Join us on this exclusive historic driving tour of the west side of the Burnett Reservoir to explore part of the once thriving North Fork Valley community. The caravan will stop for participants to view the impressive chimney that was once part of a large boarding house where travelers on their way to Mt. Mitchell would stay before they began the ascent to the highest peak in eastern North America. The tour will also stop at the former entrance to Governor Zebulon Vance’s estate, Gombroon, as well as the Gombroon wall. Following that, we will pass the Left Hand Fork Intake and head to the Dan Burnett Place. The tour will end with the ruins of Gombroon – to include the foundation, heart-shaped pool, the spring house, and the McGinnis Cabin.

Difficulty: Moderate; There will be some walking on rough terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.

Pack: Please bring your lunch, snacks, and a drink. This is primarily a driving tour, but you may also want to bring a full water bottle, a hat, hiking poles, rain gear, and any personal medications you may need in a small day pack. You may bring a camera to take photographs for personal (non-commercial) use. *No dogs or other pets are allowed on the tour.* 

TO REGISTER: E-mail svmvolunteer@gmail.com

Attendees may register per vehicle or per individual. Attendees bringing a vehicle may bring as many people in their vehicle as they wish. Vehicles must get clearance from our trip leader prior to registering as a driver. Please read the vehicle requirements below. We have a limited number of individual spots for individuals who can ride in truck beds and cabs with hike leaders. To register, whether as an individual or with a vehicle, email svmvolunteer@gmail.com. A registration link will be shared after approval.

Cost and Registration:

  • Non-Member Vehicles: $175
  • Member Vehicles: $130
  • Individual Adult: $75
  • Individual Adult Member: $50

Vehicles must meet the following criteria-

  • 4×4 
  • Transmission with extra low gears
  • Proper ground clearance. 

COVID Policy (reposted from 2021- new policy will be posted in months leading up to the event) 

All attendees, volunteers and hike leaders are required to bring masks and social distancing must be observed.

The sign-in for the event will be conducted outdoors, at the parking lot of the Black Mountain Savings Bank.

Please direct any inquiries to svmvolunteer@gmail.com.

 

Coronavirus Protocol:

  • Please bring a mask to the event to use in the event of carpooling.
  • No one who is sick, running a fever or potentially exposed to COVID should attend
  • Social distancing is recommended.