Reports from the Field

First,.. the hike leader wants it understood that his having arranged for such a fabulous day (sunshine, temperature, blue sky, etc.) outweighs any criticism of the number of times he was off-trail.
Since New Year’s Day fell on a Sunday this year, the traditional New Year’s Day hike in Prentice Cooper occurred a day early. - - 23 people took advantage of one of 3 options: 9 people hiked 3.7 miles. 2 hiked the 6.5-mile option. 12 people completed the 10.2-mile option (even though one GPS unit claimed it was 11.45 miles).
Leaving some vehicles at the Cumberland Trail parking area, those doing the short and long options rode to the Snoopers’ Rock parking area on Tower Drive and began with a visit to the always impressive Snoopers’ Rock Overlook. From there we hiked the pretty trail to the Indian Rock House and back to the Cumberland Trail parking area. After a break, 14 of us hiked the enjoyable Mullin’s Cove Loop Trail (with a lot of diversity: up/down, rocks/boulders, creekside, etc.) back to the Snoopers’ Rock parking area. - - At one point, an unexpected delay occurred when Pete’s trekking pole became (what appeared might be permanently) lodged among rocks on a hillside. It took several minutes and several people moving rocks before the pole was finally extricated.
Those enjoying this day and hike (although there were a number of knees that had a different opinion) were Joyce Campbell, Wayne Chambers, Tim Chomyn, Pete Connolly, Doug Cooper, Kendra Cross, Karen Dale, Boodie Fox, Patti Giles, Janet Hale, Debbie Howard, Bill Kinnaman, Lin-Fa Lee, Spears McAllester, Faye & Melvin Nunez, Carolyn Perry, John Rowland, Gary Selcer, Louie Spencer, Arlene Swallows, Jerry Wright, Donald Box, reporting.

This chilly day warmed up as the morning went on and 26 enthusiastic hikers came out to trek this beautiful 6 mile trail on Lookout Mountain. John led 6 hikers on the trail the previous Friday, but they unselfishly came out again so that the other hikers could see Glenn Falls at its best - right after a rain. If you haven't walked this trail, please do so as it is a gem so close to home! We walked from the lowest parking lot at Ruby Falls, around the mountain on the Guild Trail and under the incline, climbed up the mountain via the Whiteside Trail to the picnic area on Shingle Road, found the trail again to the left of the bathroom building at the picnic area, then followed our noses to Ochs Highway, crossed it and stepped onto the .9 mile Glenn Falls trail. Happy to be together again after the holidays were: Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, John Rowland. Betty Petty, Larry Parks, Kathy Seymour, Lou Novakow, Monty Simmons, Margaret Reisman, Pete Rittenberry, Reggie Jay, Ray Myers, Wayne Chambers, Val Hargis, Renee Grace, Wanda McCarter, Teresa Dean, Mac Dean, Sue Christensen, Donald Box, Tim Chomyn, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Linda Busby, Tennyson Carico, and Che Carico reporting. And yes, we gave John his way and returned to the Purple Daisy for excellent barbeque and 'nanner puddin'.

The Wednesday hike on December 21 was rained out, so John rounded up as many hikers as would come to hike from Ruby Falls to Glenn Falls and back - @ 6 miles - on Friday. This trail is a little known gem right here in town as you can see from pictures. The falls can be accessed from Ruby Falls, a trailhead on Ochs Highway, or from a pulloff on the Ochs Highway in two places - one just above the falls and one about .9 of a mile from the falls. Recent rains made for a spectacular rush of water. After a perfect workout the hikers made haste to the Purple Daisy in St. Elmo. This delightful little barbeque, etc., place features award winning banana pudding! Out for today were: John Rowland, Kathy Seymour, Val Hargis, Bill Kinnaman, JD Dickinson, and Trish Appleton. and Che Carico reporting.

Today was the day for our annual Christmas lunch and trail maintenance at the Pot Point House. 41 folks turned out to walk the 3 mile trail there, pick up trash ( the pickup truck Larry and Rhonda Park brought was absolutely full!), and enjoy a wonderful covered dish lunch. We also had very special guests: Sarah Quattrochi and Jim Brown of the Tennessee River Gorge Trust, Sam Powell who is a devoted trail planner, builder, and advocate for land protection, and Jean Dolan who likely has the record for years of hiking - past and future!. Richard's devotional and blessing were remarkable! We surely enjoyed sharing this time with current regulars, some brand new hikers acquired this year, a few spouses, and precious former regular hikers. It was touching for most to remember Martha Myers, former outings planner and leader, and who passed away this year. She was certainly missed today! Che Carico reporting.

Twelve hikers embarked on an old road on a cool December morning atop Falling Water Mountain in the Falling Water State Natural Area. After leaving the jeep road we followed the blue blazed trail for a beautiful trek along Clear Branch and then a relatively new loop, partly on the brow of the mountain with fantastic views, then back around Clear Branch and then on to a new overlook with even better views where we ate lunch above the 140 foot ‘Power Line Falls’ nearby and viewed the valley below and mountains I the distance. We returned to our cars on a partially different route. Enjoying the beautiful nine mile hike were Renee Peppers, Tony Cook, Orval Porter, John Rowland, Gary Selcer, John Rowland, Pam Joyner, Catherine Long, Matt Long, Diane, Tristan and Tyler Walker, and Boodie Fox, reporting.

About 35 club members and family joined for a wonderful evening at Greenway Farms. Che Carico and her many generous helpers had the dining room decorated festively and the covered dishes laid out for us. Thanks to all who attended for the overflowing table of donations for the Ronald McDonald House-the beginning, I predict, of a tradition of giving at our holiday party. Dinner and dessert were excellent; Che cooked a turkey and you missed out on a great meal if you couldn't attend! A special plaque was presented to Betty Petty for her years of volunteer service in managing the website, newsletter, and also the member database.

We wouldn't be a club without the unselfish efforts of Betty and also those of our other hike leaders. We recognized 4 hike leaders who will receive patches for reaching these milestones:
Donald Box 100+ hikes
Doug Cooper 40 hikes
Elizabeth O'Connor 30 hikes
Steve Barnes 10 hikes
Next, Elizabeth Giddens, associate professor of English at Kennesaw State University, presented a slide show on the history of hotels in the Smokies. Many of the hotels attracted rich people with the promise of therapeutic springs and mosquito-free mountain air (to avoid the threat of malaria). People would stay for months at a time at the sprawling multi-story hotels with their wrap-around verandahs. For more of this fascinating history, refer to the Smokies Life magazine, a publication of the Great Smoky Mountains Association, gsmassoc.org. GSMA is a non-profit organization that gives major financial and other support to the park. Our many thanks both to Dr. Giddens and to Gary Petty, who arranged for her to speak after reading her article in the magazine. Again, an excellent evening to visit and chat with each other; it seems that many of us don't get to hike together nearly often enough! Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting.

With this after-Thanksgiving hike marked 70% off, I expected more hikers; maybe the weather scared a few off. It certainly was an ugly looking day as we drove up Monteagle and got started on the trail. We were pleased to see that the creeks were full of water and Joe spotted something probably never seen before on a club hike; there were two Koi fish swimming in one of the larger pools in the upper part of Big Fiery Gizzard Creek! After a short visit to Sycamore Falls where the sun actually tried to peak through a little, we climbed the Dog Hole Trail and headed on out to Raven Point with the sun out of sight behind the thickening clouds again. After we huddled together for lunch at the point in gale-force winds, we headed back, a little worried that those gray clouds might give us a good dousing before we reached the car. But the gray clouds soon disappeared, replaced by fluffy white clouds and blue sky; so we moved along at a much more leisurely pace, no longer worried about the rain, just admiring the cascades of Little Fiery Gizzard Creek and enjoying what turned out to be a lovely afternoon. No hunting for a parking space, no crowds pushing and shoving, and especially no pepper spray! Just Kendra Cross, Betty Petty, Joe Teringer, Joyce Campbell, and John Rowland (reporting) having a great day out in the woods.

"Who signed me up for this?" is what I always say when the alarm goes off at 4:45 on those days when Wayne or Richard are leading an out of town hike on which I agreed to go. On this day it was Wayne and 11 others met him at the BiLo in Ooltewah for the day trip to the Smokies. The hikers were Smokies veterans and those new to the quest of marking a Smokies map. The day was stellar - cool enough to make the gradual uphill climbing of Cove Mountain comfortable. The sky overhead was clear and so very blue. Most of the leaves were down (a little color along the way) which gave a clear view of the rolling terrain as we climbed, and a clear view of the tower on Cove Mountain way off in the distance - our destination! Lunch was in a little saddle in a low spot along the trail which teased us with the thought that our climb was soon to be over - not so!! The wide and easily walked Cove Mountain trail gave way to the narrow and more uneven Laurel Falls trail which led down to the parked cars. Mosses, ferns, and evergreens were splendid. The waterfall was spectacular as the previous days rain had filled it to roaring capacity. Once again grateful to Wayne who unselfishly leads new "map converts" on trails he has hiked many times before were: Richard Park, Stormy McGauley, Arlene Swallows, Reggie Jay, Debbie Lambert, Patti Giles, Jerry Wright, John Hyler, Linda O'Neal, John Rowland, Donald Box, Che Carico, and Wayne Chambers. Farewell hugs were given only after a FINE meal at Miss Lily's in Townsend.

Pulling into the Savage Gulf Ranger Station parking lot at 9:30 (EST), we were surprised at the number of vehicles already there. Among them was a church van, and also a Boy Scout troop trailer. Registering, we were told there were already 30 people spending then night at the Hobbs cabin campground. I was concerned as to whether we would be able to find a campsite (let alone #8, always my 1st choice), and an adequate water supply. - - It was a beautiful, temperate, and windy day as we shuffled through the blanket of fallen and noisy leaves between the Ranger Station and Hobbs Cabin. Bare trees and limbs rubbed against each other making strange groaning and creaking sounds.
Arriving at the campground,.. surprise! Site #8 was vacant. Although there were probably 7 people occupying the cabin, 4 or 5 of the 8 campsites were never occupied during the night. (We estimated probably only 17-18 people spent the night.) - - Though the water supply had leaves, pine needles, etc. floating on and in it, it was adequate. We were able to fairly easily gather enough wood for a fire from 7:00 until 10:15. The wind (and strange noises) plus a full moon kept us company all night, but we were comfortable since it only got down to around 40 degrees. (The wind also continued the next day during our hike out.) Although 5-6 of the people we had expected/hoped would have been able to join us were not able to do so, it was a good outing, enjoyed by Doug Cooper, Bill Kinnaman, Betty Petty, and Donald Box, reporting.

The Flipper Bend trail is on Signal Mountain near the entrance to Boston Branch. The trailhead begins in a grassy field/parking area at the junction of Hixson Springs Road and Standing Rock Road. It is maintained by the North Chickamauga Creek Conservancy and has fresh white blazes to make the trail easier to follow. For a local hike it is varied with ups and downs, minor creek crossings, brow views, typical Cumberland Plateau geology, fragrant evergreens, and a great lunch spot on the brow overlooking the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge. Rain was in the forecast but once again held off until the hike of 9.3 miles was almost complete. Some of our hikers today added an 2 extra miles by exploring the blue blazed Clear Branch loop. For a local hike, this trail will give you a good workout! Beating feet to beat the rain were: Val Hargis, Renee Grace, Richard Park, Gary Petty, Trish Appleton, Pat Abercrombie, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Wayne Chambers, Donald Box, Ray Myers, Bob Rahn, Pete Rittenberry, Pete Moore, Joan Bailey, Mott Gammon, Patti Giles, Bill Kinnaman, Arlene Swallows, and Che Carico reporting.

Twelve hikers set out on a cold but sunny morning at Cloudland Canyon State Park, one of our premier local destinations for fall colors. We hiked the West Rim trail first, then returned to eat lunch at the picnic tables with views just past peak color on the canyon rim. Michelle, Carolyn, and Faye left us at this point and the rest of us continued down to Sitton Gulch. By now, the day was relatively warm and the colors, especially yellows, were brilliant inside the canyon. The creek and waterfall were at a fairly low level but still pretty. On the hike back out, Cyrus, assisted by Donald, counted the steps up-I believe it was well over 500. Sharing good company and great hiking weather were Kathy Ryan, Donald Box, Rebecca Chapman, Patti Giles, Wendy Gunn, Michelle Anderson, Cyrus Baghai, Donna Ruiz, Peter Connolly, Faye Nunez, Carolyn Perry, and Chris O'Connor, hike leader.

The Bear Creek Trail was once called the Back Country Trail and is located in the Cloudland Canyon Park area. It has been closed for about 15 years and now has been reopened thanks to trail crews led by Randy Whorton and Joe Endres. The distance for this "lollipop loop" is 8+ miles. The terrain is varied and beautiful with dramatic ups and downs, huge rock overhangs, a creek crossing that will sometimes require water shoes or boot protection, and bluff views of the side of the gorge where most of you have hiked before. 31 hikers came out today to enjoy being the first group of hikers on this refurbished trail except for the trail builders. After hiking in to the loop on the "stick" of the lollipop, we turned right and hiked counter clockwise until approaching the bluff, brilliant sunshine, and spectacular fall color in the gorge. There were so many of us that the first wave of hikers (the fast "pod"), after finishing their lunches, came away from the bluff edge and moved back into the woods to make room for the next group. The third group moved down to the bluff upon arrival where there was enough room for some in the second group to linger. Randy led us a little out of the way on our return to the cars to show us a meadow with a pretty lake and bird houses. Finishing at different times, but all accounted for were: Randy Whorton, Joe Endres, Val Hargis, Debbie Lambert, Linda O'Neal, Trish Appleton, Ray Myers, Richard Park, Monty Simmons, Pat Abercrombie, Sharon Hogan, Susan Garrett, Liz Davidson, Suzanne Dorough, Mott Gammon, Jennie Chandler, Reggie Jay, Faye and Melvin Nunez, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Pete Rittenberry, Sue Christensen, Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Patti Giles, Stormy McGauley, Donald Box, Renee Grace, Vicki Armour, and Che Carico reporting.

Driving the Tail of the Dragon to the trailhead, we peered out the car windows to look at tornado damage that still has a few Smokies trails closed. From the trailhead we hiked out on Wolf Ridge Trail, crossing several vigorous streams, on this cool and beautiful sunny morning. We admired the brilliant fall color, which reached peak as we climbed the Twentymile trail, then the color faded and branches became bare by the time we reached the wind tunnel at the intersection with the A.T. The gap where Lost Cove and Twentymile reach the A.T. is always windy and cold in my experience. But it was just warm enough to sit and enjoy lunch while talking to a group of three backpackers, and Michelle shared her freshly baked cookies with them. We continued towards Shuckstack and admired the dusting of snow on the distant ridge. Oh! Then we saw the dusting of snow by our feet as well. We soaked up the views from Shuckstack while Kate fearlessly climbed the icy tower steps to get photos for us. We descended quickly in warm afternoon sun and arrived fairly early in Chattanooga. Three of us went on to Five Guys for delicious burgers. Enjoying a perfect fall day were Kate Cywinski, Ralph Van Pelt, Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting, and Michelle and Eric Anderson, hike leader.

An amazing weather day was enhanced by the company of Jeff Hunter of Tennessee Wild and Laura Marsh, a recent UT grad in the field of Ecology. The two of them planned this excursion in celebration of the passage of the TN Wilderness Act 25 years ago and to acknowledge the 1867 trek of John Muir through Tennessee on his way from Indiana to the Gulf of Mexico! The Childers Creek trail is indeed part of the John Muir and runs entirely along the Hiwassee River. Leaves swirled down around us, some trees were still quite colorful, and Laura examined many likely hiding places for the amphibians. Jeff was passionate about the flora & fauna and the potentials for wilderness designation for nearly 20,000 acres of the Cherokee National Forest. Laura examined and identified many of the notable plants along the trail. Lunch was at the picnic tables beyond the Big Bend. This is where Laura read several pages from John Muir's chronicles in which he noted his entrance into our state and how varied, hospitable, and beautiful he found it to be. It was in Tennessee that he saw his first woodland stream! Those who hiked the Childers Creek trail out and back for 6 miles and some who hiked an extra 2 miles were: Val Hargis, Bob Rahn, Betty Petty, Trish Appleton, Arlene Swallows, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Stormy McGauley, Richard Park, Bill Kinnaman, Debbie Lambert, Jennie Chandler, Monty Simmons, Pete Rittenberry, Patti Giles, Sue Christensen, Joan Bailey, Susan Garrett, Donald Box, Gail Stokes, Jeff Hunter, Laura Marsh, Barry Richmond, Shannon Bennett, Rene from Sale Creek, and Che Carico reporting.

PS Jeff gave us postcards already addressed to our Senator and House Representative so we can thank them for their continued support of the Tennessee Wilderness Act of 2011. I have some extras for those of you who would like to do this.

Eleven of the Wednesday hikers enjoyed a great Tuesday/Thursday outing, staying at the Hinton Center’s Lake House, overlooking Lake Chatuge in the Blue Ridge Mountains east of Murphy, North Carolina. We hiked Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday, and Thursday morning.
Wednesday was cold (not sure if it made it into the 50s), windy, and rainy most of the day. The hike was to the top of Standing Indian Mountain. Four of us were doing the longer of 2 options. We followed the blue-blazed Kimsey Creek Trail to the junction with the blue-blazed Park Creek Ridge Connector Trail going off to the right. Not readily seeing any blazes continuing straight on the Kimsey Creek Trail, and questioning the blue blazes going to the right, I went forward on the Kimsey Creek Trail a couple hundred feet to the point I could see it continuing on the other side of Kimsey Creek, which due to its width and depth would definitely be a boots off crossing.
The trail description did not mention a creek crossing (which it surely should have for a crossing such as this). It did have a somewhat obscure reference to the Park Creek Trail. Consequently after discussion, we decided (although not really comfortable with the decision) to take the blue-blazed trail to the right (at least for a while). After a bit under half a mile, Richard and Reggie became convinced this was not on the trail we should be on.
Therefore, we returned to the Kimsey Creek Trail and with Reggie in the lead, proceeded forward toward the stream crossing (thinking about having to take our boots off in the cold and wet conditions). As we approached the point where the trail appeared to head into the stream, it bent to the right. - - About a hundred feet beyond the bend was the bridge across the stream!! Donald Box reporting.

Licklog Ridge Trail in Big Frog Wilderness follows ridgetops for most of the 5.7 miles to near the top of Big Frog Mountain. An additional half mile on the Benton MacKaye Trail is necessary to gain the actual top of Big Frog. Licklog Trail is the trail that passes closest to the Big Frog Addition, on the eastern edge of the existing Wilderness, that is included in the current Tennessee Wilderness Bill being sponsored by Senators Alexander and Corker. The ridgetop orientation of this trail and its remote location on the eastern side of the mountain means that, while it has great wintertime views is all directions, it is also subject to a lot of annual growth of branbles and bushes. Our club cleared this trail and made it passable as a maintenance project several years ago, but there has not been a maintenance trip on it for a couple of years. While no other club members volunteered to go on this hike which I co-led with Jeff Hunter, there were a number of folks from TN Wild for a total of nine on the hike. A couple of the ladies in addition to myself had on shorts which meant that we arrived at the top of the mountain somewhat scratched up. The hike was to have been an in-out for 11.4 miles on the Licklog Ridge Trail. But since we naturally felt it necessary to go the extra half mile to the top, we increased it to a 12.4 mile hike. Jeff proposed that either he or myself take the main group back down the Benton MacKaye and the 3 drivers go back down Licklog through the briars to get the cars and then swing around to the Benton MacKaye trailhead (which we had passed on the way to the Licklog trailhead) and pick us up. I did not remember how far it was from the top of Big Frog back to the trailhead and Jeff thought it was about 5.8 miles. So I gave Jeff my car keys and led the main group down the Benton MacKaye. The Benton MacKaye was in good shape with no briars and only one really recent blowdown. Also since the AHS volunteer group had been in about 3 days before installing signs, all trail intersections were clearly marked. However it seemed to take FOREVER to get to the trailhead. When I got home and checked the milage, it was actually 8.5 miles from the top of Big Frog to the trailhead making our total hike 14.7 miles. Betty Petty reporting.

Editor’s Note: Since this hike, the condition of the Licklog Ridge Trail has gained attention in several quarters. There will be a SAWS crew going in soon to clear the blowdowns from the trail and the Cherokee Hiking Club has volunteered to help brush out (loppers and swing blades). Matt Henry, Resource Team Leader, Ocoee/Hiwassee Ranger District, has asked that the AHS Volunteer team that they hope to get the last week in March be used for this trail. If this materializes (not a foregone conclusion), we and the Cherokee Group can work with these kids brushing out the trail. Hopefully we can put on a good showing of people during that week.

Steve Barnes shared another of his trails in the closed community of Lookout Highlands today. The distance was 5 miles and followed a rainy Tuesday. We were not real sure we would escape rain today. The woods were fragrant as they are after a rain - the evergreens so freshly revived. Streams ran with lots of water and a fine mist decorated this lovely woodland trail. Lunch was at the pavilion at Davis Crossroads which was on the way to our next trek at Rock Town. The trail into Rock Town is only 1 mile so we were happy to add it on to Steve's trail. So many had never been here and were thrilled with the ENORMOUS rocks, cave openings, overhangs, and unusual shapes. The most unusual was the "champagne glass". Hikers became climbers as they climbed over, under, and around the rocks. We even met a true climber who demonstrated as he practiced and told us a little about equipment needed for "bouldering". Reaching back to childhood days were: Bob Rahn, Debbie Lambert, Gary Petty, Larry Parks, Linda Busby, Monty Simmons, Richard Park, Val Hargis, Wayne Chambers, Linda O'Neal, Donald Box, Reggie Jay, Sue Christensen, Doug Cooper, Steve Barnes, Betty Petty, and Che Carico reporting.

Today was the club hike and River Rocks hike in the Shackleford Ridge Park on Signal Mountain. I have given a description of the route we took Sept. 21 writeup. More memorable for me today was the turnout of 23 hikers on a gorgeous day. Many were new faces and all hiked enjoying the trail and the new friends. Lunch was spectacular at Edward's Point - you should have heard the oohs and aahs from those who had never been there before. John Dever called our attention to a soaring Cooper's hawk and shared many tree and wildflower facts. John Rowland completed his mission of cutting several particularly large branches that were left behind on our trail maintenance day. Thanks John for making our way clear! Happy hikers were John Rowland, Bill Kinnaman, Donald Box, Debbie Lambert, Liz Benton, Linda Gunther, Louis Spencer, Bev and Jonathan Fowler, Rosemary Hureg, Raquel Jones, Harvey Webb, Boodie Fox, Caron Mansor, Kelly LeCroy, Joy Krause, Kathy Gilley, Robert Croft, Sandy Croft, Christy Charman, John Dever, Joyce Campbell, and Che Carico reporting.

Don Deakins led a River Rocks hike today and what a pleasure for me to just be a participant! The 4.7 mile trail crossed Big and Little Possum Creeks via newly placed bridges. The distance was moderate but the trail is strenuous due to mostly uphill then downhill trail with lots of the usual Cumberland Trail rocks. Beautiful geology, water in Big Possum creek running vigorously while we ate lunch, and 27 eager hikers - some veteran hiking club hikers, some who hike frequently with Don, and quite a few new faces. When completed, the Cumberland Trail will stretch from Prentice Cooper State Forest to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park near Middlesboro, KY. Today we were in the company of some of Don's followers who continue building to complete the sections in this area: Don Deakins, TC Varner, Judy Varner, Bob DeHart, Ed Swanner, and Caroline Woerner. Carole Deakins often joins this amazing group of hard working trail builders and trail maintainers! Che Carico reporting.

It is always a pleasure to meet Gary Smith in the Ocoee and to be led by him. The route on this beautiful day, which had been preceeded by good hard rain the Monday before, began with the 1.7 mile hike from Hwy 30 to Rattlesnake Falls. This little trail and grand waterfall is under hiked likely because it is so short. It is quite splendid in the spring with abundant and varied wildflowers. Upon returning to the junction where you could access both the Clemmer and Clear Creek trails, most continued on to the cars to then drive to the top of the mountain. Richard Park, Larry Parks, Donald Box, Wendy Gunn, Gary Petty, and Monty Simmons turned up Clemmer planning to meet us at Benton Falls. Those who chose to ride to the top hiked the Benton Falls trail and did indeed meet the other hikers just in time for lunch at the water filled falls which had been bone dry until this week. After lunch we scrambled out of the gorge to access the Clear Creek trail and then complete a loop back to the parking area. Thanks to Gary, Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, Gary Petty, John Rowland, Larry Parks, Monty Simmons, Ray Myers, Val Hargis, Kathy Seymour, Wendy Gunn, Sue Christensen, Joan Bailey, Donald Box, JD Dickinson, Richard Park, Kathy Seymour, and Che Carico enjoyed a two beautiful waterfalls in the Chilhowie area. Che Carico reporting.

It was foggy and misty as we drove to our trailhead in the Chattahooche National Forest. But as we began our hike, the skies cleared, and we were fortunate to experience a near-perfect, crisp fall day. This eleven-mile hike, which includes a 1,500 ft. ascent of Blood Mountain (the highest point on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia), is not exactly easy, but exhilarating. A special highlight of the hike was a delightful lunch at Lake Winfield Scott, catered by trail angels Michele and Eric Anderson. Our climb back up to the Appalachian Trail at Jarrad Gap after a big lunch was a challenge, but our spirits were high. Participants included Gary Selcer, Che Carico, Wayne Chambers, Arlene Swallows, Joe Teringer, Stormy McGauley, Tim Chomyn, Bill Kinnaman and Richard Park reporting.

As River Rocks approached, the Wednesday hikers planned trail maintenance for two of the trails that will be hiked during that week of outdoor activites. The section of the Mullins Cove loop from the parking lot above the Indian Rockhouse on toward Hemlock Branch, and out onto Tower Road (5.7 miles) was chosen for maintenance by Bob Rahn, Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Joan Bailey, John Rowland, Bill Kinnaman, Gary Petty, Stormy McGauley, Gwen Brimer, JD Dickinson, Debbie Lambert, and Patti Giles. Armed with saws, hand clippers, loppers, and a sling blade this group started out to clear grown up vegetation and limbs from blow downs. They worked so very hard, slowly progressed because of their clearing efforts, and emerged onto Tower Road hours later with red faces, little remaining water, and quite tired! These hikers did not get to enjoy lunch at Snooper's Rock but did go down to take a look before leaving.
Larry Parks, Arlene Swallows, Sue Christensen, Ray Myers and Che Carico ran the cars down to the parking lot above Snooper's Rock, then returned to begin their section via the Indian Rock House (3.5 miles) There were at least 6 blow downs on this section two of which were large trunks that could not be cut through with our hand equipment. The other blowdowns fell in such a way that the trail was completely blocked by limbs. All of these areas were cut away and the path made clear. Chain saws will be needed for the trees across the trail, but the trail is now passable with only two over, under, or around spots. Lunch was at Snooper's Rock with a beautiful blue sky and view of the river. It was here that we waited for the other hikers to complete their trek. Their trail was longer and more difficult, so they certainly worked longer, but the clearing efforts for both trails were beneficial and fruitful. The chocolate was passed around, tools loaded up, and satisfied hikers/workers traveled the dusty road out to Suck Creek Road and home.

Quotes for the day: "When we get to Snooper's Rock do we get to quit working?" and "I am here to represent Richard and I have to be out of here by 12 noon!"

In September 2001 Susan Faidley completed her 2,176 miles-long Appalachian Trail trek and summited Mt. Katahdin (the 5,267' northern terminus of the AT). John Ball also completed the AT and summited Mt. Katahdin in that September. (The AT is now 2,181 miles due to re-routes) Consequently Susan planned a 10-year anniversary trip for this September, backpacking about a third of the AT's "100-mile Wilderness" and again climbing Mt. Katahdin. I was fortunate to be able to accompany her.

Tuesday, September 13: We flew into Bangor, Maine, landing at 3:10pm and were then shuttled to near White House Landing (with a stop in Millinocket to buy stove fuel and have supper). “Near” means the shuttle driver (who was not sure of the way to White House Landing) dropped us off, in the dark, at a gate across the unpaved road in the wilderness (which he was “pretty certain” was the right road). The instructions were to walk an unknown distance to White House Landing. (A quarter of a mile, a mile, 2 miles?) - - After probably a quarter of a mile walking with uncertainty and headlamps, we did find the White House Landing bunkhouse where we had reservations. We heard loons during the night and the next morning. It rained heavily during the night.

Wednesday: We were served a good eggs/pancakes/English muffins breakfast and then taken across the lake by boat (from which we saw a moose). We were dropped off on the other side with somewhat vague directions as to where we would find a blue-blazed trail on the other side of a rock, which would take us to the AT. After our 2nd attempt, and then deviating from the given directions, we did find the AT and began our 8-mile journey to the Wadleigh Stream Lean-To. Almost immediately we were greeted with a boots-off water crossing. [I had the mistaken impression the 100-Mile Wilderness was a fairly level and easy path through a wilderness of trees and very few roads. It is true the trail is in the trees and there are very few roads.] The trail was surprisingly tough with thousands of tree roots, and lots of rocks. Also many dips in the trail with mud and muck following recent rains. The ground was moist and spongy. - - We ate lunch on a gravely beach at the end of a windy inlet. (There was a fairly comfortable lounge chair chained to a tree.) We camped for the night near the lean-to. The temperature was in the low 30s at night.
Thursday: An overcast day. We made the steepest, and our 2nd highest, climb of our section of the 100-Mile Wilderness, to the top of Nesuntabunt Mountain. From 11:15 to 4:15 we had light to moderately heavy rain which made the tens of thousands of roots and small and sizeable boulders treacherous and the mud and muck pits more numerous and deeper. The plan had been to cover 12 miles to the Rainbow Spring Campsite. However, wet, cold, and tired, we stopped after 8 miles and camped near the Rainbow Spring Lean-To. Another cold night, augmented with more rain.

Friday: On the trail at 7:30 with an immediate boots-off crossing in front of the lean-to. The wet ground reverberated with our footsteps and trekking pole strikes. To makeup for our shortened day yesterday, we backpacked 15 miles in 8 hours, in spite of the hundreds of thousands of wet roots, large boulders, muck, and now bogs (many with narrow log “bridges” across the surface of them). We crested the Rainbow Ledges (highest point) and had our 1st clear view of Mt. Katahdin. In a cold and strong wind, we arrived at the Abol Bridge Campground store where we had hot chocolate and a "loaded" burger for supper. - - At nightfall, John Ball drove in, resupplying us with food and joining us for the rest of the trip. Our campsite was in the path of the wind coming across the cove. Cold night #3.

SATURDAY - WATER CROSSING LESSONS
Standard guidelines for water crossings when hiking/backpacking include:
- Do not attempt to cross if the water is over your knees.
- Unfasten your pack so you can easily slip out of it if necessary.
- Face upstream, lean on your trekking pole(s).
- Side step.

Leaving the Abol Bridge Campground that morning, Susan and John drove to the Katahdin Stream Campground to claim our site for the night, and to then hike to Daicey Pond and back to the Katahdin Stream Campground. - - I was going to hike the 10 miles from the Abol Bridge Campground to the Katahdin Stream Campground since this was a new AT section for me. (I would perhaps meet them at Daicey Pond as the AT passed it.) Several large "ponds" across the trail slowed me down as I had to pick my way through, or try to go around, them. At 4.5, and again at 5.5, miles I had to cross the Nesowadnechunk Stream. The trail guide said both could be difficult in high water. - - Both were both. High water and difficult.
Due to recent rains, both were about 30' across, with quite high water rushing around numerous boulders. Arriving at the first one, I was not comfortable with the prospect of trying to cross. (There was no cell phone service should I need to call Susan and John for help.) - - This was obviously going to be more than a knee-high crossing. Therefore I prepared to cross: boots and pants off, my long sleeve henley tucked up so if water splashed above my beltline it would not get wet, boots & socks and camera hanging around my neck. Wishing I had my water shoes (they were with my backpack that Susan and John had taken with them), I began. Facing upstream, leaning on my trekking pole, very carefully side-stepping among the rocks, with my daypack loose. - - ¾ of the way across was the most forceful and deepest stretch. The hip-high rushing water turned me sideway.
I strained as hard as I could to turn and regain my upstream facing. The current won! I fell onto, and grabbed, a boulder, hitting it with my chest (as I recall). My immediate thought was what if I had knocked the wind out of myself, hit my head, or fallen down in the water. - - However, pulling myself around the boulder, I was able to get out of the rushing water, out of the stream, and pour the water out of my right boot and camera bag. (The camera was OK since I had wrapped it in a plastic bag before crossing.) The arms and bottom half of my henley were of course soaked, but the things in my daypack were dry. I hoped the next crossing would be easier, since I was not about to try to go back across this one.
The next one was similar, rushing hip-high water and boulders. But with difficulty I crossed it without further mishap. Since it was noon, I ate my lunch, made journal notes, and then hurried on since I was quite a bit behind schedule. About a mile later, I met Susan and John coming toward me, concerned I had not shown up, and bringing the news of a trail re-route that would have precluded my reaching Daicey Pond.
While building a campfire that evening, I realized I had some very sore ribs where I obviously hit the boulder. The next morning I realized I had a groin pull, undoubtedly from straining so hard against the current before it won. About 9 days later, I conceded I probably had a cracked rib.

Lessons learned: There is a tremendous force difference between knee-high and hip-high water, and crossing with the help of another person or persons is much safer.
Sunday, the 18th, was the big day! Up at 5:30, and after a cold breakfast of pop tarts and peaches at our Katahdin Stream Campground site, we began our climb of Mt. Katahdin at 6:20am. (The 18th was the exact anniversary of Susan's climb 10 years ago, and 3 days after John had made his climb.) About a 4,600' climb in 5.2 miles on the Hunt Trail, with only about ¾ of a mile being somewhat level. [Look at the trail guide profile of the mountain. "OMG!!" A Class 3 climb! Just short of a technical climb. One with exposure to possible falls. Long falls.] Roots, rocks and boulders. After about 2,400', we reached "The Cave," put our trekking poles away and began a lot of hand-over-hand rock climbing. We passed the tree line, crossed the "Table Land," and then made the final climb to the top of Baxter Peak where we documented our success with pictures at the famous Katahdin sign and ate lunch. - - The descent was just as time consuming, hard, and full of opportunities for injury (requiring even more care and deliberation on the exposed areas, hand-over-hand situations, and boulders and rock formations than we encountered on the way up). Reaching our campsite at 5:30, we broke camp, and drove to Bar Harbor on Maine's Atlantic coast, arriving at 11:15 pm.

Monday: We explored many of Acadia National Park's points of interest, returned to our motel late afternoon to pack for the next day's departure for home, and had a lobster dinner to celebrate the anniversary, the climb, etc.

Tuesday: Drove to the summit of Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park, arriving at 5:50 am to witness the sunrise. (Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the east coast, and being as far east as it is, it is the 1st place in the continental US to see the sun each morning.) Magnificent!! Amazing colors and width! - - Then back to the motel and breakfast, and a return trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain with the intent of viewing raptors soaring on the thermals. Unfortunately, the wind was too strong for the birds to fly, and fog had moved in. Therefore we headed to the airport in Bangor, and home. - Donald Box, reporting

You have heard of "feast or famine" !? Today, after weeks of water famine, we found the upper and lower waterfalls and all creeks at Cloudland Canyon running full force due to the previous 2 days of rain! We began our hike on the Overlook Trail and then hiked over to the West Rim Loop. The air was fresh, the earth washed, and the fragrance of damp evergreens surrounded us. Lunch was on the farthest point of the loop before it turns back left. Upon returning to the main trail everyone walked down the steps to the thundering upper falls. Then most went on down to the lower falls, also thundering with water. Distance today was 6+ miles when including the waterfalls. Happy to have hiked in this wilderness so close to home were: Val Hargis, Bob Rahn, John Rowland, Cecile Shendouda, Lou Novakow, Sue Christensen, Trish Appleton, Bill Kinnaman, Donald Box, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Reggie Jay, and Che Carico reporting.

Randy Whorton has reported that work is moving along nicely for the Bear Creek Trail and 5 Points Trail. These trails will be part of the linkage between Cloudland Canyon and Lula Lake.

Another hot and dry day in the South, yet 24 hikers came out today! We met at the BiLo in St. Elmo then drove to Nick-a-Jack Road (south on 193), up the mountain, and pulled into the beautiful lot at the trailhead. We then placed cars at the other end of this 5.8 mile portion which will eventually connect Lula Lake with Cloudland Canyon. It is exciting to see this trail develop and to know that great efforts are being made to complete the connection. Progress has been severely hampered by the tornado damage on the Rock Creek portion of the trail, however. Clouds made this 100 degree day more tolerable as we followed the trail which rocks and rolls and has some short uphill parts. Goldenrod, bright yellow daisies, and cardinal flower decorated the way. Lunch followed at the Corner Cafe in the town of Lookout Mountain, TN, and the food was so very delicious! What a joy to be surrounded by these hiking friends: Val Hargis, Richard Park, Monty Simmons, Stormy McGauley, Ray Myers, Jennie Chandler, Trish Appleton, Joan Bailey (new hiker for Wednesday), Tim Chomyn, Larry Parks, Pete Rittenberry, John Rowland, Linda Busby, Nancy Hoover, Steve Minton, Bob Rahn, Sue Christensen, Gary Petty, Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Reggie Jay, Lou Novakow, Patti Giles, and Che Carico reporting.

No matter that the forecast was for temperature high to be 98 today - 22 hikers came out! The trek would be one planned by Jennie Chandler. After meeting at BiLo in St. Elmo we drove to the Pocket near Lafayette. While the drivers took cars to the Estelle Mine Trailhead on Hwy 193, those who remained to wait hiked the .5 mile trail to the dry waterfall. This part includes the boardwalk at the Pocket which is famous for its wildflowers in the spring. After setting the cars we all began the 4.8 mile trek on the Estelle Mine Trail. The special feature of this trail is the tunnels built for the small guage trains used in the mining of iron ore. Flashlights are essential for a safe walk through these tunnels. The trail also goes over and around the tunnels and some chose this route making the walk longer. There was a spur trail to a "waterfall" where there was impressive geology but no water. Upon completing the hike we loaded up and went to the Pigeon Mountain Country Store for GREAT hamburgers, BLTs, pimento cheese sandwiches, etc. A short walk across the street from the cafe brought us to the Martin Davis home which has been restored and maintained for the Civil War era historical value it has. Jennie lived there as an infant with her grandparents while her dad was in France. And Richard's great grandfather's picture is in a large group family reunion (1923) picture over a fireplace as he was related to Frank Park who bought the home after Jennie's family moved away. A tour was led by Jim Staub and with him we stepped back in time. Fullfilled physically and in spirit were: Trish Appleton, Betty Petty, Donald Box, Jennie Chandler, Reggie Jay, Theresa Clark, Sheila Bailey, Val Hargis, Bob Rahn, Bill Kinnaman, Richard Park, Larry Parks, Monty Simmons, Pete Rittenberry, Stormy McGauley, Arlene Swallows, Tim Chomyn, Sue Christensen, John Rowland, Ravyn Carico, Tristan Carico and Che Carico reporting.

Thanks to Betty we have discovered and enjoyed a great new area for short hikes on hot days! The Elsie Holmes Nature Park is a jewel located off of Ooltewah/Ringgold Road just into Catoosa County. To get there go south on East Brainerd Road, turn right onto Ooltewah/Ringgold Road and go a few miles, looking for a short sign to Elsie Holmes. You will turn right here, go over railroad track, and then wander through a neighborhood following the signs. The park has a pavilion, bathrooms, playground equipment, a friendly caretaker, and a kiosk with maps of the trail system. Wear your boots and carry your poles as this area is not just a stroll in the woods. The terrain is mostly gentle ups and downs but there are some quite steep parts with loose gravel and roots. The main loop trail runs parallel to the South Chickamauga Creek which today surprisingly had a good bit of water. Hot and happy to have found this park were: Kathy Seymour, Lou Navakow, Betty Petty, John Rowland, Trish Appleton, Jennie Chandler, Bob Rahn, Bill Kinnaman, Nancy Hoover, Val Hargis, Stormy McGauley, Monty Simmons, Linda Busby, Sue Christensen, Arlene Swallows, Larry Parks and Che Carico reporting.
We were pleasantly surprised at lunch at Bones when we were joined by Ray Myers (spent the morning installing a new water heater) and Gordon Sweenie who had driven up from Dalton.

We are still taking advantage of local natural areas for the Wednesday hikes and finishing them by noon. This gets us onto the trails in the somewhat cooler morning hours. Today we revisited (for some the first time) the Enterprise South Nature Park and rambled hours in this wonderful wooded area just on the edge of town. If you haven't been yet, you will find the visitor center comfortable and full of information about the park and its future growth. With trail maps you can hike (4.5 miles of wooded trails and 5 miles of paved trails), bike (10 miles for mountain biking and 5 miles paved), or drive your car (7 mile loop) to enjoy the park. In the future there will be horse trails. There is a small lake, but Ray said "it isn't big enough to wash one foot in!" Historically the preserved munitions bunkers are a reminder of the role Chattanooga played in World Wars I and II, Korean War, and Vietnam. Enjoying the day were: Bill Kinnaman newly returned from August Camp, Bob Rahn and Ray Myers leading the way, John Rowland, Larry Parks, Linda Busby, Pete Rittenberry, Stormy McGauley, Trish Appleton, Val Hargis, Wayne Chambers soon to be MIA after back surgery, Sue Christensen, Lou Navakow, Betty Petty, and Che Carico, reporting.
The Red Lobster at Hamilton Place was the requested lunch spot today and we all shared coupons from the Sunday paper.

Perseverance was the word of the day. This was the kind of hike that makes you appreciate air-conditioning! We left cars at Laurel Point picnic area, and began hiking from East Overlook, out on the trail well before the mountain bikers. The pretty bank of fog covering the river gorge and the reservoir quickly burned off. Early on we saw the unique passionflower. They look tropical in their purple/lavender showiness, And, according to my wildflower book, they are indeed the Smoky Mountain's only member of a large family of tropical plants. Yet I've seen them only in Chattanooga. We took a break at the visitor center about half-way through our hike to cool off a bit and admire a beautiful luna moth spotted by Tim. We continued on to Laurel Point on the Megawatt Trail, and I was impressed that despite the mugginess of the day, no one complained. At least the great majority of our hike was in the shady forest!
Several of us re-grouped downtown at Sweet Peppers for lunch. Enjoying the hike and hoping to re-visit this area in the fall were Tim Chomyn,Rudy Hausler, Sarah Woodard, Therese Worth, Kathy Ryan, Angela Dittmar,Shannon Johnson, Chris O'Connor, and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader reporting.

Today was another good day to walk vigorously in the am, have lunch, then go to the BiLo for senior discount day or home to indoor chores! We explored the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway and walked about 5 miles. It is exciting to see this section of the greenway develop and to know that eventually the existing River Walk will extend all the way to Camp Jordan. We are beginning to get a better sense of this route. The new section is paved so tennis shoes are fine for walking. You can get to this area by turning right on Access Road from Amnicola and then turning right just past the Lighting Gallery and following the road until it curves left and crosses a bridge. The parking area is then on your left. Lunch was at Logan's where the peanut buckets cannot be denied and the food is delicious. Cool and content were: Pete Rittenberry, Trish Appleton, Gwen Brimer, Reggie Jay, Ray Myers, Wayne Chambers, Monty Simmons, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Betty Petty, Jennie (our miracle child) Chandler, Larry Parks, Cecile Shenouda, John Rowland, Val Hargis, Sue Christensen, and Che Carico reporting.
ED Note: Since this hike, Chattanooga Parks and Recreation has set in place a new foot bridge across Chickamauga Creek under Bonnie Oaks Drive where this hike terminated.

When I began hiking on Wednesdays 21 years ago (!), the first seven weeks I was led on trails on Lookout Mountain by Cynthia Cowan. There is a great trail system there and today we chose a sequence that gave us a decent workout but found us finishing by 12:15. We parked at Craven's House and Wayne, Lou, Patti, Larry, and Tim headed down the Upper Truck Trail in search of the Gum Springs Trail by which they would access the Bluff Trail. The rest of us began on the Rifle Pits Trail, but we turned left on the Craven's House Trail climbing gently toward the Bluff Trail. Upon arriving there we turned left and walked toward Point Park where we waited for the longer distance hikers to catch us. When they did we all continued together on the Mountain Beautiful Trail which goes under the Incline. As the cable car passed by the young conductor called out "How did you get there?" !! We answered that we got there by walking on a trail. She then said "Aren't you afraid of animals?" I guess the woods around us looked like dangerous wilderness to her - little does she know! The Mountain Beautiful comes into the Hardy Trail and we finished our loop back to Craven's House. The most noticeable flower of the day was the spiderwort mixed in with the poison ivy! With priorities in order we loaded up and went for lunch at Bea's on Dodd's Avenue! Pleased to have walked enough to work off that amazing buffet were: Tim Chomyn, Wayne Chambers, Betty Petty, Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Kathy Seymour, Bill Kinnaman, Sue Christensen, John Rowland, Lou Novakow, Patti Giles, Larry Parks, and Che Carico reporting. This was a great turnout on a day when the weather channel was describing the serious heat wave in many parts of the country.

A small group of hikers departed from Ooltewah, and proceeded to the Cherokee National Forest. After winding around the Forest Service roads for 6 miles the group was wondering if we were lost. The leader did have to borrow Bill's map to confirm we were nearing the trailhead. We finally arrived and disembarked. The day was sunny and warm, but was much milder than the recent 90 degrees plus. Wayne needed to bum some bugspray and Bill tried to make a handy profit. The warm sunshine and gentle breeze combined to make for a pleasant gradual climb. We had distant views of the Blue Ridge and Cohuttas and sampled a few blackberries along the trail. After a final steep ascent we reached the ridge top and enjoyed a leisurely snack. The temperature was a cool 70 degrees but seemed even colder with the ridgetop wind. We finished lunch then proceeded quickly back down the ridge. JD stopped to snap photos of some interesting but unknown wildflowers that she recognized as in the sweetpea family. Later we identified the most interesting as a Butterfly Pea. On the ride home Patti convinced us of the need to stop at Gilliland's to pick up some fresh peaches. The group consisted of Patti Giles, Jean Dickenson, Bill Kinnaman, Wayne Chambers, Tim Chomyn and Steve Barnes, reporting.

It was time for our annual rafting/hiking/picnic event on the Hiwassee River and with a heat index predicted for over 100 degrees, today was a great day to go. This is a well attended outing as there is something for everyone: duckies for floating the river, a 3.5 mile hike for those who chose not to raft, and roasted to perfection hot dogs for everyone at the Big Bend picnic area. The rafters started out from the put-in and floated down to Big Bend for lunch. The hikers began their walk at the John Muir trailhead on the right after turning on the road to the raft put-in. Upon reaching the picnic sight Betty, Ray, Kathy, Bill, Che, Gordon, Lana, and Wayne began bringing out the tablecloths and food items brought by all in preparation for the arrival of the rafters. Bill, Bob, Monty and John grilled the hot dogs and watched over the chili simmering in a black iron skillet. Other dishes included pasta salad, baked beans, slaw, hummus, salsa and chips, fruit including watermelon, sliced tomatoes, deviled eggs, Gwen's "good tea" and lots of desserts! What a spread! The forecasted PM thunderstorms went around us and all safely arrived back at Webb Brothers' store. Enjoying this wonderful day were: Cecile Shenouda, Nancy Hoover, Gwen Brimer, Richard Park, Pam Park, Charlie Park, John Rowland, Gordon Sweenie, Lana Sweenie, Stormy McGauley, Trish Appleton, Linda Busby, bob Rahn, Wayne Chambers, Monty Simmons, Pete Rittenberry, Sue Christensen, Bill Kinnaman, Kathy Seymour, Ray Myers, Betty Petty, Rick Jantzen, Melissa Jantzen, Carroll Viera, and Che Carico reporting.

On a warm rather humid day we started out on the AT from Newfound Gap bound for Charlie's Bunion. I had thought about doing the side trip to the Jump-off, but all we had seen from the clearings as we hiked up was clouds. So we swung by for a look at the Icewater Springs shelter, then continued on out to the Bunion, admiring a couple really nice Turk's Caps on the way. There was quite a crowd at the Bunion and most of the good seats were taken, but we found some places around the back side and enjoyed our lunch while looking at the short-range scenic views that the occasional breaks in the clouds provided. I even had a brief conversation with some strange backpacker named Butterfield. Before we left, since the rocky point was then unoccupied, the two ladies of the group climbed up and declared themselves Queen of the Mountain (no argument from the men...). On the way back we ruefully again skipped the side trip to the Jumpoff, fearing that we wouldn't be able to see anything if we went. We instead decided a return trip later this fall might be in order.
Dinner was at Subway in Townsend, where most of us felt we had earned an ice cream; I was going to report on how many scoops Reggie had, but she threatened to destroy me in her blog, so I'll let that pass. Enjoying the day despite the lack of the usual great views were Kathy Seymour, Reggie Jay, Doug Cooper, Bill Kinnaman, Monty Simmons, welcome newcomer Rudy Hausler, and (gladly substituting for the injured Michelle Anderson) John Rowland reporting.

It has been fun taking off after Betty Petty to her stomping grounds in the Tellico area! Today we headed to the Bald River Falls trail, one which many had not experienced. Two days of rain had filled the river and the falls were splendid. The trail is a Wilderness Trail that follows the river almost all the way to the cascades where we ate lunch and had a foot soaking experience. It is easily hiked except for a few steeply uphill places and some narrow spots. One of these narrow places gave way under petite Kathy Seymour and she found herself dangling off the side. Betty stopped her downward slide and I came along to grab her other arm, helping to pull her back onto the trail. Only minor scratches for Kathy, but a close call. This should remind us to hike as close to the inside of the trail as possible when on a narrow stretch. We were amazed and certainly enjoyed giant rhododendron still freshly blooming along the river. After finishing this beautiful 8.4 mile hike we reluctantly passed up Nutti’N Fancy and headed home. The newly named "road runners" today were Wayne Chambers, Richard Park, Tim Chomyn, Larry Parks, and John Rowland who were followed out at a slower pace by Betty Petty, Kathy Seymour, Val Hargis, Bob Rahn, Cecile Shenouda, Monty (the sweep) Simmons, Ray Myers, Bill Kinnaman, and Che Carico reporting.

If you need a place to hike that is not so far away, is short in length, but challenging, consider the Sitton's Gulch trail. It is about 3 miles to the upper Cloudland Canyon waterfall from the trailhead on Canyon Park Drive in Trenton. There is a stream running beside the trail its entire distance, but you will sometimes find it dry as we did today. However, the three waterfalls along the way did have water and climbing the gently upward trail and the wooden steps was worth it. Lunch was by the upper waterfall and everyone made it there. Half of our number did go on up to the Cloudland Canyon rim just to get in a little more distance. Jack-in-the-pulpit leaves were everywhere, so coming back in the spring will be a must. Oak leaf hydrangeas were the blooming plants of this hike as they were scattered throughout the woods. Those who came out in spite of severe thunderstorm warnings were: Larry Parks, Betty Petty, Richard Park, Bill Kinnaman, Trish Appleton, Kathy Seymour, Patti Giles, Dianne Baldwin, Arlene Swallows, Wayne Chambers, Debbie Lambert, Tim Chomyn, Bob Rahn, and Che Carico reporting.

The weekend of June 24th was beautiful in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! We had some of the clearest views for summertime I have ever seen! Temperatures were great and humidity was low. We started the weekend with a gathering in Cades Cove Campground on Friday evening with Mary Young, Harold Wilkey, Betty Petty, Jerry Wright, Wayne Chambers, Monty Simmons, Donald Box, Bob Butterfield and I. We enjoyed our dinner, a campfire, and that wonderful club camaraderie we all find so significant in our lives. Thanks to Wayne, we roasted the largest marshmallows I have ever seen! This particular weekend was the anniversary of my first hike with the CHC Saturday group 15 years ago, when Mary led us on the Anthony Creek, AT, Russell Field loop amid incredible flame azaleas blooming in Spence Field and along the Appalachian Trail. Harold and Betty were also on that first hike, which included my introduction to the wonderful dog bus of Betty's that carried us over many road miles laughing together. This particular hike in 1996 was certainly a life-altering event in my own life. And since that time this wonderful loop has always been one of the top hikes for me in the Smoky Mountains. Mary's leadership with the club and mentoring of me was and remains today of great significance in my life. Her passion for hiking and for the CHC - being one of the founding members - is something that touches many of us. So I was thrilled when she and Harold made it for this special weekend. It was also wonderful to have Betty join the hike as she has also been a teacher and leader for myself and many others. In addition to dear friends, clear views, and great weather, we enjoyed the rosebay rhododendron in full bloom most of the way on the Anthony Creek and Russell Field trails. Never have I seen it blooming this much. And from our wet spring, the Smokies seemed more alive and richer than ever in the years and many miles I have hiked there. It is truly a treasure of trails rich with beauty, old-growth forest (with one of the largest blocks of old-growth temperate forests in North America), and tremendous biological diversity. We are indeed fortunate to have this gem of a national park in our back yards. Susan Faidley reporting.

Eleven of us embarked on the Bay Point loop which took us on a 4.5 mile trek along the shore line of Harrison Bay State Park, a very wide, level and well-trimmed trail. It wasn't too warm, though humid, so we moved at a rather fast pace, however, stepping aside numerous times for runners passing through. We finished in 1.5 hours and took our break as we drove over to Enterprise South Nature Park near the new Volkswagen plant. After a short stop at the visitor center, we did a 3.5 mile section of easy rolling hills, passing Hidden Lake and many TNT bunkers of times past, throughout the woods; one of which was open as a historical display. Enjoying the two hikes were Sharon Anderson, Carolyn Perry, Faye Nunez, Gale Arden, Ana and Walter Keating, John Rowland, Monty Simmons, Tim Chomyn, Gary Selcer and hike leader and reporter, Boodie Fox (transcribed by Kendra Cross).

I was all puffed up with pride today because of the hard work the Wednesday hikers did in clearing a trail on Signal Mountain damaged by the February and April storms. This group of hikers has been eager to help with storm cleanup and was pleased to tackle the project directed by Bill Fronk of the Signal Mountain Parks and Recreation Board who works tirelessly with Sam Powell. There were chain saws operated by Will Gailmard and JD Dickinson (I hear JD pulls out her chain saw as easily as if it were a switch blade and goes to work!), loppers, weed eaters, hand clippers, fire rakes provided by Bill Fronk, strong arms to clear the cuttings left by the power tools, and spray and brush-on blue paint for freshly blazing the trail. Bill is quoted as saying "That is an A -1 trail clearing job!" Tasks completed include cutting away a huge tree from the swinging bridge so the town crew can get in to repair it, and fire raking "down to the mineral" almost 3 1/2 miles of this now cleared and blazed trail. The trail (CVS to Green Gorge Loop) is a spur of the CT and will soon join the Rainbow Lake trail as a link to the CT. After two and a half hours of unrelenting work we headed to Nancy Hoover's (she lives nearby) for a picnic lunch to which everyone contributed something. Cool, refreshed, and feeling proud of their efforts were: Larry Parks, Bill Kinnaman, JD Dickinson, Trish Appleton, Reggie Jay, Arlene Swallows, Richard Park, Monty Simmons, John Rowland, Gwen Brimer, Lou Novakow, Debbie Lambert, Stormy McGauley, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Caroline Woerner, Pete Rittenberry, Bill Fronk, and Che Carico, reporting.

A group of 4 hikers ventured to the Crockford Pigeon Mountain area on the morning of June 11. Due to the the inattentiveness of the hike leader we passed by the proposed starting point at the Blue Hole and continued to the Rocky Lane entrance. We elected to drive to the top of the mountain and parked at Sawmill Lake. After another minor false start we proceeded out the fire road toward the Pocket Trail. Although it was a typically hot June morning there was an occasional breeze flowing over the ridge top. We circled along the south side of the Pocket Trail to the West Brow trail which was our original destination. We heard a few cicadas in the distance but the din had died down a lot in the last week. After passing High Point we stopped for a break on some ridge top rocks. We caught a few glimpses of the scenic McClemore Cove through the trees. There were numerous deer tracks in the trail and Tim spotted one crossing the trail as he rounded a corner. We continued along the west brow until we reached Bear Lake and returned to the fire road via a side trail. Bill spotted some wild blueberries and he and Patti enjoyed an unexpected trailside snack. We continued back to our vehicle and wound our way back down to Chamberlain Road and the return home. Those enjoying a warm morning walk included Patti Giles, Tim Chomyn, Bill Kinnamon, and Steve Barnes, reporting.

Today's adventure began at the Ooltewah BiLo where we met Betty Petty, our leader. Betty took us to her portion of the Benton MacKaye trail which routes up Sugar Mountain from Pheasant Grove. Since she burns up the road from here to there frequently, we turned left from the parking lot and continued to Cleveland via McDonald. After reaching the Cleveland Bypass and the Ocoee exit, we headed up 64 to the Benton/Maryville exit, turning left off of the ramp and heading toward Benton. This is where Betty's back road knowledge came in handy as we cut off many miles by turning right off of 411 toward Etowah, then right turn on E39 (310) to Tellico Plains, another right at the junction with 68, left at the Cherohala Skyway sign, and right on the Tellico Road following this until we reached the parking area near the fish hatchery. Chattanooga news stations had warned folks about being out of doors today with the high temps. But you know it was a bit cooler in Tellico so up the mountain we went, 2.4 miles. At our turn around place Betty talked about the Benton MacKaye and it's relationship to the CT and AT. We admired her name on the trail marker here which gives her credit (with Ralph Van Pelt) for keeping the Sugar Mountain Section maintained. Then back down the mountain enjoying so much the still in bloom Mountain Laurel she had promised, and the numerous and vivid flame azaleas! Late lunch was at John's pick: Nuttin' Fancy in Tellico. I think the hot menu item for today was the meatloaf, with generous portions of fresh vegetables, and blackberry cobbler with ice cream. Those who hiked to eat were: Richard Park, Pete Rittenberry, John Rowland, Stormy McGauley, Patti Giles, Arlene Swallows, Diane Baldwin, Bill Kinnaman, Larry Parks, Kathy Seymour, Linda Busby, Che Carico, Doug Cooper (newly hiking with us), and Betty Petty. With these long daylight hours of summer, we look forward to following Betty on more of her well- walked trails. Che Carico reporting.

The original plan was to have a large number of people help the National Park Service today, clearing and reopening the trails on the western slope of Lookout Mountain that were devastated by the storms/tornados on April 27. However, since approval and financing still had not been received from Washington for staff overtime, etc., NPS staff could not accept our offer. Therefore, the Hiking Club observed National Trails Day by working on 3 different projects at Reflection Riding. Bill and Larry rectified a drainage/erosion problem on a trail at the entrance to the property by creating 5 water bars. Patti and Wendy removed concentrations of invasive English ivy from trees both at the entrance and around the Humphreys House. (Neither group saw the large resident copperhead that lives at the entrance.) The rest of us split into 2 “limbing” crews, using hand saws to remove branches from blow downs across a couple of trails so a chain saw crew can come in later and quickly and easily get to the trunks and major limbs.
Those “enjoying” the heat of the day were Steve Barnes, Patti Giles, Wendy Gunn, Bill Kinnaman, Larry Parks, Betty Petty, John Rowland, Kathy Ryan, and Ralph Van Pelt. Donald Box, reporting.

One of our favorite hot day hikes is the Savage Gulf area then lunch at the Cookie Jar. Today we diverted from the day loop trail and followed John to the first overlook on the North Rim Trail, then back to the loop and completed it - roughly 5 miles. Frequent breezes kept the 96 degree temperature tolerable, we saw no snakes, and the flower of the day was the brilliant flame azalea. Water was sparse so we did not hike down to the falls. We ran into a large group of scouts and their leaders from Spring City. They were hiking and camping all week and did look a little frazzled from the heat. When the "dinner bell" rang we headed gratefully to the cool restaurant for the Wednesday special pork roast, fresh vegetables, fried pickles, corn fritters, and various cakes and pies (piled high with meringue)!! Not in a hurry to leave were: John Rowland, Arlene Swallows, Larry Parks, Bill Kinnaman, Val Hargis, Linda Busby, Stormy McGauley, Pete Rittenberry, Richard Park, Diane Baldwin, Betty Petty, and Che Carico reporting.

It was a perfect morning for a hike. Not too hot, bright sunshine, happy hikers. Before I gave my usual pre-hike talk, I had the pleasure of awarding Tony Cook his patch for having led 20 hikes for the hiking club. Tony, I (and many others) hope you lead more!! As I gave my talk, I didn't realize that I had handed out more than one version of the trail map; the one I intended to use, with no trails highlighted, one that had part of the trails highlighted, and several that had "start" written by a gate on Vineyard Alexander Bridge Rd, at the opposite end of the park from where we were actually starting our hike. After I tell our group that we are starting our hike at the Texas Monument on Battle Line Rd, we start getting in our cars to go. As usual for this hike leader, a few cars leave ahead of me. One had already turned around and met us as we were turning onto Battle Line Rd. After I passed the Texas Monument, stopped in the middle of the road and had everyone turn around....we found parking spaces and began getting ready to begin our hike. I quickly realize that we are missing one car. The driver was patiently waiting on the rest of the group to arrive at the "start" point on Vineyard Alexander Rd as was designated on the map. Sooooo once he arrived, we began our little hike. We began at the Texas Monument and hiked Southeast until we crossed Brotherton Rd. From there we continued South, crossing Vineyard Alexander Rd and continuing down a dirt road until we turned back into the woods and hiked a Northwest route until we came to a small clearing back at Vineyard Alexander Rd. We walked a short distance along Vineyard Alexander Road until we turned back into the woods and hiked north back to our cars. The trails were in good shape except for one poison ivy covered blow down which was cause for concern for those who are allergic. We returned to our cars just as the day was starting to heat up. Thanks to Boodie Fox for being my sweep for the day. Those participating in the hike were Monty Simmons, Gary Selcer, Patti Giles, Boodie and Carol Fox, Tony and Carol Cook, Robert and Elaine Fisher, Carolyn Perry, Faye Nunez, Howard and Ann Brown, John Rowland, Robyn Cowan, Mary Alice Applegate, Doug Cooper and hike leader Kendra Cross reporting.

As many times as I have been to Snow Falls, still today there were two with us who had never been on the trail! It is always a treat to lead someone for the first time on a familiar trek. The Laurel/Snow Pocket Wilderness in Dayton is popular and well hiked as it is a true wilderness quite close to home offering a splendid variety of wildflowers, the typical Cumberland Plateau geology, uphill and downhill, Richland Creek always running but fast or slow depending on the recent rain or lack of it, and a waterfall at the end of each trail. Indian pink were all over the place on the lower trail, as well as bee balm, and thistle at the top. We were prepared for a challenging water crossing but could keep our boots on and step across as the water was mostly less than ankle deep. Remember there is this creek to cross before getting to the falls and it is sometimes quite deep. Here along the creek the rhododendron and laurel were splendid! Everyone found a good rock in view of the moderately running Snow Falls and enjoyed a leisurely lunch. Knowing the temperature was to exceed 90, it was comforting to know the trail led mostly downhill on the return trip. Stopping once again at PaPaws for what was likely the last of the strawberry crop were: Wayne Chambers, Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Reggie Jay, Monty Simmons, Tim Chomyn, Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Lou Novakow, Stormy McGauley, Linda Busby, Jean Dickinson, and Che Carico reporting.

We began today's hike from Signal Mountain Middle/High School to Edward's Point not certain if we would find storm damage in our way. There have been reports of extensive damage on Signal Mountain, but so far these reports have focused on the CT section of trail from Edward's Point to Mushroom Rock. To begin this hike we parked at the soccer fields at the end of Sam Powell Parkway and accessed the blue perimeter trail, going left around the school property until we came to the junction with the yellow blazed trail to Edward's Point. Caroline Woerner had recently refreshed the blazes and they were SO easy to follow. Upon reaching Edward's Point a democratic vote said it was time for lunch with the beautiful view of the river spreading out below. In a surprise move and one that was likely not very considerate to a few hikers, I decided to guide us on the CT from Edward's Point to Rainbow Lake. Here, near the bridge, we picked up the bright orange blazes, once again easy to follow, and made this hike a loop back to the yellow blazes where we had crossed over the orange earlier that morning. This portion is more difficult for footing, several blow downs, and steepness. It also has its own beauty with typical Cumberland Trail geology, dripping water, and the Middle Creek flowing along a good bit of the way. When coming once again to the yellow blazes, we turned right and retraced our steps back to the blue perimeter trail. The flower of the day was the Indian Pink. Also, there were brilliant rhododendron and a few flame azaleas. I appreciate the "troopers" who continued along the rougher section, climbed over the downed trees, and hiked a bit more than the 6+ miles originally intended. Following along the freshly charted territory were: Val Hargis, Maria Lubkowitz, Debbie Lambert, Linda Busby, Bill Kinnaman, Jean Dickinson, Patti Giles, Earline Sonnenburg, Tim Chomyn, Monty Simmons, Gwen Brimer, Trish Appleton, Arlene Swallows, Anna Dennett, Sue LaGraff, Brian Lala, Kathy Seymour, Charlie McCloy (new hiker) and Che Carico reporting.

Thick clouds and a brisk west wind made for pleasant hiking on this mid-May afternoon. We began our hike at the parking area next to the Brushy Creek Bridge along highway 64, but quickly made our way into the thick green forest. Wildflowers (the Mountain Laurel was in full bloom) greeted us many times along the trail and the Cinnamon Ferns made some stretches look like scenes from Jurassic park. We capped our only ascent of the day with lunch and views at Boyd Gap. Thanks to Kathy (or rather Kathy's sunglasses) our brief snippet of sun and blue sky quickly disappeared. After lunch we walked along the Old Copper Road and Rhododendron trails while listening to the sounds of the river and the many cascading tributaries in the area. On the way home we paid homage to Kendra by having a milkshake (at DQ, since Shake Shack was closed). Those enjoying this relaxing jaunt through the forest were Steve Barnes, Kathy Seymour, Pete Connolly, Doug Cooper, and Chris O'Connor (hike leader) reporting.

There is a new section of CT open now from Cain Creek to Stevenson's Branch and Don Deakins and his CT trail building comrades took us on the trail today. The total distance from where the new section begins to Stevenson's Branch and back is 6.2 miles. It is beautifully wooded, has bluff views of the North Chick below, is filled at this time of year with gigantic rhododendron of varying colors, and provides a water fall and rock furniture around a campfire ring for lunch. Also noted on the trail was the bristly locust, a new find for us since the Ace Gap trail. We were able to rock hop across Panther Creek and then used water shoes to ford Cooper Creek. If you should decide to leave your boots on the bank before crossing (only another 200 yards to lunch spot), be sure you put them in a place you will remember!! One of today's hikers was a little confused when searching for boots on the return trip. For a through hike, cars could have been left at the pocket wilderness picnic area at the bottom of the mountain. This trek is 9 miles and would be rated strenuous. So grateful to mark another, not walked by many yet, section of the CT were: Val Hargis, Debbie Lambert, Wayne Chambers, Kathy Seymour, Bob DeHart, Don Deakins, Carole Deakins, Cecile Shenouda, Arlene Swallows, Earline Sonnenburg, new hiker Dean Hutson, Larry Parks, Gwen Brimer, Bill Kinnaman, Pat Patrick, Lou Novakow, Linda Busby, Sharon Hogan, Jane Ellett, and Che Carico reporting.

You will need to make contact with Ranger Andy Wright at 423-886-2951(office) or 423-309-9012 (cell) to gain entrance to the area where this trail begins. For now the road leading to the trailhead has a locked gate. I can give you driving directions to the gate where you can park then walk in to the trailhead. It is .9 mile from locked gate to the parking area for the trailhead and 875 feet from this point down to the trail. 3.1 miles once on the trail to Stevenson's Branch Campsite.

It was time to head to Black Mountain in search of the pink lady slippers we usually find in abundance there this time of year. We were not disappointed as they were blooming all over the top of the mountain and often in clusters! We were also treated to fire pink, trillium, larkspur, one jack and lots of anemone. Don Deakins and 3 of his hikers from the Soddy Daisy area met us but they chose to drive to the top and walk one way, down, with lunch at the cave. These hikers know the trails of the CT so well and we surely enjoy their company even if only briefly today. The trail to the marvelous mountain of rocks on the top is mostly uphill (4 miles up and 4 miles down) with switchbacks for a little relief. It also passes by a refreshingly cool cave (closed at the moment to protect the bats) entrance then the views from the mountain top are so grand! With clear skies and a tad bit chilly temp. lunch was out on the exposed rock at the top. Such a view from here! It is always so much fun for us to take new hikers to our favorite places - and Black Mountain is certainly one of those. When going up Hwy 27 this time of year we call ahead to Papaw’s Produce to order strawberries. They put our order of "picked that morning" strawberries aside in their walk-in cooler and we stopped for them on the way home. Missing some traveling regulars but having a good time anyway were: Debbie Lambert, Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Larry Parks, Wayne Chambers, Lou Novakow, Linda Busby, Monty Simmons, Gwen Brimer, Don Deakins, Anna Dennett, Maria Lubkowitz, Bob DeHart, and Che Carico reporting..

Beautiful day, cool and dry, hike was advertised as 7+ miles, ended up as 10+ miles somehow. Consensus was that the trail along the rapids of Forney Creek in the early afternoon was just gorgeous. We ended the day at the Kephart celebration in Bryson City. Conversations ranged from Wayne's experience with Rent to Own and Prearranged Funeral deals to Larry's "We'll make you a deal on a time share" and other subjects that would not be suitable for publication. Conversation sample: Wayne asked “Larry, did you remember to bring your flash light?” Larry responded curiously “What do I need it for? ". Wayne said "For hiking thru the tunnel on the Trail to Nowhere". Those in attendance were Wayne Chambers, Larry and Rhonda Parks, Kim Van Gundy from Winchester, and Bill Kinnaman, reporter and driver.

Off we went today, following once again in the footsteps of Wayne Chambers, to claim the right to mark Ace Gap on our Smokey’s maps. Muttering just a bit at the early start these Wednesday hikers are not used to, nevertheless we stepped out on the trail a little before 10am. Within 25 feet we came upon may apples and wild geranium which then began an amazing parade of vibrant spring flowers! There were Catsby trillium by the hundreds, an entire bank of fire pink, carpets of dwarf crested iris, and more pink lady slippers than I have ever seen on one trail! Other notables included anemone, phlox, nodding mandarin, birdsfoot violets, coreopsis, larkspur, and for the first time for all of us there was along this trail a bristly locust! Having enjoyed spotting all of these, we hiked to the intersection with Beard Cane trail (Freda Keener has heard that Beard Cane is closed due to terrible tornado damage but there was no signage at this end of the trail to indicate that), then back- tracked to the benches, logs and campsite we had passed for lunch. It was a leisurely lunch filled with laughter and presided over by Reggie and her "queenly" chair! The return trip was uneventful (forecasted scattered rain showers and thunder had not materialized) and as promised Wayne had us back to the cars and back to Ooltewah by 6:30 (suppertime). Tucking away memories of another great hike were: Kathy Seymour, Bill Kinnaman, Debbie Lambert, Reggie Jay, Arlene Swallows, Wayne Chambers, and Che Carico reporting.

Despite a rainy-type of day Saturday, Sunday afternoon was pleasant for hiking, with bright sunshine and mild weather. The trails at Enterprise South were carefully built and had drained very well despite the recent rainstorms. This network of popular trails is a wonderful addition to our local system of parks and greenways. We parked at the visitor center, and right away enjoyed the crackle of water flowing in Poe Creek. The 5.6 mile hike included water/snack breaks at the picnic area near Hidden Lake and on the benches above a small creek. The rolling hike included stretches of shady forest, wildflowers, and a few low hills for good measure. Gathering for our hike were Kendra Cross, Peter Connolly, Wendy Gunn, Patti and Ned Giles, Boodie and Carol Fox, Jutta and Hubertus Meyer as well as their friends and family from Germany, and Chris O'Connor, hike leader reporting.

We knew as we drove to Stone Door that it was going to be a warm day, but as we descended the rocky slope in to the Gulf, it grew muggier and hotter. The group passed Cator Savage Cabin and several suspension bridges, enjoying the wildflowers along the way before stopping for lunch and a cool down by the water at Sawmill Camp. After resting and beginning the climb up to the rim by way of Stagecoach Trail, Bill Kinnaman, our hike leader, made a wise decision based on the effects of the heat, to trek back and stay the night at Sawmill. (Thermometers showed mid-nineties.) We set up camp, collected and purified water, and relaxed before preparing food. The ranger stopped by to check in and let us know there was not much worry about bears, but there were raccoons around, so everyone chose to go ahead and hang their food. The next morning, we broke camp, retraced our trail, and were out of the gorge before one o’clock. Those making the trip were: Bill Kinnaman, Donald Box, Deborah Miles, Joe Teringer, Monty Simmons, and first-time backpacker, Reggie Jay reporting.

Six of us took a walk up Chilhowee mountain on this cool spring morning. The day quickly warmed as we climbed. We had some easy rockhops over small streams, and then reached Benton Falls about 11:30. The falls were full and spectacular. After a snack, we backtracked to the Rimrock Trail, where we descended to Rock Creek. We elected to rock hop this crossing, though one unlucky hiker ended up with a boot full of water. Then we climbed to the Clear Creek Trail. After climbing to the top of this ridge with an unknown name, we lunched with a view of Big Frog Mountain and the Cohutta Wilderness to the south.
There were a few spring wildflowers along the way, including dwarf crested iris, rue anemone, yellowroot, and several kinds of violets. At our last creek crossing, two dexterous hikers managed to walk a tree trunk across the stream. The rest of us put on sandals and waded. Despite the delay caused by the hike leader oversleeping, everyone enjoyed the hike. Those on this trip were Kathy Seymour, Monty Simmons,David McCorkle, Wayne Chambers, Gary Selcer, and Doug Cooper, reporting.

Anything you read about the trails to the Walls of Jericho will warn you about going on a day when rain is in the forecast. The warnings regard flash flooding which will occur quickly and possible entrapment on the "wrong side" of the creek. We went this day anyway with warnings of thunder storms more likely to come through in the afternoon. So John Rowland had us get a head start in order to get ahead of the weather.
All was well as we drove to the trailhead on the Tennessee side - a different approach for us - and which is little longer (1+ miles), but a little bit less steep. Richard Park, Pam Park, Susan Bryant, Monty Simmons, Lou Novakow, Stormy McGauley, Debbie Lambert, Larry Parks, and Wayne Chambers had arrived at the trailhead before the rest of us as we stopped at the Hardee's in Scottsboro to pick up additional hikers. This "death march" group started in as Lou needed to return to Chattanooga by 4:30 and all were uncertain of the time it would take to hike in to the waterfall and cascades and out. Toad Shade Trillium, Blood Root, and a few Phlox dotted the trail as we began. Then as the mountain bottomed out we were met with the amazing site of the forest floor being absolutely covered with Virginia Bluebells - as far as the eye could see! Mixed in were Dutchman's Britches and the already bloomed out leaves of Twin Leaf. Lunch was at the base of the cascades at the end of the trail. New hikers for the trail today climbed up through the rock in order to see the waterfall hidden on the upper level. At this point still no rain and lunch was enjoyed in a leisurely way. Not wanting to press our luck, we finally packed up, recrossed the creek, and began the journey back retracing our steps through the bluebells and up the "less steep" trail out. We were reminded that our leader John learned from the master Boodie Fox that this was a "loop that goes downhill all the way"! Rain caught some of us within ten minutes of the cars but all were prepared. The thunder was a little scary, but everyone made it out safely. Happy to be on the "right side" of the creek when the rain did come were: John Rowland, Jennie Chandler, Sue LeGraff, JD Dickinson, Gwen Brimer, Patti Giles, Trisp Appleton, Val Hargis, Bill Kinnaman, Kathy Seymour, Reggie Jay, Diane Baldwin, Arlene Swallows, and Che Carico reporting.

The destination for this day's hike was the Laurel/Snow Pocket Wilderness in Dayton. I had my grandchildren with me and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches in my pack. My plan was to start out with a rather large group of hikers and then be ready to turn back when Tristan Carico (12 1/2) and Ravyn Carico (11) ran out of steam. I never saw those two, however, as they took the lead with Richard Park and Wayne Chambers and disappeared up the trail. We caught up at the junction of the two trails. Here the group would split up - some going to Laurel Falls and some going to Buzzard Point and Snow Falls (if the creek could be crossed). The children were not tired at this point and nothing would do except follow Richard and Wayne up the mountain to Buzzard Point! Never did they waver in their quest to climb the mountain; neither did the rest of the hikers who had chosen to go this way. Lunch was at Buzzard Point, and then Debbie Lambert led us to the bluff above Snow Falls for a look-see just in case we could not get across the creek for a closer look. We did trek on to where the trail required a creek crossing and most decided not to take off boots and wade the cold fast moving water. Since Tristan and Ravyn were so eager to try the crossing and hike on beyond, Debbie and Richard rolled up their pants, took off their boots (Debbie had some great water shoes and Richard had great bare feet!) and led the children across. They enjoyed every bit of the remaining trail to the waterfall, even walking under it. No I did not go with them, but never feared for their safety with Debbie and Richard. The rest of the hikers on this trail were: Arlene Swallows, Reggie Jay, Linda Gunther, Liz Benton, Earline Sonnenburg, Pat Patrick, Monty Simmons (served great cupcakes at lunch!), Bob Rahn, Larry Parks, Carole Klimesch, and Che Carico. John Rowland led the group that split off to Laurel Falls. We knew there was plenty of water in that waterfall because we could see it so clearly from our trail on the other side of the gorge. These were John's words: "We hiked up to Laurel Falls, noting lots of water and the wonderful sounds related to a full cascading stream. Sure enough, there were several strong and beautiful cascades before we even got to the falls. The falls were just roaring! We admired for a while, then went a little farther on up the trail to have lunch at that small campsite under the bluffs where we had lunched before. "Short hikers" were Cecile Shenouda, Ray Myers, Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Diane Baldwin, Margaret Reisman, Stormy McGauley, Pete Rittenberry, and Kathy Seymour." Both hikes had volumes of rushing water and a few wildflowers in bloom. Che Carico reporting.

It was unseasonably warm as we hiked from the East Overlook, especially with leafless trees not providing shade. We stepped aside for several mountain bikers taking advantage of the weather, then we paused at the intersection with the road to Laurel Point picnic area. Elizabeth went with a couple of hikers who decided to take a shorter route across the dam back to the visitor center, and Chris continued with the rest of our group. Thank you to Donald Box for taking over as sweep! Clouds moved in as our hikers crossed later to the Megawatt Trail, a wonderful ridge trail with views of the Tennessee River.
After another snack break, the group cut over to the road to skip the last climb, in order to keep the hike at 7.8 miles. Enjoying the outdoors were Debbie Summerville, Patti Giles, Doug Cooper, Donna Ruiz, Donald Box, Phil Snider, Glen and Amy Cornelius, LaDonna Lomenick, Kendra Cross, Wendy Gunn, Linda York, Julie Oliver, Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting, and Chris O'Connor, hike leader.

The weatherman was obviously in an excellent mood. We enjoyed a wonderful, blue sky day, with a moderate temperature and a pleasant breeze. We enjoyed lunch on the grounds of the Len Foote Inn. Although the club has actually stayed at the Inn on two occasions, there were some members on this trip who had not been here before. (That included one member who has completed the AT, but started before the Inn was built.) Over the lunch break a number of people in the group took the opportunity to tour the facility. Everyone was impressed with the set up and the views. Although the return trip on the connecter trail and then the AT Approach trail was supposed to be slightly shorter and easier, the general feeling was that this was not actually the case. As expected we met a number of through hikers setting out. A number of these were able to get some advice from the people in our group who have already completed the AT. One courageous lady from New Zealand was starting over again. She had broken her leg last year. Between time in the hospital and then hiking more slowly with a recovering leg, she didn’t finish the trail, so she was back, determined to do the whole trail this time.
Enjoying the pleasant, sunny day on this hike were Bill Kinnaman, Wayne Chambers, Patti and Robert Giles, Boodie and Carol Fox, Gary Selcer, Gale Arden, Jerry Wright, Owen Holbrook, John Rowland and Bob Fanning reporting.

Today some Wednesday (and Saturday) hikers "went rogue" as we followed Wayne Chambers to Townsend and the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains Park. Having passed through rain in Maryville we were less than hopeful for a successful and enjoyable hike. However, at the trailhead the rain had turned to snow and all the usual gear was broken out - toboggans, hand warmers, gators, long johns, extra fleeces, and even Bill put on his Yak Trax. The easy paved trail to Laurel Falls was quickly covered and the falls were absolutely roaring with huge volumes of water. Moving on up the trail the snow deepened and each step required more and more energy. The trail led through a fairyland of snow piled on rhododendron, hemlocks, and pines, while the hoar-frost was beautifully formed on the hardwoods' bare limbs. Wayne led us to the junction with the Cove Mountain Trail where we turned left and walked on up to the tower. This was the end our planned hike and our turn around point. Lunch was a bit chilly in the piled up snow! Those who came today, never imaging such a unique experience, and able to mark another trail on the Smokies map were: Arelene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Reggie Jay, Stormy McGauley, John Rowland, Kathy Seymour, and Che Carico reporting.
Thanks Wayne for making us step out of our normal routine and sharing one of the Smokies trails you love so much!

Today it was off to Little Frog for a wonderful 7.3 mile hike led by our Cherokee National Forest expert Gary Smith. 19 hikers loaded up at the Lee Highway BiLo and drove on to meet Gary at Powerhouse # 3. Leaving one car there we went on to the Rock Creek trail head, later coming off the trail on Dry Pond Lead across the road from the Powerhouse # 3. This trail is rather uphill for the first 3 miles - dips some, but mostly a good workout. There are minor creek crossings on this section before reaching the lunch spot and larger, sometimes troublesome, Rock Creek crossing there. The evergreens and rhododendron become more impressive as you hike downhill to the creek. After crossing, the trail continues along rushing water and sometimes fades a bit in thick vegetation and then uphill to the junction with Dry Pond Lead. Here there is a new trail sign that has already been chewed on by the local bear residents! A left hand turn takes you through more forest, under the power lines, then out to the highway. It is still too early for wildflowers. Trekking today were: Richard Park, Wayne Chambers, Reggie Jay, Debbie Lambert, JD Dickinson, Larry Parks, Lou Novakow, Patti Giles, Cynthia Cowan, Monty Simmons, John Rowland, Diane Baldwin, Cecile Shenouda, Ray Myers, Arlene Swallows, Susan LaGraff, Bill Kinnaman, Gary Smith, and Che Carico, reporting.

Too pretty a day not to hike, or at least to be outside. Several elk were browsing this morning at the edge of the meadow opposite from the new Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Eric and Calvin set up the car shuttle while the rest hiked to the Kephart Prong Shelter. After a break, we continued on the Grassy Branch re-route, a well-placed set of switchbacks to begin our major climb of the day. We encountered patches of snow on the upper section of Grassy Branch, yet took advantage of the dry, grassy spots in the sun at the intersection with Dry Sluice to stop for lunch. Eric and Michelle distributed homemade brownies, while Chris ran up Dry Sluice to tag the 1.3 miles that reaches the A.T. He soon returned, reporting a great deal of ice still on that upper trail. We descended Dry Sluice and most of us detoured to hike to Cabin Flats, a pleasant creek side camping area. All that remained, still under blue skies, was our hike out Bradley Fork to Smokemont. Later, driving through Cherokee, we watched the beautiful herd of elk now grazing next to the road, near the wrong end of the Oconaluftee River Trail! Most of us stopped for dinner at Rib Country. Enjoying a vigorous, beautiful hike were Calvin Watson, Monty Simmons, Wayne Chambers, JD Dickinson, Bill Kinnaman, John Rowland, Tim Chomyn, Chris and Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting, and Michelle and Eric Anderson, hike leader.

Continuing our pursuit of the CT, 32 hikers went into the woods from Retro Hughes Road on the portion of the Rock Creek Trail that Don Deakins led for the River Rocks Festival last October. We discovered a newly graded and partially graveled parking lot with kiosk at the trailhead. The lot, though quite large, was not large enough for all of us so we used the shoulders of the wide graveled access road the trucks use to get onto the Bowaters property. The new lot is great for a normal number of visitors! Richard Park led a small group of gallopers and you can just imagine that the remaining 29 hikers found themselves in a moderately paced group and the ones who came along more slowly, "smelling the roses"! This is a spectacular section with impressive geology, ups and downs, streams and waterfalls, new bridges for tough crossings, pine forest providing soft needles underfoot, overlooks of gorges and soon to be emerging wildflowers. When our trek brought us to the junction with the Rock Crest Loop (just past Boiling Springs) we turned left and climbed to the top of the mountain. Our cars were on Leggett Road near this point, but we turned right and continued on to have our lunches in the sunshine on Leggett Point. It was almost hard to find a seat out there with so many of us. Sharon Hogan thinks we might need to start wearing name tags! Just don't have the heart to limit our participants - and always enjoy adding new faces to our regulars. 9 of our hikers including Don Deakins have worked hard to help mark and build this trail. They are Don, Caroline Woerner, Carol Deakins, Bob DeHart, Anna Dennett, Maria Lubkowitz, Ted Varner and Judy Varner. Wednesday regulars who are enjoying marking the CT with Don and his group are: Cecile Shenouda, Bob Rahn, Trish Appleton, Reggie Jay, Arlene Swallows, John Rowland, Richard Park, Karis Lieb, Monty Simmons, Pete Rittenberry, Larry Parks, Wayne Chambers, Val Hargis, Sharon Hogan, Vicki Armour, Margaret Reisman, Karen Ramsey, Gwen Brimer, Stormy McGauley, Bill Kinnaman, Pat Patrick, Earline Sonnenburg, and Che Carico, reporting.

John Rowland had done some scouting in the Franklin State Forest several weeks ago and today took us there. He had planned a trek that would keep us on the trail about 2.5 hours. There were two groups of hikers numbering 30! We all hiked together 4.9 miles which included Tom Pack Falls, then some continued on for an extra mile and lunch on the trail in the sunshine. 21 hikers planned the shorter walk so they could drive over to Lynchburg for lunch at Mary Bobo's Boarding House. This turned out to be quite a treat as the boarding house food was absolutely delicious and way too plentiful!! That "boarding house reach" yielded fried chicken, pork roast, green beans, fried okra, from scratch mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, "apples with Jack" (Daniels that is), biscuits, and chess pie with whipped cream! Certainly not our usual hiking day food - but I think everyone let down their guard today and pigged out. This is a very special place and we highly recommend you’re going there - reservations required. It took some doing to round up the ladies who escaped up the street to the town square for a little shopping. We should have planned more time for this! Longer hikers were: Bill Kinnaman, Diane Baldwin, Kathy Seymour, JD Dickinson, Larry Parks, Jennie Chandler, Monty Simmons, Cynthia Cowan, and Lou Novakow. Those who hiked short and ate long were: John Rowland, Patti Giles, Trish Appleton, Earlene Sonnenburg, Pat Patrick, Wayne Chambers, Gary Petty, Val Hargis, Margaret Reisman, Karen Ramsey, Vicki Armour, Gwen Brimer, Cecile Shenouda, Richard Park, Stormy McGauley, Ray Myers, Reggie Jay, Bob Rahn, Linda Busby, Arlene Swallows, Patti Giles,and Che Carico, reporting.
We do plan to return to Franklin State Forest to hike and explore the remaining trails there.

Wayne Chambers has been fussing with me that we needed to hike longer distances on Wednesday! So today I "dumped him out" at the parking area in Prentice Cooper where he led some of our hikers along the Mullins Cove Trail to Hemlock Branch campsite. There he met the rest of us who had driven on down Tower Road to enter at the cedar tree, walk to Ransom Hollow Overlook, then on to Hemlock Branch. This section is part of the Pot Point Loop. If you are not familiar with the trails in Prentice Cooper, plan to stop at the ranger station near the fire tower for great maps. Pot Point Loop and Mullins Cove Loop offer diverse vegetation, impressive geology, streams and water crossings, and views upstream and downstream of the Tennessee River and the Tennessee River Gorge. We had a great fire as it was a chilly yet sunny day. Sticks had been carried in along with marshmallows for roasting. After packing up we returned to Tower Road giving the Mullins Cove hikers a chance to also get that little section of the CT. The short hikers (4.2 miles of the CT with some hiking on past Hemlock Branch to the Hemlock Branch overlook) were: Linda Busby, Kathy Seymour, Ray Myers, Arlene Swallows, Earline Sonnenburg, John Rowland, and Che Carico. The long walkers ( 7.8 miles) were: Lou Novakow, Patti Giles, Gary Petty, Monty Simmons, Larry Parks, Wayne Chambers, Bill Kinnaman, JD Dickinson, and Betty Petty. Che Carico reporting.

Although Saturday’s weather in Chattanooga was cold and blustery, Sunday turned out to be a very nice day. Sunshine, temperatures in the 50’s, and a gentle breeze made for ideal hiking conditions as we wandered the mountain bike loop at Booker T. Washington State Park. We walked along the shoreline for about a mile to a point overlooking Chickamauga Lake. From here we could see across the lake to the dam and beyond. After climbing through a cedar forest, we continued with our views of the lake through the leafless trees of winter. We wound our way through the woods and back to the cars to complete our six mile loop. The group decided to forgo the second part of the hike at Harrison Bay (due to poor trail conditions). Enjoying a sunny, lakeside hike were our new friends from Germany Hubertus Meyer, Jutta Meyer, Claas Meyer, Anneke Meyer, Sharon Anderson, Michelle Anderson, and hike leader Chris O’Connor (reporting).

The hikers who didn't cancel due to the rainy, cold Chattanooga weather got to enjoy sunny, dry skies in the Smokies. True, the trails were a bit muddy from snowmelt or previous rain, but 50 degrees in the Smokies after the winter we've had felt wonderful. We climbed Thomas Divide and turned to head down Stone Pile Gap still under some cloud cover, but by the time we started to climb Deeplow Gap, the possible showers hadn't materialized. We stopped for lunch right on the trail, below the gap and protected from the wind. Sitting in the sun, I could have easily napped, but we pushed on after lunch to the Thomas Divide intersection, our highest elevation of the day at 3,700 feet. The wind did pick up, but the trail was clear with only scattered patches of snow evident. Thomas Divide is one of my favorite trails when leaves are down, with views of ridges, valleys, yet rarely another hiker. Rib Country didn't disappoint! Hikers having fun returning to the Smokies today were Wayne Chambers, Bill Kinnaman, Calvin Watson, Eric and Michelle Anderson, and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader.

The Wednesday hikers like to have a list of trails for hiking on days when the weather would prevent driving longer distances and for days when being out through lunch would be uncomfortable. Now we have found another such place - the Enterprise South Natural Area in Brainerd. The conversion of the old Volunteer Ordinance property is amazing! You will find hiking trails, biking trails, a motor drive, historic storage bunkers, wildlife, picnic area by a small lake, a beautiful welcome center, and property to be used in the future for horseback riding! It is also a great place to take family members for an outing in nature that is easy yet quite beautiful. Val Hargis, Trish Appleton, Brian Lala, and Arlene Swallows had been to this area and led our @ 5.5 mile walk (more miles of trail are available for hiking). Also enjoying this Chattanooga jewel were: Gary Petty, Monty Simmons, Gwen Brimer, Gary Smith, Kathy Seymour, Stormy McGauley, Wayne Chambers, Gwen Brimer, Pat Patrick, John Rowland, Vicki Armour, Sharon Hogan, and Che Carico, reporting. Then it was off to lunch at Taco Roc.

Seven hikers met at the Ooltewah Hardee’s, on a spring-like morning and proceeded to the ranger station in Cherokee National Forest. There we were joined another vehicle and then wound our way up the Ocoee Gorge and then on to FS45. The upper roads were still spotty with patches of ice and snow. As we rounded a corner near the Big Frog trailhead we were surprised to see a large cargo truck winding around the narrow mountain road. He was obviously disoriented and after providing some guidance we proceeded to the Wolf Creek trailhead where Don was waiting. There was a pile of blowdown in the parking area and Gary made quick work of chopping it into manageable pieces. After dragging the limbs into the brush we climbed the first uphill section and immediately felt the need to shed some layers. The day was sunny and unseasonably warm for January. The stunted bare trees and general lack of foliage allowed for clear and distant views of North Georgia to the south and Little Frog to the north. The ridgetop trail alternated between level sections and gradual climbs and was perfect for walking. Gary pointed out the trail improvement project that he is gradually digging out as we passed the junction with Grassy Gap trail. As we neared the steep climb to the intersection with the old Chestnut Mtn. Trail the shady side of the mountain trail was slippery and covered with a blanket of wet snow. At the grassy shoulder we ate our lunch and bathed in warm sunshine which was a welcome change to the brisk winter chill. Afterwards the group proceeded back down the ridge to the van. We elected to depart by the Sheeds Creek Road through Sylco and into Ocoee. Those enjoying the balmy weather and sublime views were Karis Lieb, Bill Kinnamon, David McCorkle, Jane Anne Seale, JD Dickinson, Lindy Johnson, Monty Simmons, Don Bodley, Kathy Seymour, Gary Smith and Steve Barnes, reporting.

Hiking up the Kiddie Trail first helped us blunt the chill of temperatures in the 20's. Above Upper Truck we began to see the fresh dusting of snow from two days ago. Only two of us, Donald and Lisa, went up to Sunset Rock and they later said there wasn't as much ice on the rocks as I had feared. I always enjoy the Bluff Trail in winter, with the leaves down, and today was even better; icicles over a foot long hung from the jutting rocks and entire sections of the rock bluff were covered in textured patterns of ice. Our footing was still safe, and further on the Bluff Trail the new dusting of snow mixed with a few leftover piles of crusty snow from almost two weeks ago. Chris and Eric diverted to add on the Jackson Spring side trail while the rest of our group descended to Skyuka Springs. We rejoined Boodie and Gary who had recently hiked the Bluff Trail and chose to hike the other route to Skyuka Springs today. Most of us sat in patches of sunlight for lunch, after which it warmed significantly for our walk back to Reflection Riding. Susan, Donald, and Bill took a hillier route back and we saw them back at the parking lot. Enjoying a (finally!) sunny winter day were Lisa Keown, Gary Selcer, Boodie Fox, Eric and Michelle Anderson, Wayne Chambers, Bill Kinnaman, Ralph Van Pelt, John Rowland, Susan Faidley, Donald Box, Kathy Ryan, Patti and Ned Giles, Chris O'Connor, and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader.

Another great day on the CT with Don Deakins in the lead. Once again we were reminded of just how beautiful our "backyard" is along this wonderful linear state park. With leaves down and rushing water in the streams from recent rains, the typical Cumberland Plateau boulders and bluffs were outstanding. And the mosses were SO green from the recent moisture of the snows! We left cars at the intersection of Hotwater and Sluder Roads, and then drove on to the Mowbray Pike trailhead parking area. The newly built parking area is beautiful, has a kiosk with pictures of the trail, and was sorely needed. This 4.9 mile hike had its ups and downs with narrow sections along the tops of the slag piles in the old mining areas. It crossed Mikel and Little Soddy Creeks and passed through the Little Indian Stone Door. The distance was enough for most today as the clouds and low temperature remained. Wayne, Debbie, and Gary added an extra mile by backtracking and coming out onto Hotwater Road in a different place. Rather than carry lunches on this cold day we hurried off to lunch at warm and delicious Raphael's in Soddy. Today's CT trekers were: Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Vicki Armour, Trish Appleton, Reggie Jay, Wayne Chambers, Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, Val Hargis, Pat Patrick, Gary Petty, Kathy Seymour, Debbie Lambert, Arlene Swallows, Sue LaGraff, Don Deakins, and Che Carico.

Although the weather was expected to be cold and perhaps snowy on Friday and Sunday the forecast for Saturday was for a cool, but partly sunny day. This turned out to be the case, making for an enjoyable day on the trail. (Although there was a cool wind, most of the trail was protected from the wind.) The group stopped at most of the overlooks and basked in the pleasant effect of the sun, wherever possible.
During the course of the hike there was a vigorous discussion of the best choice of BBQ stops for next weeks hike, near Birmingham. One proposal was to have an early lunch at one BBQ, hike 10 miles and then have dinner at another BBQ. Some members of the group were satisfied with completing the loop hike. A number of others took the opportunity to visit one or both of the waterfalls. Because of the recent rains, the flow over both falls was much more than expected for this time of year.
Enjoying the pleasant, sunny day on this hike were Donna Ruiz, Monty Simmons, Bill Kinnaman, Janet Hale, Wayne Chambers, Patti Giles, Chris O”Connor, Eric and Michelle Andersen, Steve Barnes, Betty Petty, Gary Selzer and Bob Fanning reporting.

What a way to begin the new year - enjoying another CT hike led by Don Deakins! We parked cars at the Newby Branch Camp where you will find the trailhead to Piney River. For those who like "carrots" on our hikes, this one has continuous features to lure you along. The first part of today's hike followed the Newby Branch. After 1.1 miles we crossed a road to re-enter the woods and follow the trail along Duskin's Creek. At the Spider Den Bluff sign we turned down the steep portion of the trail to the banks of Duskin Creek. At the base of an ice coated Spider Den Bluff we turned left and walked downstream until we found the campsite. It is here that you will find an amazing rock "table and benches" built by some really strong individuals as the rocks are so large. A fire was in order as it was quite chilly when stopping for lunch. Around the fire pit there are "sofa and easy chair" rocks placed for kicking back and enjoying the warmth. Piney River is a favorite for many and we come to hike it in all seasons. Today's hike helped new hikers who haven't been there log in more CT miles. We will happily return to hike the entire 9.1 mile trail in the spring when the wildflowers are emerging. There are patches available as we accumulate miles on the CT so now everyone is working toward the initial goal of 50 miles. This section netted 6.5 moderate miles. Sprinkled by raindrops at trail's end were: Richard Park, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Kathy Seymour, Bob Rahn, Trish Appleton, Wayne Chambers, Debbie Lambert, Val Hargis, Pat Patrick, Carole and Don Deakins, Bill Kinnaman, Gary Petty, Reggie Jay, Pete Rittenberry, Stormy McGauley, Bobby Wilbanks, Monty Simmons, Arlene Swallows, new for us Tim Chomyn, Jane Ellett, Judy Varner and Che Carico.

On December 23rd, in preparation to leading my 11th consecutive New Year’s Day hike in Prentice Cooper (a tradition inherited from Mary Young who led such hikes for a number of years previously), I scouted the trail, clearing deadfall, and clipping branches, etc. Then about 4 days before the hike the weather forecasters started calling for rain beginning the night before with a 60% of it during New Year’s Day. Then they changed it to 70%, then 80%, then 90%. Then I reluctantly cancelled the hike.
When my alarm went off at 7: New Year’s morning (rather than at 5: as would if I were leading the hike), I reset it for 7:30 and lay there in my warm and comfortable bed listening to the rain and occasional thunder, thinking that canceling the hike was the right decision. Eventually I got out of bed at 7:55. It continued to rain most all day.
I look forward to resuming the tradition next year. – Donald Box reporting

Last updated: 20 January 2011