Max Patch is a popular hiking spot is Western North Carolina and is also considered an Appalachian Trail landmark.
The hiking trail located in Madison County has a moderate hike through the woods and has stunning 360-degree mountain views at the peak of the hike at 4,269 feet. But something the spot doesn’t have are bathrooms. The closest facilities are at Harmon Den Horse Camp, about a 20‑minute drive away.
Carolina Mountain Club is hoping to change that.
According to a Nov. 2 news release, the Club is launching its most ambitious fundraiser yet to support critical infrastructure improvements and add restrooms at Max Patch. The fundraising drive kicks off with a Max Patch Potty Party from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Brewhouse at New Belgium Brewing in Asheville, the release said.
Carolina Mountain Club said in the release that Max Patch has an estimated 50,000 to 100,000 hikers annually. The hiking spot has experienced a massive surge in visitation that has severely strained its current infrastructure. The Club is hoping to raise enough funds to not only build bathrooms but also add a paved parking lot for 27 vehicles.
The Club is expecting the cost to be more than $1 million, funded by grants and donations.
While the Club and partners have made progress on Max Patch itself, severe parking congestion — with cars sometimes lined up a mile down the road — and an absence of restroom facilities are still issues, the Club said.
The Max Patch campaign is the largest such undertaking in the Carolina Mountain Club’s 103-year history, the release said. Everyone who loves Max Patch and the Appalachian Trail can help make it a success.
The Max Patch Potty Party will feature live music by Daniel Shearin of River Whyless and a performance of A.T.: The Musical by Appalachian Trail hiker Skip Fredericksen. Guests can also participate in a silent auction and hear updates on the ongoing work at Max Patch.
Tickets for the Potty Party can be purchased at this link.