Dave, take a close look at Logan's photos from the ascent and descent of Black Mtn. Those step downs, gullies and washouts and probably even in worse shape now after the torrential downpours we've had in southeast over the past month. I did a similar route last summer and the climb up Clawhammer and down Black were fairly treacherous. It was an adventure, but I'm not sure I'd want to do it again. It was a lot more pushing (carrying) and white knuckle descending than I prefer on a loaded bike. I only mention this because you said you were going to try and talk your fiancee into it. Logan's photos are good indicators of the terrain. I remember that one rock stair step in particular on the Clawhammer ascent. It definitely would've been easier with someone spotting me, instead of solo on a weekday. Either way, have fun. It's a cool area. - Chris
I'll definitely agree with the treacherousness factor that Chunt mentioned. Most of Pisgah is pretty burly! The Bent Creek area is the lease burly, but there may not be as many bikepacking opportunities there...
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