading up a group dinner on Saturday night...:)

I've only booked two lean-tos for a max of twelve people, but you can reserve a tent camping site or a private lean-to on your own if you want.

Gear:

• Sleeping bag/pillow
  
• Hiking boots (the trails are pretty rocky in this neighborhood, and there may be snow)
  
• Warm clothes & socks (layers)
  
• Hiking Sticks
  
• Day pack (coordinate to share!)
  
• Water bottle/filter (Water is hard to come by in the Sunrise Mountain area; may want to bring a backup)
  
• Breakfast, snacks and lunch for two days; high energy snacks for the trail
  
• Dinner for one night (coordinate sharing)
  
• Pots, pans for cooking and camp stove (coordinate sharing)
  
• Flashlight
  
• Compass, whistle & two-way radio (if you have them) (backup batteries for the two-ways)
  
• Basic first aid type stuff
  
• Camera
  
• Anyone have a GPS? (more for fun--geocaching, anyone?)
  
• Two lanterns, one for each lean-to, will make things easier at night.
  
• A portable table for each lean to may also make things easier
  

Links:
Stokes State Forest website
Stokes Trail Map
The Carpool Spreadsheet. Drivers add your info. Passengers, check with a driver before adding yourself to a car!