Thank you for your interest in Smash Slate Mountain, but registration is full!
Please follow us @lat3six to see our next event.
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Click for pictures from the 2020 Hike
About the Trail
A trail up Slate Mountain is known as the Bear Creek Trail (BCT). The BCT is not technically difficult - there is a well defined and easy to follow trail. However, the BCT is an average of 15 degrees the entire route.
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Altitude will start near 5300 ft and end at over 8200 ft in less than 5 miles.
There will be 2-3 checkpoints along the BCT. The trail is 9.7 miles roundtrip and should take about 6 hours to complete (4 hours up, 2 down).
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The BCT will take you through the Belknap Camp Giant Sequoia Grove (AMAZING). You will also get to see the eastern Sierras and if you make it to the top, a great view of the Central Valley.
Getting to the BCT
The BCT starts near the Coy Flat Campground near Camp Nelson. Those who sign up will be provided additional directions for the event by email.
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Camp Nelson is 45 minutes east of Porterville, along Highway 190. (Please note not Hwy 198). Camp Nelson is located in the Sequoia National Forest - there is no admission fee to enter the forest area.
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There are some rental cabins in the Camp Nelson area. There are also camping spots located the Nelson Falls RV Park. Because it is Labor Day Weekend, early reservations are recommended.
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About the Challenge
Latitude 36 is organizing this event at no cost.
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Start time is approximately 7:00 am. Average return to the trail head will be 1:15 pm.
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In addition, finishers will receive a Lat 36 medal - believe us, you will deserve something for completing this challenge.
You must social distance with people outside your household, and because you are outside, masks are not required.
Needed Gear
If you have little experience hiking, you will need:
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Comfortable clothing
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Hiking shoes (or at least athletic shoes)
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Backpack w/water reservoir (no water source along the trail)
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Snack/fuel
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Bug spray/sunscreen
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Our friends at FYE Sports in Exeter have generously offered a 10% discount on gear for our event. Just order online or in store and use the code "Latitude36".
Be sure to connect with them @fyesportsofficial on Instagram or www.fyesportsshop.com/
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