Reports from the Field

Today was the day for our annual and traditional hike and cleanup of the Pot Point House loop trail with fine lunch to follow! As usual so many "friends and family" hiking club members turned out with work gloves, large garbage bags, and delicious side dishes to go with the Cure 81 ham. Larry's pickup truck was piled high with the filled bags and he and Rhonda graciously took them away after the party to the city garbage disposal unit. Rick Huffines, Hannah Shadrick, and Sarah Quattrochi were our guests as representatives of the Tennessee River Gorge Trust. Rick spoke about his excitement as the new director having replaced our beloved Jim Brown. He has lots of energy, vision, and big plans for which he will ask our help. Gladly we will do so!! The day was so perfect that there was even a table of diners out on the porch of the Pot Point House. Yes there were a few libations and yes there was banana pudding! Having enjoyed the celebration of friendship, the privilege of being in that beautiful place, and the celebration of Christmas, we were promised by Rick a guided hike to the newly uncovered waterfall up under the bluff above us. So looking forward to being out in the woods together in 2014 where we will rejoice in the efforts folks have made who went ahead blazing trails for us. Che Carico

This year's rain has blessed us as our streams and waterfalls are flowing far beyond their season. No disappointment today for return hikers and new to the trail hikers as Daniel Creek was running swiftly and the 3 waterfalls leading up to the splendid ones near the top were powerful. Their spray was frozen on the surrounding tree branches creating a winter wonderland. 27 hikers had started out from the Canyon Gulf Road trail head. The trail is flat at first then begins the steady incline toward the top (including the monster stairs) to finally end in the Cloudland Canyon State Park. As we approached the lower falls they could be seen from the bridge built to ford the fast running Daniel Creek. The trail here became quite frozen and slippery so with caution we walked out onto the viewing platform which was quite slick. Some turned around here to start back down the trail, and some continued upward on the frozen steps and increasingly icy trail. With caution determined hikers made it to the top and actually continued onto the west rim a short distance to visit and inspect the yurts ("cabins" for rent). We will return to this trail in the spring as the wildflowers are splendid. Instructions had been to return to the cars parked at Monty Simmons home near the trail head by 12:30 and then drive back to St. Elmo for hamburgers and fries at Stormy McGauley's son-in-law Eric's new restaurant across the street from the Incline - Slicks. Enjoying GREAT burgers were: Louis Spencer, Trish Appleton, Gwen Brimer, Debbie Lambert, Laura Randich, Sharon Swafford, Bob Rahn, Wendy Gunn, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Tom Carter, Wanda McCarter, Suzanne Dorough, Renee Grace, John Rowland, Patricia Smith, Boe Rudder, Barbara McCollum, Stephanie Richter, Eric Richter, Susan Garrett, Arlene Swallows, Charlie Breeding, Kim Peppers, Susan House, Monty Simmons, and Che Carico.

Che and her team of volunteers again provided a welcoming and festive gathering for our Christmas party at Greenway Farm. Monty Simmons had directed Bill Kinnaman, Gwen Brimer, and Stormy McGauley as they decorated the mantle and set the tables with fresh greenery and tiny white lights. Many hikers won a table centerpiece "poinsettia in a (washed!) hiking boot" as a door prize. I'm still impressed that Che washed all those old boots, surely not an enviable task. As a BBQ aficionado, I vote for pulled pork and beans again next year, alongside our wonderful potluck. Thank you to all who attended for their potluck food items and the table piled high with donations for the Ronald McDonald house, and to Wayne for delivering our contributions. And thanks to Gary we enjoyed a video documentary about Caney Creek village, the former settlement for workers at the powerhouse. Likely we've all driven by that area many times while traveling through the Ocoee. Now we have the history, presented to us by Ron and Debbie Moore, to reflect on as we pass that area. Reported by Elizabeth O'Connor

A cold and blustery morning did not stop our eager hikers from tackling the Brainerd Levee today. Tradition counts for a lot with this group so we walked the 5-mile stretch from the Brainerd Road start to Shallowford Road and back. We ran into two of our group who chose to start opposite the rest of us, but we all ended up together for a warm and delicious breakfast at IHOP. Enjoying the early morning outing were Betty Petty, Joe Teringer, Kendra Cross, Boodie and Carol Fox, Ned Giles, Jane Anne and Bob Seale, Patti Giles reporting.

The morning was damp, misty with the hopefully retreating rain, and fog swirled all around the top of Montlake Mountain. Yes the leaves were wet and rocks slippery but 22 hikers started out at the trail head off of Barker Camp Road. The trail runs along the top of the plateau with views into the deep Chickamauga Gorge. Really pretty today as the clouds were piled up down in the gorge and traced its winding path. The distance to the Stephensen's Branch campsite is 3.78 miles. Not all made it to the campsite as Panther Branch was too high for dry rock hopping. So lunch was there under the huge rock outcroppings. Along the way Charlie Breeding cut many branches as there were at least 4 blow downs. So the trek back was much easier through the pathway he had cut. By the time we were back to the cars the sun was out making the water droplets on the evergreens sparkle. Hiking in and out were: Charlie Breeding, Patti Giles, Trish Appleton, Donald Box, Madelaine Box, Stormy McGauley, Gwen Brimer, Louis Spencer, Larry Parks, Jean Dickinson, Boe Rudder, Wendy Gunn and Che Carico. Wayne led a brave segment of our hikers across Panther's Branch, on to the campsite, then on down the mountain (ups and downs!) to end up at the park entrance to North Chickamauga Creek pocket wilderness. This helped add a rough section to the list of CT trails needed by some. All agreed this is a really tough section as so many rocks to step on, steep climbs, not so secure cable crossing across another creek, and narrow places along the way. Facing the challenge were: Renee Grace, Wanda McCarter, Susan Garrett, Debbie Lambert, Laura Randich, Arlene Swallows, Patricia Smith, Bob Rahn, Suzanne Dorough, and Wayne Chambers.

Who hikes in the Smokies in a heavy mist that Wayne does not call rain? Six Chattanooga hiking club members who had driven all the way to Tremont with expectations of a dry but cloudy day! Covered with rain gear and after placing a car at the Sinks (end of the Meigs Creek Trail) we started the climb up the mountain on the Lumber Ridge Trail. Fog swirled all around and the wet leaves underfoot were fragrant. The evergreens, ferns, and moss stood out through the forest as the hardwood leaves had fallen. As suggested by Jerry Wright, no matter when you come to the Smokies there is always something special to enjoy unless the "temperature is 96 and the bugs are out!" We did sit on the wet ground at the old Huskey Cemetery hastily consuming our lunches with cold fingers. Packing up again and trying to quickly rewarm our hands we then continued on to the Currey Mountain/Meigs Mountain Gap so as not to leave undone a short piece of the Meigs Mountain Trail. After retracing our steps to the Meigs Creek Trail we started down in spite of our knowledge that there would be 18 creek crossings (19 by Wayne's count)! We had even had an additional warning from Eric Anderson as we ran into him at the Currey Mountain Gap along with Michele Anderson and Ralph Van Pelt. At first the crossings were easy rock hops but as we gently descended each crossing became a little more difficult with higher water and fewer well placed rocks for steps. Wayne and Jerry were impressed that "the girls" made each crossing safely. Yes most had wet boots and socks by the time we finished but not too cold to diminish the thrill of accomplishment for this trail. Rhododendron had surrounded us - bright green from the rain (heavy mist!), thick, huge, and perhaps the most treasured gift on this trail today. Sure enough the sun came out by the time we arrived at the Sinks and our car! Dry and happy having dinner at Smoking Joe's in Townsend were: Barbara McCollum, Jerry Wright, Arlene Swallows, Patti Giles, Che Carico, and Wayne Chambers. Che Carico reporting.

Brady Mountain is a section of the CT that is harder than most trails to get because of the lengthy car shuttle required. 24 eager hikers came out this day to follow Don Deakins and indeed mark this one off of the CT trail map. As we are keeping track of CT mileage, many Wednesday hikers have exceeded the 50 miles of trail and 10 hours of trail maintenance required to receive a CT patch. We enjoy watching the gaps fill in for the CT as passionate trail builders (Tony Hook, Don Deakins, CT Varner, Bob DeHart, Caroline Woerner just to name a few) continue to work to see the completion of the planned sections in our area come true. After a steady climb to the top of Brady Mountain from the Jewett Road trail head, the trail levels off to then rock and roll along bluffs and the ridge line with magnificent views of Grassy Cove, Cox Valley and beyond, winds through large rock formations, and then drops off through the forest and through a gullied out road bed back to Highway 68. The distance is 7.8 miles. Features noted along this trail were: Donnelly Overlook, Lost Overlook, the Rock House Complex, Brady Mountain Arch, and the Brady Bluff Overlook. Across highway 68 from trail's end, which has a very informative kiosk filled with information, you can see the new trail head for the Black Mountain section. We look forward to coming back in the spring to take this newly finished trail section which joins the old trail from Windless Cave on to the top where lady slippers can be found in abundance on just the right days. Joyous to be trekking Brady Mountain were: Tom Carter, Renee Grace, Trish Appleton, Jean Dickinson, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Patricia Smith, Linda Busby, Bill Kinnaman, Erik and Stephanie Richter, Suzanne Dorough, Louis Spencer, Patti Giles, Arlene Swallows, Wanda McCarter, Barbara McCollum, Barry Ligon, Madelaine Box, Donald Box, Charlie Breeding, Caroline Woerner, Susan Garrett, Che Carico, and Don Deakins. Che Carico reporting.

A new group of Smokies trail map markers has emerged following in the footsteps of Spears McAllester, Susan Faidley, Wayne Chambers, Jerry Wright, Owen Holbrook, Donald Box, Eric and Michele Anderson, and Elizabeth O'Conner. Led by Wayne (who starts over when he gets a new bunch) the trek today started at the far end of Cade's Cove on the Wet Bottoms Trail to then connect with the Cooper Road Trail. We went up and over several ridges to the Hatcher Mountain Trail, turned left, then turned left again where it came into the Abrams Falls Trail. We took a short break at the waterfall. It was then up and out the Abram's Falls Trail to the intersection with the short Wet Bottoms section which presented with a cold, wide, and deep creek crossing! Wildlife in abundance in Cade's Cove: 3 bears, deer, howling coyotes at dusk, and a very large flock of wild turkeys. We were really glad to see the bear close to the Cade's Cove Loop road to satisfy Laura Radnich who had been looking for a bear all day!
Having encouraged one another in completing this 13.6 mile "stroll" we relaxed with a sit down dinner at Miss Lily's in Townsend. Arriving home rather late were: Wayne Chambers, Bob Butterfield, Jerry Wright, Laura Radnich, Arlene Swallows, Wendy Gunn, Eric Anderson, Janet Hale, Barbara McCollum, Charlie Breeding, John Rowland, Boe Rudder, and Che Carico reporting.

The first 100 days following a bone marrow transplant are critical and the hardest for a recipient. To celebrate this 99th day for Richard Park we enjoyed a hike planned by him and a delicious meal of Shuford's BBQ, slaw, beans, and banana pudding planned and served by his wife Pam. Richard did not hike the entire route with us but shared the beauty of their current mountain retreat. Liza Vannoy led our hike through the leaf strewn woods, up and down and along the Long Branch Creek. The trail sections included: Lula Lake Connector, Pony Girl, Scrawny, Moonshine, Big Slammer, and Southern Boneyard to the pastures above Richard and Pam's cabin. It was an unexpected workout which ended with the delicious food and abundant conversation! Pam's blessing today was a greeting to all, a welcome to all, and an expression of appreciation for all of our concerns, prayers, cards, and emails during their stay in Baltimore. Her concluding prayer was simply well said: "thank you God!" Keeping a distance from Richard so as to prevent spreading germs to him, but basking in the radiant smile on his face were: Val Hargis, Bob Rahn, Charlie Breeding, Wayne Chambers, Margaret Reisman, Carole Klemisch, Faye Farnham, Mac and Teresa Dean (helped with the portage of folding chairs from trailhead to cabin), Trish Appleton, Jennie Chandler, Susan Garrett, John Rowland, Bill Kinnaman, Louis Spencer, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Gwen Brimer, Kathy Seymour, Hank Koningsmark, Nancy Dell Koningsmark, Larry Parks, Stormy McGauley, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Sharon Hogan, Laura Radnich, Vicki Armour, Arlene Swallows, and Che Carico reporting.

The Pot Point House was a happening place on this beautiful, fall morning. As we parked our cars, many more cars were pouring in for a program on trees being held at the house. As chance would have it, I noticed in the newspaper that Bob Butters was leading a hike for Outdoor Chattanooga at the same time and place as ours. So, we joined forces, made some new friends and asked Bob when he could lead a Saturday hike for CHC. Those enjoying the changing leaves and the gentle lap of the river on its banks were Fay Nunez, Bob Butters, Carolyn Perry, Wendy Gunn, Rosalyn Vogel, Ned Giles, Cary Hansel, Mashid Mahdain, John Habecker, Maurice Taslimi, Betty Petty and Patti Giles, reporting.

On the day before Halloween, Mother Nature and the weather treated us to a very enjoyable day on Monteagle. We first made a brief stop at Foster Falls, going to both overlooks. While the falls was disappointingly reduced to a trickle, there were a couple of beautiful red-leafed trees brightening the far side of the gorge from the first overlook. Then we drove on to the main Fiery Gizzard trailhead parking area for the rest of our hiking. We took our usual counterclockwise route around the Day Loop, making the short side trip down to Sycamore Falls. While the water was down somewhat, there was still enough to provide plenty of pretty creek side scenery. And the lower angle of the sun highlighted an abundance of wonderful leaf color as we looked ahead or looked upward at the leaves on a backdrop of blue sky. And after our glorious morning in the woods, most of us adjourned to Papa Ron's in Monteagle to stuff our faces with that marvelous Italian bread and seasoned butter and whatever else we decided to have in addition to that. Appreciative of Mom Nature and the lovely weather, the hikers were Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, Charlie Breeding, Faye and Melvin Nunez, Jack Clayton, Jennie Chandler, Larry Parks, Laura Randich, Renee Grace, Stormy McGauley, Susan Garrett, Tom Carter, Wayne Chambers, Hank Konigsmark, and John Rowland reporting.

A new trail for us! On the property of Cumberland Caverns, this exploring group checked in at the visitor's center then began the 5.5 mile loop, with climbing, up and around Cardwell Mountain. The terrain is typical for the Cumberland Plateau with huge rock formations and sink holes that verify the underground caverns over which we walked. The trail follows the description in Robert Brandt's Middle Tennessee On Foot. His description also includes a story about Aaron Higgenbotham who walked the trail in 1810 and almost did not live to tell about it! Seems he lowered himself into a slit in the rock and found a huge room covered with crystals. As he continued to explore, he let his torch slip from his hands and was then in complete darkness. Three days later friends came looking for him and found his knapsack on the path above the crevice. Wisely he had stayed put when the light went out and they found him alive!

After completing the loop trail, a few hikers ate their lunches at the picnic tables near the parking lot. A few stepped onto the Collins River Trail just to check it out for another day's hike and lunched sitting by the river. Cheerful explorers were: Boe Rudder, Charlie Breeding, Susan Garrett, Mary Ketterer, Melvin Nunez, Faye Nunez, Shirley Wright, Barry Ligon, Beverly Ligon, Wendy Gunn, Gail Stokes, John Rowland, Wayne Chambers, Hank Konigsmark, Karen Ramsey, Margaret Reisman, Renee Grace, and Che Carico reporting.

Another trip to Berry College, this time on a crisp fall day, with hike again led by Barbara McCollum and Patricia McAlpin. The approach to the House of Dreams (retreat home of Martha Berry) was by a different trail up Lavender Mountain. The flowers blooming in the garden at the house were splendid - late summer and fall varieties having replaced the spring and mid-summer flowers we enjoyed on our last trip. Mums were huge and there were late blooming azaleas. This time the house was open and we were able to step back in time on our tour. We also climbed the stone tower in the back yard (66 steps counted by Susan Garrett). Hiking down the mountain we picked up the Long Leaf Pine Trail. This trail features a reclamation effort to reestablish the Long Leaf Pines. Trails here are open to the public so stop by this amazing campus (26,000 acres) when you can. Beginning and ending at the old stone mill were: Patti Giles, Madelaine Box, Donald Box, Bob Rahn, Linda Busby, Susan Garrett, Arlene Swallows, John Rowland, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, John Habecker, Gail Stokes, Gwen Brimer, Charlie Breeding, Laura Radnich, Wendy Gunn, Patricia Smith, Bill Kinnaman, Barbara McCollum, Patricia McAlpin and Che Carico reporting.

On a beautiful, warm sunny fall afternoon we hiked the Starkey Hill Trail, enjoying the variety of open areas, ponds and softwood and hardwood bush, with the fall colors and leaves on the path, making a colorful sight. This trail is a side trail from the Radial Line Trail that connects Guelph to the Bruce Trail. The Guelph Hiking Trail Club opened the radial Line Trail in 1971. Then I took on the job of creating two side trails, including the Starkey Hill Trail. These side trails were opened in 1973, and the Starkey Hill Trail is still being used today, essentially as it was originally laid out. The web site address below provides more information about the Starkey Hill Trail. Participants were Cyrus (Hoss) Baghai and Bob Fanning reporting. Link to trail description: http://guelphhiking.com/starkey/

Several weeks ago the Wednesday hikers hiked this route with clippers and maps in preparation for a River Rocks hike. All Chattanooga Hiking Club trail leaders take the safety of their hikers seriously and we wanted to be absolutely sure of our route and to report any serious blow downs to either the Town of Signal Mountain or the CTC. This day was another spectacular day and we had the blessing of 3 new hikers join the regular Wednesday hikers. We followed the printed Google map for the Bee Branch Loop trail (admiring wooden bridges, long swinging CB bridge, the clear trail blazes and the impressive CT geology). Lunch was at Edward's Point looking off into the beautiful Tennessee River gorge. On the return to Rainbow Lake we found the newly repaired swinging bridge and heaped lots of praise on John Rowland and Louis Spencer for the part they played in the rebuilding! Unlike the Stump Jump event, we did not get into bees' nests although one of our hikers did get one sting. Rejoining the Ohio Avenue trail and returning to the parking lot were: Caroline Woerner, John Rowland, Bob Rahn, Laura Radnich, Nancy Hoover, Trish Appleton, Debbie Lambert, Bill Kinnaman, Arlene Swallows, Barbara McCollum, Boe Rudder, Donald Box, Madelaine Box, Larry Parks, Mott Gammon, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Tom Carter, Wayne Chambers, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Barry Ligon,Wanda McCarter, "new to us" Hank Konigsmark, Priscilla Clayton, and Patricia Smith, and Che Carico reporting.
For maps Google Signal Mountain Trails and that link will have descriptions and opportunity to print a map of any of the trails.

"Who let the dogs out! Who! Who!" On this splendid early fall day we found 2 other large groups of hikers at the Laurel/Snow parking lot. The hikers from Knoxville and the hikers from Sweetwater had hikes planned in the Smokies which were closed as the park is a federal park. In spite of the numbers (@80) we did not run up on each others heels as the Knoxville group was headed to Snow Falls, we took off for Laurel, and the Sweetwater hikers moved a little slower while exploring an area that was new to them. Their leader knows the L/S area so well that he was able to clarify the route Boodie Fox has spoken of for coming off of the mountain from Bryan Overlook to the parking lot and trailhead making a loop. We look forward to exploring this option. There was water in the falls, the creek was low enough to rock hop and the golden rod and asters presented beautiful color. Everyone made it up through the crevice (called Fat Man's Squeeze by Bill Edmondson from Sweetwater) then safely back down after a leisurely lunch on the bluff at the top. We have now laughingly labeled ourselves as AT section hikers and rock climbers! Enjoying this day were: Wayne Chambers, Jenny Chandler, Wanda McCarter, Gwen Brimer, Linda Busby, Kathy Seymour , Louis Spencer, Debbie Lambert, Renee Grace, Bill Kinnaman, Trish Appleton, Boe Rudder, Charlie Breeding, Susan Garrett, Gail Stokes, Shirley Wright, Patricia Smith, John Rowland, Bob Rahn, Barry Ligon, Beverly Ligon, and Che Carico reporting.

It was a perfect crisp fall-colors-just-beginning day in the Smokies for hiking. Our ten-member group was split evenly between uphillers and downhillers. Our uphill group took a collective deep breath and began the climbing right out of the gate at Deep Creek. We emerged onto the spine of Beaugard Ridge at 3.5 miles and sat at the Lonesome Pine (where in the world is the Pine?) Overlook for the first half of lunch amid sweeping clear views. The four guys at the overlook were packing up, and one of them put a 10-pound weight plate in his pack. "We're training cuz we're talking to a recruiter about getting into the Marines," he explained. A bit shy of the trail intersection we chatted with our downhill group and exchanged keys while Tim Chomyn distributed home-made amaretto brownies. Unfortunately, Tim was stung by a yellowjacket soon before that.

After a beautiful, but lengthy, drive up Clingman's Dome Road the downhillers began their journey off the fir covered slopes and into a forest of birch, hickory, chestnut, and maple that was dotted with the early signs of fall. Our sunny day turned cloudy but remained mild and dry. Wayne and Arlene marveled at the giant shelf fungus which had attached itself to several trees along the route. After a leisurely lunch at the Pole Creek trail intersection we continued down the mountain. Our wide, well maintained trail turned briefly into a narrow bushwack, before returning to the forest and a more enjoyable tread. After sampling Tim's brownies we proceeded to the same Pine Overlook as the uphillers. Sure enough...no pine. However, Wayne pointed out that there were multiple varieties of pine growing in a clearing just below the overlook. The view from the overlook was tremendous as the air was unusually clear today and it seemed as though you could reach out and touch Bryson City in the valley below. Undoubtedly slowed by Tim's brownies and arriving at the Deep Creek campground in the golden light of late afternoon were Che Carico, Kendra Cross, Arlene Swallows, Wayne Chambers, and Chris O'Connor reporting.

Our reunited group was mostly ravenous and ate at Monte Alban in Andrews. The next day I idly asked Chris, "I wonder what Monte Alban means." Without hesitation he said, "It's the name of the ruins in the state of Oaxaca," and brought me the atlas of Mexico to prove it! Our uphill group, arriving at our pre-arranged reunion in Andrews 4 minutes AHEAD of the downhill group, included (did I mention that we arrived ahead of the downhillers?...Yes, dear, you did mention that!) Tim Chomyn, Barbara McCollum, John Rowland, Patti Giles, and Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting.

Chattanooga area hikers are always reminded of the great SORBA efforts at trail building when hiking on Raccoon Mountain. Created as bike trails they are also hiking trails with ups and downs, views of the Tennessee River and the gorge, dense canopy, wildlife, a reservoir, designated picnic areas with playgrounds, and wildflowers. There is a system of trails that completely encircles the top of the mountain which make a total of 10 miles of trails with new ones in the planning stages. Today we hiked from two trailheads along the Laurel Point access road, ending the 5 mile and 7.5 mile hikes at the East Overlook. Looking down on the valley and enjoying their lunches were: Gwen Brimer, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Trish Appleton, Boe Rudder, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Melvin and Faye Nunez, Tom Carter, Charlie Breeding, Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, Jennie Chandler, Barbara McCollum, John Rowland, Pat Daniel, Ray Myers, Wanda McCarter, Wendy Gunn, and Che Carico reporting.

This was one of the most beautiful hiking days we have had in this area in a long time. Fall is finally starting to arrive and the temps are a bit cooler, the air a bit clearer and the sunlight a little gentler. We were hiking on the middle section of the John Muir Trail beside the beautiful Hiwassee River. This section of the river is between the Appalachia Dam and the Appalachia Powerhouse so the only water in it is what drains out of the National Forest. The water is piped through a tunnel from the dam to the powerhouse in order to preserve the fall for power generation. Also this section of trail features multiple short steep climbs to a cliff top then back down to the river again. We chose to take the original John Muir Trail in from the Powerhouse for the first mile. The Benton MacKaye reroute from Towee Creek rejoins the John Muir Trail there near the mouth of Wildcat Creek. This mile of trail is currently not being maintained by anyone so we had some obstacles to cross. Owing to the hike leader losing her camera while scrambling under a downed tree in the vicinity of the Wildcat Branch mouth and then needing to backtrack to look for it, we only made it to the mouth of Loss Creek for lunch. Due to time constraints we turned around at this point. Hikers were Bill Kinnaman, Shirley Wright and hike leader Betty Petty reporting.

There are nice trails at Harrison Bay just right for this time of year - "short but sweet!" Our favorite begins in the upper parking lot at the marina and follows a route out onto a peninsula and almost always beside the lake. Ducks and turtles are the usual wildlife noted along with golden rod, daisies, and blue asters which decorate our forests at this time of year. After hiking this loop we moved cars over to the parking lot above the pool and walked down the road a short way to a one mile nature trail that also leads to the group camp. Then on to the end of the main road which dead ends at a point and where we found enough picnic tables to service our crowd! There is also another little loop trail right there near the picnic tables that also stays by the lake. Enjoying another of our hiking resources were: Patti Giles, Barbara McCollum, Suzanne Dorough, Madelaine and Donald Box, Linda Busby, Stormy McGauley, Jennie Chandler, Beth Jones, Ray Myers, Wendy Gunn, Bob Rahn, Bill Kinnaman, Larry Parks, Boe Rudder, Susan Garrett, John Rowland, Tom Carter, Wanda McCarter, Gail Stokes, Louis Spencer, Trish Appleton, John Dever, and Che Carico reporting.

A group of 7 hikers left from the Ooltewah Hardees’, and found our way to the Wolf Ridge Trailhead in the Cherokee National Forest. Due to the seemingly never ending rockslides and a recent one within the month, we encountered a new stoplight in the middle of the Ocoee Gorge. Nevertheless the riverside drive was pleasant and inviting. It was sunny and warm but not excessively hot. As we passed the No. 3 Powerhouse and drove up FS45 we encountered a flock of a dozen or more juvenile wild turkeys. They didn’t know whether to run uphill or down and couldn’t get airborne in the close quarters but they eventually fled into the roadside cover. We parked and proceeded upward toward the Big Frog summit. With the morning sunshine, the uphill climb was a little warm and the initial section was close with the new growth due to a wet summer. As noted by JD, this trail is in need of some tender loving care from a maintenance crew. We agreed to talk to Steve B. of the USFS about a future maintenance trip. Once we were on the ridge top the trail widened and we were treated to some distant views of the Cohutta NF which is always a pleasure from the ridge-top perspective. Arriving at our destination at the Chestnut Mountain Trail intersection we enjoyed a brief snack. Afterwards we descended leisurely back down the ridge to the van. We observed a few touch-me-nots on the trailside and dug up an aromatic sassafras root. Patti attracted a number of flying insects but Bill was thankfully able to avoid the late summer yellow jackets. The group consisted of Shirley Wright, Jean Dickinson, Patti Giles, Bill Kinnaman, and guests – Marissa Sabillon and Art Dees……plus Steve Barnes reporting.

River Rocks will be coming around again in October, so today the 27 Wednesday hikers followed along the route we have planned for our River Rocks Wednesday hike. The plan was to groom lightly as we familiarized ourselves with the trail. Some had hand clippers and John reported he cut 3 trees with his trusty saw. The map for this route is clear and can be acquired by googling Signal Mountain Trails - Rainbow Lake/Bee Branch. Starting out at Ohio Avenue Rainbow Lake Trailhead, we then passed the downward turn and continued on the Bee Branch Trail. You cross over Bee Branch on a fixed wooden bridge and Middle Creek on a swinging bridge - the CB Bridge. After crossing the CB bridge we then turned left and followed Middle Creek to the Rainbow Lake swinging bridge that was demolished by a large tree washed downstream during the heavy July rains. It is in the process of being repaired. At this point we stepped onto the CT and followed the white blazes to Edward's Point for a leisurely lunch perched on that great rock and enjoying the incredible view of the gorge. As we retraced our steps, we found we could easily rock hop the Middle Creek and then complete the Bee Branch loop by hiking up to access again the Rainbow Lake Trail back to Ohio Avenue. Lessons were learned today - the map is VERY clear - just need to look at it! Now we are ready if we have new hikers join us on this trail in October during River Rocks festival. Out having fun and working just a bit were: Susan Garrett, Louis Spencer, John Rowland, Sharon Swafford, Arlene Swallows, Trish Appleton, Gwen Brimer, Debbie Lambert, Boe Rudder, Renee Grace, Ray Myers, Jennie Chandler, Stormy McGauley, Tim Chomyn, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Laura Radnich, Linda Busby, Charlie Breeding, Jean Dickinson, Bill Kinnaman, Bob Rahn, John Haebecker, Patti Giles, Tom Carter, Wayne Chambers, Wendy Gunn, and Che Carico reporting.

Thirteen eager hikers started the Labor Day weekend with a hike to Glen Falls, an in-town treasure, on the side of Lookout Mountain. A confused Ruby Falls parking attendant was seen scratching his head as several of our cars went the "wrong way" to park close to the trail head. We found plenty of water in the falls to cool our feet and sweaty brows. In route, we stirred up a yellow jacket nest; several hikers were stung as a result. Pleased, despite dodging yellow jackets, were: Shirley Wright, Marissa Sabillon, Bill Kinnaman, Monty Simmons, Boodie Fox, Rick Wade, Elizabeth and Chris O'Connor, Ned Giles, Merry and Diehl Boggs, LaDonna Lomenick and Patti Giles reporting.

Hikers bound for 14+ miles found themselves following Wayne Chambers up to the summit of Max Patch to then access the AT for a hike back to Standing Bear Farm . This was after an adventurous shuttle in the van from the hostel, up and around a winding mountain road, with a sudden stop for the passage of a mama bear and two cubs. Curtis (owner of hostel and the driver) and the men in the van had to cover their ears as we girls screamed so loudly at the sight of the bears! Don't know why as we were at a safe distance and inside the van. It was overcast so we did not get to see the famous view from Max Patch, but set off with good cheer on the AT headed to Snowbird Mountain. All was well as we "rock and rolled" to the base of the mountain, then it was uphill for 3 miles, a bit past our normal lunch time (we wanted to eat on the top), and with temps beginning to climb. These wilderness comrades had to encourage, share rations, and apply some common sense suggestions for overheating. But after regrouping in the shade of the woods rimming the exposed top of Snowbird, all began the 4 mile trek downhill to the end of our section. This did not prove so easy as toes "banged" and knees began to protest. Needed to report 3 snake sightings (no screaming here), prolific sunflowers, yellow fringed orchid, the berries of Solomon’s seal, the berries of the bluebead lily, spider wort, squaw root in "fields", unusual mushroom shapes and colors, touch-me-nots , and Indian pipe. There has been talk of a patch for 14ers so let Wayne know if you want to pursue this as a goal for a patch. He will certainly help you achieve this goal! First time for 14 miles today were: Arlene, Che, Susan, Sharon, and Barbara. Greeted at the end of the trail by our new friends Curtis and Rocket, and two baying hound dogs were: Wayne Chambers, Reggie Jay, Arlene Swallows, Elizabeth O'Conner, John Hyler, Tim Nicholson, Susan Garrett, Sharon Swafford, Barbara McCollum, Patricia McAlpin, and Che Carico reporting.

After doing this hike in high humidity and low 80's temperature I think any future hikes should be relegated to a spring wild flower hike or a fall leaf hike. It was pretty draining. I checked with the Tellico ranger station today and with Rick Harris. Rick has walked Henderson Mountain either with the maintenance crew or hiking a number of times. They confirm that the total trail is about 6.25 miles. It seemed like 9 miles. My GPS had 8.25. It took 5.33 hours of walking time to finish the hike. I checked a couple of other map sources and all agree with the distance. Rick confirmed that they plan to put switchbacks in the upper part of Panther Branch and to work on the many water crossing on the lower end. It is currently the steepest climb in the Cherokee Forest. There was plenty of bear scat on Henderson Mountain, ranging from recent to several days old.
Including myself we had nine hikers. - Donald & Madelaine Box, Wanda McCarter, Tom Carter, Suzanne Dorough, Renee Grace, Laura Randich and Larry Parks.
They can now say they have done one of the harder and least traveled trails in the Cherokee National Forest. I am going to show it as 8.25 miles in my log. Hike leader Boe Rudder reporting.

There were nine people on hike including myself. I learned that one should always check the trail before hiking, even on one has done it more than 50 times. Boulder Trail has been re-routed in the week since I last walked it. I was confused about where to cross over to Dogwood Ridge and had to bushwhack to find the trail. Bill missed the crossover and walked on around the wrong trail. It was a fast and humid hike. Boe Rudder reporting.

What a surprise to find many who came out for this hike had never hiked this trail before! We met at the visitor's center at Point Park, organized a shuttle, and drove to the Ochs Gateway trail head on road below the Covenant College campus on Lookout Mountain. This is an easy to moderate trail of 4.7 miles and could easily be hiked from one end to the other and back eliminating the shuttle. Spring flowers were long gone, but the trail was decorated with jewel weed, spider wort, yellow daises, the fragrance of sweet shrub, pale touch-me-not (also in the jewel weed family), and many colors and shapes of mushrooms. We took a nice break below Sunset Rock which is the rock climbing area on the bluff. 5 hikers continued on the Mountain Beautiful Trail to get in some extra miles. They found the trail remains in terrible shape (totally washed out in places) after the rock slide last year. They did make it around the washout, but do not recommend for future hikes until the trail has been rebuilt. Finishing up with lunch at the Mountain Cafe were: Jennie Chandler, Anne Huckaba, Connelly Ensign, Bill Kinnaman, Sharon Swafford, Bob Rahn, Patti Giles, Linda Busby, Gwen Brimer, Louis Spencer, Debbie Lambert, John Dever, Trish Appleton, Boe Rudder, John Rowland, Wanda McCarter, Suzanne Dorough, Arlene Swallows, Renee Grace, Wendy Gunn, Jean Dickinson, Sue Christensen, Che Carico. Trekking on and lunching on the trail were: John Hyler, Wayne Chambers, Barbara McCollum, Elizabeth O'Conner, and Larry Parks. Che Carico reporting.

Several of our hikers opted out of driving to the Smokies with a rainy forecast, so we'll try to get to the Smokies next month! Today we hiked on Lookout Mountain under overcast skies with an unheard of August high of only 73 degrees. The Upper Truck Trail responded to the rainy summer with a burst of vegetation, resulting in narrowing of the trail to single-track in several places, and so a much more interesting hike than the regular gravel road. Ralph and Chris retraced their steps from the intersection with the Skyuka Springs trail, while the rest of us hiked up to the Bluff trail to return to Craven's House that way. Royal purple was the color on display in spiderwort and ironweed, and we also saw jewelweed, goldenrod, and morning glory. Boy Scouts ran past us on the Bluff trail, imitating the trail runners that had flown by us. Enjoying a hike (not a run!) were Betty Petty, Monty Simmons, Ralph Van Pelt, Chris and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader.

This trip to the Hiwassee has become an annual event. Some raft, some hike, and all eat a great picnic featuring hot dogs grilled on the spot by Bill Kinnaman. Everyone brings something to contribute to the wonderful meal enjoyed at picnic tables at the Big Bend picnic area along the river. The rafters and their "duckies" were put into the water upstream from this site by Webb Brothers Outfitters and they floated down, pulled out of the water, and enjoyed the meal preparations already made by the hikers. With the plentiful rain this year, the river was running higher than usual and the floaters encountered fewer rocks to impede their progress. Surely a few new river rats were born on this day! Enjoying the perfect summer day with a balance of sunshine and the shade of clouds were: Wanda McCarter, Suzanne Dorough, Elizabeth O'Conner, Sue Christensen, Bill Kinnaman, Larry Parks, Connelly Ensign, Wayne Chambers, Ray Myers, Margaret Reisman, Gwen Brimer, Donald Box, Madelaine Box, Betty Petty, Patti Giles, Reggie Jay, Barbara McCollum, John Haebecker, Patricia Daniel, Susan Garrett, Bob Rahn, Nancy Hoover, John Rowland, Charlie Breeding, Laura Radnich, Renee Grace, Becky Browder, Arlene Swallows, Patricia McAlpin, Boe Rudder, and Che Carico reporting.

We huddled on the porch of the ranger station at Savage Gulf as rain poured down and thunder rumbled in the distance. Many had their smart phones out, looking at the radar for any sign of improvement. Finally Wayne said "let's go!" so 20 of us stepped off the porch and trooped out into the rain coming down and the water running underfoot like a small river. The only sure thing the ranger had to say was "you will get wet". After the first mile the valiant hikers were polled and all were found to be wet but "cheerful"! With this attitude we decided to continue onto the loop, hiking counterclockwise so we would cover every inch of the loop including the spur off to the falls. The falls were running vigorously as this month of July has had unusual rainfall. Our break at the falls was brief since the rain really had not let up much so far. As we finished the last mile back to the ranger station the pace picked up with the lure of a great lunch at the Cookie Jar in Dunlap. Though we all had some form of rain gear, all of us were wet! Drying off and enjoying lunch as the weather began to improve were: Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Donald Box, Madelaine Box, John Rowland, Laura Radnich, Renee Grace, Sue Christensen, Susan Garrett, Pat Daniel, Anne Huckaba, Amy Wright, Shirley Wright, Wayne Chambers, Louis Spencer, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Gwen Brimer, Susan Garrett, and Che Carico reporting.
PS We were to have hiked today with friends from Soddy Daisy but they had the good sense not to risk the lightening that could have so easily passed over us!

Berry College was founded in 1902 by Martha Berry and boasts the largest college campus in the world - 26,000 acres. Many of the buildings are historic as some are original log cabin structures and many were built (with interest and input from Henry Ford) in the European gothic style with great halls and towering spires. There are groomed acres and wilderness acres which lend a mixed setting for recreation of all kinds to include hanging in a hammock in a tree, biking, soccer, horseback riding, picnics, gentle walking among abundant deer, rigorous hiking, etc. On this day we were privileged to be led on an 8 mile hike by Barbara McCollum and Patricia McAlpin, our new hiking friends from Rome. The first part of our hike was up Lavender Mountain to its summit where Martha Berry's retreat home (The House O' Dreams) sits among beautifully landscaped gardens. At this site there is also an American Chestnut recovery project underway. After lunching there we began our walk down, through the woods, past the isolated reservoir/lake and the Old Mill where the wheel was turning, water was spilling over, and the grinding wheel was found to be in perfect working order. During the October festival which is called Mountain Day (an annual celebration of Martha Berry's birthday) this mill will indeed be grinding and making cornmeal! Since we could not take it all in today we plan to return in the fall. Joyfully enjoying frozen yogurt at Jandy's before retuning home were: Larry Parks, Wanda McCarter, Patti Giles, Wayne Chambers, Sue Christensen, Debbie Lambert, Melvin Nunez, Faye Nunez, Louis Spencer, Suzanne Dorough, Bill Kinnaman, Boe Rudder, Renee Grace, Tim Chomyn, Charlie Breeding, Gwen Brimer, Nancy Hoover, John Rowland, John Habecker, Teresa Dean, Barbara McCollum, John Hyler, Trish Appleton, Patricia McAlpin, and Che Carico reporting.

July 20th was a good day for hiking. And Jack's River area in the Cohutta Wilderness was a great spot for this activity. We began at Beach Bottom trailhead and hiked about 3 miles to the River. The trail is wide and well traveled which makes for a fairly easy walk. The water level was higher than normal, so the group opted not to cross or hike upstream to Uncle Ned's favorite lunch spot. Thus, we headed downstream to the falls.
At the falls, we visited with a ranger who was also recruiting volunteers for trail maintenance. He was delighted to hear that our club hiked in the area. The cold water felt good on the feet as we enjoyed our lunch.
From this hike leader's point of view, these trips always offer a good opportunity to explore new areas, see beautiful scenery, meet new friends and have good conversations. We did not see many wildflowers, but spotted 8-10 varieties of mushrooms, including the edible orange peel (which no one ventured to eat).
Enjoying this day of hiking was Merry and Diehl Boggs, Cheryl Larsen, Patti and Ned Giles reporting.

2013 will likely be a record year for rainfall in our area. Waterfalls are running full and strong in July which is unusual. The Wednesday hikes in July will be to some of our favorites which will be morning only hikes as temps and humidity are soaring. Glenn Falls (a typical high mountain waterfall) is on the East side of Lookout Mountain and can be splendid after a good rain. We began today at Ruby Falls (the lower parking lot), hiked the Guild Trail to Whiteside, turned right onto Whiteside, climbed the mountain, and emerged on Sanders Road. At this point the trail "invisibly" went up the paved road access into the picnic area and became a foot path (Shingle Trail) again at the back left corner of the public bathhouse. On this section there is one split in the trail where you might make a mistake - take the left fork where there is a pile of stones. The next landmark will be Ochs Highway which must be crossed and carefully walked "uphill" on the shoulder until you find the kiosk and pick up the Glenn Falls trail. From here it is .9 miles to the waterfall area. Be sure and cross over the wooden bridge then climb the rock steps and pass through a narrow cave. From here the trail runs alongside a creek until it dead ends near but beneath the highway. There are lots of flat rocks along the creek for sitting and enjoying this "in town" jewel. Pleased with this short but sweet hike were: John Rowland (looking forward to lunch after at the Purple Daisy and their banana pudding!) Patti Giles, Renee Grace, Tim Chomyn, Tausha Plate, Suzanne Dorough, Charlie Breeding, Larry Parks, Melvin Nunez, Faye Nunez, Arlene Swallows, Sue Christensen, Gwen Brimer, Bob Rahn, Shirley Wright, Amy Wright, John Habecker, Louis Spencer, Wendy Gunn, Barbara McCollum, Nancy Hoover, Diehl Boggs, Robert Boggs, Bill Kinnaman for lunch, and Che Carico reporting

It was already raining a little; we didn't care. There were storms predicted for early afternoon; we still didn't care. It had already been raining for days and eleven crazy hikers had a bad case of cabin fever! So, off we went up the Guild Trail on Lookout Mountain. After crossing Och's Highway, we enjoyed an uneventful walk along the trail catching up with folks we hadn't seen in a while and sharing hiking stories with each other. By the time we reached Craven's House, we were all ready to take our rain gear off for a few minutes and enjoy a break on the porch. John gave a nice description of the view overlooking the city, that we couldn't see due to the dense fog. We still enjoyed it! A park maintenance worker happened to stop by to check on things and was kind enough to unlock the restrooms and even opened the rooms downstairs where the former slaves lived. He was a very nice gentleman and quite informative. After our brief tour, we were ready to get back on the trail so we could make it back to the parking area before the storms arrived. With the exception of one fairly hard down pour, the rain wasn't too bad; none the less, we were all still soaked by the time we reached our cars. The rainy day hikers were Che Carico, Pat Daniel, Tom Smith, Arlene Swallows, Wendy Gunn, Monty Simmons, John Rowland, Patti Giles, Brianna Bilbrey and Haley Peters. Hike leader Kendra Cross reporting.

Summer 2013 will be remembered for its rain! Today, in the middle of an extreme week, we managed to get in a 4+ mile hike on Signal Mountain. The rain held off as 12 daring hikers met and embarked on this trail that encircles the school and recreation property of Shackleford Ridge. The trail is clearly marked with blue blazes. There is a spur to Mushroom Rock and Ginnie Harris led most of the hikers to this amazing geological feature. She accurately knows the history of the rock, how it came to appear as a huge mushroom on top of the mountain, and she became our instructor! The blue blazed trail still has a good bit of gravel and so mud was not an aggravation. After completing this fairly easy but beautifully woodsy trail, we met Sam Powell back at the parking area at the soccer fields. Here he pointed out the American Chestnut that is being successfully cross-pollinated by Hill Craddock as the efforts continue to bring back a blight resistant hybrid. There are saplings surrounded by fencing up the hill from this tree and near the pavilion. Their success in reaching maturity will be slow to determine! Our hike experience today was enhanced by the knowledge shared by Ginnie and Sam. Off to enjoy lunch at Ayala's deck (and while here the rains did come!) were: Sue Christensen, Trish Appleton, Susan Garrett, Charlie Breeding, Louis Spencer, Arlene Swallows, Patti Giles, Bill Kinnaman, Renee Grace, Tom Carter, Ginnie Harris, Sam Powell, and Che Carico reporting.

After tackling a chunk of the Pennsylvania A.T. last summer, Kurt (Horse With No Name) and Elizabeth (Captain Eli) headed further north and began this year's backpack in North Adams, Massachusetts. We soon hiked into Vermont, where the A.T. coincides with the Long Trail for many miles. This far north, in June, thru-hikers were rare but biting bugs were not (sigh). Kurt began the trip a few days before me and said when he read about his upcoming climb of Mt. Greylock, the trail was described as "aggressive". I immediately applied that term to all of Kurt's backpacks: Aggressive!! Those of you who have hiked the Vermont A.T. know it is tough-rock scrambles, roots, mud, bogs, did I mention the rocks and mud? This made for careful navigation of the trail; alas, I bent one of my new hiking poles in the rocks, but better that than an injury. Kurt's hiking poles were stolen at Woodford State Park, where we stayed during a car shuttle. That was so disappointing, because the people were otherwise very friendly; Kurt replaced his staffs with used ski poles, the best available substitute.
After passing some Boy Scouts on the climb up Glastenbury Mountain, I collapsed at our tentsite whille Kurt climbed the fire tower. He was treated by other sunset-watchers on the tower to berry shortcake. I missed it! I was treated the next day to seeing yellow bead lilies on our descent. There was a lone moose atop Stratton Mountain. We had to wait for it to wander off the A.T. so we could continue. I also saw a fairly rare bog turtle, as well as the much-anticipated Shelter-at-the-end-of-a-long-hike-in-the-rain. Kurt dutifully tented, but I snuggled up in the dry Spruce Peak Shelter, and again in the Peru Peak Shelter following afternoon thunderstorms. Horse Needs No Rest snagged over 105 miles of A.T. in about 8 days; Captain Asleep On Her Feet bagged 76 hard-earned miles in 5.5 days. Looking forward to our next adventure, Kurt Emmanuele and Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting.

Two hiking club members and Ron, our unsuspecting friend from Florida, trekked for over a week on the beautiful A.T. near the Blue Ridge Parkway. We were in the thick of the thru-hikers and enjoyed talking with them during our dayhikes.
Ron (Figment) was transfixed by the beauty of undulating fields of tall grass as we ate lunch on Cold Mountain one day in a cool breeze. Chris (Old Bird) is a light sleeper and was leaning against the car one night at the Shenandoah Lake Campground trying to meditate his way back to peacefulness, despite our loud neighbors. In deep thought, he sensed something...gazing over his shoulder in the dark, he saw by moonlight a bear ten feet away gazing back at him. The bear ambled off, giving Chris something else to think about!
Elizabeth (Little Rabbit) chose Spy Rock as the prime kick-back-for-a-while spot. Resting on the wide expanse of rock, while most hikers gazed at the view, I was fascinated to find tadpoles swimming in puddles of water in depressions of the rock. Chris and I were impressed but not surprised (we knew about Ron's triathlon training!) as our flatlander friend powered up climbs, especially the ascent from Tye River. Like so many of us, Ron has the A.T. bug now and is eager to do another section hike. Our 90 miles on the Virginia A.T. prepared me well (or so I hoped!) for backpacking with Kurt a few days hence. Experiencing the A.T.'s magic and the deep purple spiderwort and Hawaiian pizza in Glasgow were Ron Hall, Chris and Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting.

We departed Ooltewah and drove to the Gee Creek parking area at the base of Starr Mountain. The day was sunny and pleasant as we headed up the rocky forest road toward the Creek. There was an abundance of no-see-ums and mosquitoes but that is to be expected in mid-June. What wasn’t typical for the early summer is the mountain streams flowing fast and high up on the banks. We traversed the bridge and strolled up the lush Gee Creek cove which is dense with rhododendron, white pine and hemlock. After arriving at the first crossing it was obvious that we weren’t going to ford the stream without major difficulty. We elected to turn back but enjoyed the shady stroll and the sound of the torrent flowing alongside. Hikers included Tom Smith, Lindy Johnson, Boe Rudder, Bill Kinnaman, and Steve Barnes reporting.

We left pretty early Wednesday morning and made it to Johnson City for lunch on the patio at Panera Bread. We then drove up to Rhododendron Gardens, but were disappointed to see that the peak blossoms were maybe a week away yet. It was a pretty day, though, and we could see several mountain ranges off in the distance from the apparently recently rebuilt viewing platform. But we did hike down to the nearby highest shelter on the AT, led by Wayne. Then we spent some time at Carver's Gap admiring the better rhododendron blossoms that we found there. That evening we had a very memorable dinner experience at Cootie Brown's in Johnson City - highly recommended! Next day we hiked Little Hump and Big Hump on the AT on the TN/NC border. Half of us went all the way to US19E to the north, while the rest of us returned the way we came and picked up the others on our way home. Despite some of us perhaps trying to scare some newcomers with the difficulty of the hike, everybody made it without any real problem, and some even admitted that it wasn't all as bad as the pictures looked. But newcomers and those with previous experience alike, everybody seemed to agree that this is a unique place that provides a wonderful feeling that is hard to replicate anywhere else. The views are great, the feeling of openness and freedom are palpable. And we saw several buds of the rare Gray's Lily, plus a couple fully in bloom! The sometimes apprehensive but ultimately very happy hikers were Che Carico, Debbie Lambert, Barbara McCollum, Pat McAlpin, Arlene Swallows, Nancy Hoover, Wayne Chambers, John Hyler, Tim Nicholson, Jimmy Ross our most welcome guest from Johnson City, and John Rowland reporting.

Stepping onto this trail was the first time this year that we felt the air heavy with humidity. The forecast was for heat index in triple digits, but off we went with Tim Chomyn in the lead. Heavy rain on Monday led us to believe there would be water in the falls which can sometimes have very little. Such was the case! But Tim had us get the climbing over with first so up the mountain we went. This is a beautiful trail and its short distance was perfect for a very warm day. Upon reaching the top of John's Mountain we enjoyed the overlook into Alabama as we were cooled off a bit by the breeze up there. The reward for the climb was a trail rather flat along the top of the mountain. Then it was back down to the level of the waterfalls which did indeed have a pretty good flow. This was a cool spot, hollowed out and cave like, for enjoying a lengthy water break. Next was some rugged terrain and a brief uphill climb again, but soon we knew we were headed down and back to the park at the trailhead. So for a good 5.2 mile workout try this sequence in North Georgia! Hardy folks out on this hot day were: Stormy McGauley, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Tony Cook, Gwen Brimer, Shirley Wright, Amy Wright, Arlene Swallows, Patti Giles, Renee Grace, Tim Chomyn, Charlie Breeding, Bill Kinnaman, Gail Stokes, John Rowland, Sharon Swafford, Sue Christensen, Wendy Gunn, and Che Carico reporting.

Summer with its heat and humidity was evident today as we began our hike at the trailhead/parking lot on Hwy 30 just off of 64. This first leg of the trek is the 1.4 mile Clemmer Spur. Look carefully for this trail as it is a narrow footpath branching off to the right as the service road (Clemmer) bears left. The spur dead ends at the Clear Creek trail where we turned left and headed up the mountain. This section is also used by mountain bikers which is hard to believe as it is steep and rough. At the junction with the Rim Rock (1 mile) trail we turned downhill, rock hopped the creek and hiked uphill once again to then intersect with the Clemmer Trail. Turning right our destination was Benton Falls and the comfy rocks for lunch seating and foot soaking! Noted in bloom were Mountain Laurel, some Rhododendron, galax with its tall white plumes, phlox, two faded lady slippers and most notable the Flame Azaleas! The last leg of the hike was the Clemmer down the mountain with some diverting and exploring the Rim Rock Spur. Perhaps to the spur is where the trail will be built coming branches from the trees as a premonition of the storm soon to hit. Driving home up from Rainbow and Rattlesnake Falls far below. The cooler was stocked with ice cold beverages and surely appreciated. The last man was off the trail just before the big storm coming from the west and through the gorge hit. Strong winds were breaking safely in the rain were: Patti Giles, Boe Rudder, Larry Parks, Bill Kinnaman, Gwen Brimer, Sue Christensen, Suzanne Dorough, Tim Chomyn, Diehl Boggs, Shirley Wright, Bob Rahn, Charlie Breeding, Wendy Gunn, Arlene Swallows, Wanda McCarter, Barbara McCallum, John Rowland, Susan Garrett, Che Carico reporting.

PS: The online maps get better and better! Be sure and download the newest one for the Chilhowie Trail System. It is colorful and has a clear legend for the listed trails.

The CHC and a number of regional hiking clubs participated in the Trails Day event sponsored by Tennessee Wild, Southern Appalachian Wilderness Society, and the Ocoee/Hiwassee Ranger District on June 1st. A total of 35 individuals participated in Pulaski work on a warm but pleasant day. The work focused on trail reconstruction and dip maintenance of the John Muir Trail from the mouth of Coker Creek to Hwy 68. Steve Biatowas of the USFS did his usual fine job of planning and the team accomplished something like 1700 ft of trail reconstruction and the repair/restoration of quite a number of dips. Bill took the lead on relocating one dip that was in poor shape and helped to rehab several others. As an aside and watchout, several workers ahead of the reporter walked over a copperhead on the trail edge before it captured my undivided attention. CHC participants included Bill Kinnaman and Steve Barnes, reporting.

It was a beautiful, but warm, morning when twelve of us left Bi Lo parking lot to head to Lula Lake. Several in the group had never been to Lula Lake and were looking forward to seeing the sights for the first time. As hike leader, I was still wondering what route I was going to take since the bridge had been washed out during severe rain storms a few weeks earlier. We walked along the old rail road bed to the bridge and took a break so several members of the group could make a quick "pit stop". We had to wait several minutes, which turned out to be a good thing since one more individual who had signed up for the hike, but had not seen us at the Bi Lo, caught up with us. Once we were all re-grouped, we began our assent up to the Jedi Trail, which is just below the Bluff Road trail. This trail provides a nice, fairly level walk in the woods, and runs parallel to the Bluff Road trail. MaryBeth, Misti and Tausha, were full of vigor that day, so when we reached the intersection of the Jedi and Turkey trails, I dared them to run from there up to the Bluff Road trail. Off they went, and they're still running! Not really, but they did make it quite a distance down the bluff road before they stopped. Everyone enjoyed a nice break at the picnic area for a quick bite and pictures. From there we continued down to the falls area, some in the group going down the bluff road and some going down the Adventure Trail. We regrouped at the picnic area next to Lula Lake. After posing for a group picture, we retraced our path along the rail road bed back to the parking lot. Fortunately the rain held off until we were almost back to our cars! Thank you John for being my sweep for the day! Those along for this wonderful hike were: MaryBeth McNeese, Allen Chesney, Misti Gipson, LaDonna Lomenick, Tausha Plate, Barbie Standefer, Betsy Darken, John Rowland, Molly Sasse, Jo Coke, Faye Nunez, Tom Smith and hike leader Kendra Cross.

This hike up the mountain to Snow Falls can seem strenuous especially on a hot day. As the temp forecast was for 86 we set of anyway, but were quite comforted with a constant breeze. The lower part of the trail (before the Laurel/Snow split) has undergone some water erosion and tree fall damage so be prepared to follow the diversions. At this time of year most of the wildflowers are gone but the Mountain Laurel and Rhododendron are splendid. The Mountain Laurel laced the woods at a lower level than we have seen before. We did see spiderwort, fire pink, pink thistle and the ever faithful bluets. Upon reaching the top we turned right and hiked along the rim until the trail led across the power line opening and back into the woods. Once again bearing right we followed the trail in a counterclockwise direction (there is a little spur trail that leads over to the bluff). Crossing over a service road then puts you back on the trail toward the falls. Boots off and water shoes on, we crossed Morgan Creek to then climb the slight hill, reach the rim with the waterfall below, then follow the trail through a crevice and down into the gorge to the base of the falls and the pool formed there. Lots of big rocks to sit upon and enjoy the sounds and sights in this wilderness that was set aside and protected by the Bowater company then purchased by the state of Tennessee for the Cumberland Trail State Park.
To make a loop, we retraced our steps to the service road and turned right, crossing the power line opening in a different spot and staying on the road until we found the blaze that put us back on the trail down the mountain. Bob Rahn convinced Barbara McCollum, Patricia McAlpen, and me to rock hop/wade the creek right after coming down the mountain. There is a campsite on the other side and trails that lead back to the main trail. This shortened our hike by about 3/4 mile. Refreshed and happy with cold drinks left in a cooler in Debbie's car were: Barbara McCollum, Arlene Swallows, John Rowland, Debbie Lambert, Laura Radnich, Wanda McCarter, Teresa Dean, Bob Rahn, Charlie Breeding, Tim Chomyn, Stormy McGauley, Susan Garrett, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Patricia McAlpin, Tom Carter, and Che Carico reporting.

PS: Loaded up with Tidwell strawberries at Frazier Produce. They had kindly set them aside for us so as not to run out before our return home.

With storms in the forecast for the afternoon, the Wednesday hikers decided to hike this 4.9 mile section of the CT rather than go to Brady Mountain which would have required a longer drive and car shuttle. It was a great choice as this is a truly beautiful section of the Soddy Creek Gorge! After leaving some of the cars at Sluder Lane/Hotwater Road we began the hike from a fairly newly constructed parking area on Mowbray Pike. Not many wildflowers now but the rhododendron were splendidly bloomed out. This section has ups and downs, minor creek crossings, water including Little Soddy Creek running alongside the trail, evidence of long ago coal mining in an area now designated as historic, and sitings of the magnificent rocks typical for the trails along the CT. Don Deakins, Bob DeHart, and Caroline Woerner took the role of leaders on this one of many sections they have helped build, wheel, and maintain. We are so proud of what volunteers like these three have done as we imagine visitors from far away places hiking "our" CT trails. The hike was short but did give each hiker a good workout as do all of the CT sections. Gathering at the Blue Ribbon Cafe in Soddy Daisy for lunch after this great hike were: Patti Giles, Charlie Breeding, John Habecker, Tim Chomyn, Susan Garrett, Renee Grace, Teresa Dean, Boe Rudder, Bob Rahn, Arlene Swallows, Trish Appleton, and Che Carico reporting.

As the weekend approached the forecast of rain grew increasingly problematic for our planned foray to Fort Mountain State Park. I spent Friday night listening to the rain pour down on my house in East Ridge, wondering whether I should have just cancelled the hike. The morning was dark and gloomy and the skies looked threatening. Although it wasn't raining when we left Ringgold, we could see clouds cloaking the upper slopes of our planned destination. As we drove up the mountain daytime turned into darkness and the fog grew so thick you could barely make out the edge of the road, BUT IT WASN'T RAINING, yet! We hiked the eight mile Gahuti Backcountry Loop in a clockwise manner, beginning at the Overlook parking lot. Although the trail had a few muddy spots from the overnight rain it was in relatively good shape. We also passed several waterfalls swollen from the recent rains. Along the way Elizabeth (our resident flower expert) identified Wild Geranium, Yellow Stargrass, Galax, Catawba Rhododendron, Flowering Mayapple, and the apparently yelp-inducing Pink Lady Slipper. The cloud cover made for an enjoyably cool day-perfect for hiking. After our hike we enjoyed a fine lunch at Garcia’s Mexican restaurant in Dalton. And no, it never did rain! Enjoying the cool, misty slopes of Fort Mountain were Tim Chomyn, Elizabeth O'Connor, and Chris O'Connor-Hike Leader reporting.

This sequence of trails is quite strenuous as the already rocky path has become more so, likely from heavy rain and erosion. But where else can you see 3 beautiful waterfalls and magnificent views from rock bluffs in one hike? We were too late for the spring flowers - just an occasional fire pink, lark spur, and phaecelia. But the water was running swiftly in the creeks and over the falls. All of the new hikers went dutifully down the access trail to the bottom of Greeter Falls after having checked out the Blue Hole with Bob Rahn in the lead. Then on to Boardtree Falls and finally down into the gulf. It is down in the gulf where you see the phenomena of Big Creek disappearing mysteriously under a huge boulder. Big Creek comes back up after a 2 mile stretch underground near the Connector tail. Lunch was beside the roaring Ranger Falls - a "sweet spot" sometimes missed by even veteran hikers. If you recall, the climb out of the gulf back to the bluff and rim is "short but not so sweet!" .9 of a mile does not often seem so long, but this stretch has uneven, rock laden ground, and is quite steep in spite of the switchbacks. Near the Stone Door itself, wooden steps have been built making a transition from dirt path to the bottom of the stone steps and final ascent to the top. The view was quite splendid! 3 of our hikers stepped onto the Big Creek Rim trail to hike back to the cars, while the others walked on out to the ranger station, retrieved their cold drinks from the cooler we had left in one of the shuttled cars, and left for home or back to Greeter Falls trail head to pick up the rim hikers. It was a long day and a tough hike but most still had positive comments about their experience at the Great Stone Door. Safely completing the hike were: Bob Rahn, Barbara Vestal, Susan Garrett, Debbie Lambert, Patti Giles, Wayne Chambers, Larry Parks, Boe Rudder, Sharon Swafford, Laura Radnich, Gwen Brimer, Debbie Lambert, Don Deakins, Bob DeHart, Charlie Breeding, John Habecker, Renee Grace, Stormy McGauley, John Rowland, Sue Christensen, Wendy Gunn, and Che Carico reporting.

Dr. Ross Campbell fell to his death at the Stone Door and our group took a moment to remember him and his hike with us on this trail about 4 years ago.

Brand new hikers Barbara Vestal and John Habecker are to be applauded as this was a really tough hike! Also to be applauded are the hikers who experienced this trail for the first time and then those of us who returned to the Stone Door even though we knew better!

We were glad to have Don Deakins and some of his hikers along today to show us the new and improved rerouting of this trail. We passed the Cox Valley Road trailhead then turned left at the next opportunity where there was ample parking in pull off areas. This shortened the walk along the dangerous Cox Valley Road by quite a bit. The next change in the trail was near Windless Cave. From the cave we followed the white blazes to an intersection - right will be the new trail out to Cox Valley which is as yet unfinished and left reroutes the main trail up the mountain. This is truly a beautiful trail as it switchbacks up the mountain. Many rough places have been made easier with gentle stone steps. The Wild flowers were amazing! The first Wednesday of May has been lucky for finding lady slippers in the past and our luck held today! Also, with guidance about where to look, Faye found the yellow lady slipper that Debbie found for the first time several years ago! John Dever has declared this trail the yellow Trillium capital of the world! We saw lots of larkspur, fire pink, star chickweed, wood sorrel, more squaw root than we have ever seen, and at least one jack-in-the-pulpit.
Lunch was on the first bluff overlook as all 27 of us found room on the spacious rocks. After lunch Don led us around the loop trail before we started back down. This, too, is new and rerouted so glad to have finally successfully hiked the loop. The pink lady slippers were scattered through the woods all around the loop! Still singing the praises of the Cumberland Trail Conference as they continue to develop and improve were: Arlene Swallows, Becky Braddock, Bob Rahn, Boe Rudder, Charlie Breeding, Faye Nunez, Larry Parks, Laura Radnich, Melvin Nunez, Patti Giles, Renee Grace, Sharon Swafford, Sue Christensen, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Wayne Chambers, Carol Deakins, Shirley Wright, TC Varner, Jill Kelley, John Habecker, Caroline Woerner, Mary Ketterer, Bob DeHart, John Dever, Che Carico reporting, and Don Deakins leading.

Faye and Melvin Nunez have a bit of paradise in Dalton! Their lovely home is right across the street from an approach trail to the Pinhotti Trail and they took us there today. After placing cars at Red Wine Cove ( which required Melvin, Wanda, Suzanne, Che and Charlie to test their utility vehicles and truck crossing a swollen creek) we began our hike steeply uphill for 3/4 mile. We leveled off when stepping onto the Pinhotti, turned left, and trekked on.
Every section of trail in our trail rich part of the country has its special topography, geology, and botany. This section was high enough for splendid views of Georgia valleys, impressive rock outcroppings, and wild flowers we had not yet seen this year. Blue spiderwort was everywhere along with fire pink and more sweet shrub than ever noted! Wild geranium carpeted the forest in the lower Red Wine Cove area, there were a few trillium still in bloom, a few wild azalea, the rarely seen mountain honeysuckle, and star chickweed. Faye pointed out the site of confederate encampments, the remnants of the old fort where the Confederates tried to defend the Georgia route from the Federal troops and a commemorative plaque to Lt. Theodore Marxon, AAF killed in the line of duty, February 2, 1943. Lunch was amid rock outcroppings and ant hills! The distance today was to have been @ 8 miles. 14 of our finest, however, diverted onto one of the approach trails and started downhill thinking the end of the hike was near. This was easy to do as many trails come up from below in many places to access the Pinhotti. Even though rather weary from retracing their steps uphill, these hikers boasted that their trek today was at least 10 miles! Today the last finished first! Having returned safely to the cars and safely recrossing the swollen creek were: Charlie Breeding, Patti Giles, Arlene Swallows, Shirley Wright, Wanda McCarter, Wayne Chambers, Teresa Dean, Bill Kinnaman, Kathy Seymour, Wendy Gunn, Sue Christensen, Renee Grace, Bob Rahn, Gwen Brimer, Susan Garrett, Larry Parks, Boe Rudder, Suzanne Dorough, Linda O’Neal, Che Carico reporting, and Faye and Melvin Nunez leading.

PS. Many of you have heard tales (or experienced first hand) Wayne's famous hike that ended up at Blackberry Farm quite unintended! He was so off course that they had to catch a ride back to their cars that day. Well, he was at it again as he chose to continue on down to the road when everyone else turned to reclimb and reclaim the Pinhotti. Teresa followed him and as their feet hit the pavement he realized he was much further from trail's end than he thought.
With great optimism he declared to Teresa that he would find someone to give them a ride. And so it happened! Walking down the road, miles from where they needed to be, Wayne spotted a car that belonged, he thought, to someone he knew! Teresa was sure they would be shot as he approached the car and banged on the hood! Sure enough it was someone he had worked with years ago and who was delighted to take them to Red Wine Cove AFTER they figured out how to get there. Go figure the luck of that guy!

We began hiking to the falls on a sunny, warm spring day. That's a lie. We began hiking to the falls in the rain but it stopped just as we got to the falls. Another lie. In fact, it only rained for the first 11 miles of our hike. Good thing we were strong hikers, because the hike leader only allowed brief, standing breaks, even for lunch! The wildflowers between Laurel Falls (Kendra had never been there, so we paused for photos) and the top of Cove Mountain were wonderful: wild oats, chickweed, rue anemone, large-flowered trillium, star grass, and lots of varieties of violets, with a few sightings of squirrel corn. Looking at the flowers and the rain-freshened colors of the forest kept us entertained until a cold wind caught our attention up on the Cove Mountain Ridge. It was 54 degrees at the start so well below that on the ridge. Still, the tread way of Cove Mountain trail is just perfect, without rocks or mud.
As we descended the mountain, wildflowers were less evident, but we did enjoy several clusters of dwarf crested iris and flowering dog hobble. At Sugarlands, we changed into dry clothes with alacrity and gratitude, then David headed north for a state park in Virginia, while the rest of us ate a hot meal at the Back Porch in Townsend. Enjoying a day in the forest and avoiding hypothermia were Kendra Cross, David Pugsley, Ralph Van Pelt, and Elizabeth O'Connor, reporting.

The Cumberland Trail continues to be developed and the Roaring Creek trail is another portion. It will connect Rock Creek with Laurel/Snow when finished. What a blessing to be led today by Don and Carole Deakins on this beautiful new to us trail. The hike began along Roaring Creek where flowers bloomed in great abundance! The phlox was amazing along with Soloman's plume, red and yellow buckeye, wild geranium, anemone, trillium, jacks, and a profusion of the precious dwarf iris! Water ran down Graysville Mountain cutting little streams, and bigger streams with waterfalls. The geology of the Cumberland Plateau is powerful along this trail and Tennessee can be so proud to show off that feature here. After a fairly steep upward turn of the trail and upon arriving at the top of the mountain, one is greeted by a grand overlook. Do not stop here as there are three more on the currently completed trail. The best view is from the Cranmore Cove overlook. Any of these bluff views would have offered great lunch places, but we just snacked and kept moving as rain had always been in the forecast. With rumbles of thunder the rain did come but no one complained as all were prepared (except maybe Laura!) and knew that it would rain. You can hike as far as the "End of Trail" sign then must turn around (7.8 miles including spur to waterfall). Soaked but happy today were: Trish Appleton, Wanda McCarter, Charlie Breeding, Suzanne Dorough, Susan Garrett, Wayne Chambers, Patti Giles, Jack Clayton, Laura Radnich, Renee Grace, Bob Rahn, Arlene Swallows, Debbie Lambert, Bill Kinnaman, Boe Rudder, Wendy Gunn, Don Deakins, Carole Deakins, and Che Carico reporting.

Spring was surely here in Shake Rag Hollow on Monteagle near the Sewanee campus! This is a noted and popular trail and the site of many guided wildflower treks. We started at the stone gates just outside of campus. John led us down into the hollow (once a popular "shine" site) following a rushing creek and punctuated by several waterfalls. As the trail flattened out the wildflowers became so very showy - trillium, anemone, larkspur, celandine poppy, chickweed, Dutchman's britches, and purple phaecelia by the hundreds! Never have we seen so many larkspur! Even our first "jacks" were seen on this trail today. At the end of this fairly flat section the trail rises steeply and through big boulders to top out on the trail at Beckwith's Point. This then allowed a loop back to the cars for a total of 3.5 miles. We then moved the cars down into the campus, turned left on Bob Stewman Road and followed our noses to the Caldwell Rim trailhead. John's research brought us to this new trail that we originally heard about from John Doyal. It takes one around to a look off into Lost Cove, however the trees have grown up and were leafed out so our view was obstructed. The added distance was 2.4 miles. Lunch for most was at Sernicola's in Cowan - a wonderful Italian restaurant, and our second time there. With plenty of hiking, wonderful wildflowers, and a great lunch, we started home only to be bombarded by heavy rain, wind, and hail! This all stopped by the time we got to the interstate. Returning home safely were: Susan Garrett, Larry Parks, Wayne Chambers, Charlie Breeding, Jennie Chandler, John Dever, Pam O' Neal, Val Cox, Boe Rudder, Sue Christensen, Wendy Gunn, John Rowland and Che Carico reporting.

The weather was perfect for being outside and everyone was looking forward to our hike. We were not to be the only group hiking today, as there was also a group of wild flower enthusiasts headed for the loop at the end of Sittons Gulch trail to see what was in bloom. Five of us met in Fort Oglethorpe and the rest met in the parking lot at Cloudland Canyon. I was expecting two new folks as Elaine had graciously asked if it would be okay if they came, but was a little surprised to find two more totally unexpected group members. After confirming that everyone was there to join the hike with Chattanooga Hiking Club, having all sign the release, and giving a detailed description of our upcoming hike, we were off to the over look to enjoy the view. We proceeded to walk down to Cherokee Falls (the first waterfall) and took a short break so those who brought cameras could take pictures. Once we were on the Sittons Gulch trail, we began to see many lovely wild flowers. There were Trillium, Flox, Dwarf Iris, Hepatica, Solomons Seal, and many others that I do not know the names of. Charlie jokingly stated that I should have put a clause in my write up about stopping every 30 feet to take a picture of a flower. I had to agree with him!
Once we reached the end of Sittons Gulch trail, we stopped for a break, then began to retrace our steps back up to the parking lot. About half way back on Sittons Gulch, Patti informed me that Juanita (one of my unexpected hikers) was having some difficulty. Patti told me that Juanita had told her that she hadn't hiked in about a year due to health problems. I was also told that she was out of water; we still had the hardest part of our hike ahead of us! I re-filled her water bottle and added some powdered Gator-ade and did the same for her friend, Linda, as well since she had already given some of her water to Juanita. After talking to Linda for a few minutes, she told me that Juanita had said this was supposed to be a 45 minute wild flower hike. Obviously, despite several opportunities to ask questions, they were with the wrong group. MAJOR OOPS! Not to worry, both ladies made it back to the parking lot just fine; as did everyone else in our group. Many thanks to Boodie and Chris for hanging back with these ladies. I really appreciate you guys! Those enjoying this beautiful hike were Becky Chapman, Patti Giles, Boodie Fox, Joyce Campbell, Chris O'Connor, Linda O'Neal, Elaine Montgomery, new comers Tom Rose, Charlie Remy and "stow aways" Linda Woodall and Juanita DelPino. Hike leader Kendra Cross, reporting.

t was a perfect day for this trip to the Piney River Segment of the Cumberland Trail near Spring City. The days of warm temps and sunshine prior to this Wednesday made the wildflowers, for which this trail is noted, pop out in abundance! We first placed a shuttle at the Duskin Branch trailhead (the road is still quite rutted) and all began their trek at the trailhead near the river and the picnic area. Bob, Renee, Susan, Charlie and Larry hiked up to Twin Rocks while the shuttle was being placed then reconnected with the rest of the hikers on the main trail. White trillium, spring beauty, anemone, nodding Mandarin, and white and blue hepatica were the most abundant. Also seen were wake robins, solomon's plume, blood root, trout lilies, phlox, cohosh, and toothwort. The buckeye plants had tight buds and maypops had newly emerged (no blooms yet). Lunch was by the fast moving river in our usual spot - some had "seats" around the campfire ring, some sat along the bank and some sat on the rocks just off the bank and soaked their feet. New hikers are always thrilled with this 8 mile moderate trail and those returning are equally impressed. The cascades were rushing with white water while the Piney River and Duskin Creek never stopped. Out today were: Arlene Swallows, Bob Rahn, Boe Rudder, Gail Stokes, Jean Dickinson, Bill Kinnaman, John Rowland, Larry Parks, Laura Radnich, Barry Ligon, Renee Grace, Stormy McGauley, Sue Christensen, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Sharon Swafford, Wanda McCarter, Charlie Breeding, Kathy Seymour, Jack Clayton, John Dever, Susan Dever, and Che Carico reporting. <
Debbie Lambert and Beverly Ligon hiked the extra two miles to Newby Camp and were picked up there on our way out. Missed "happy hour" at the Sonic but still happy hikers on this vivid spring day!

On this glorious spring morning, fourteen of us gathered at Elsie Holmes Nature Park to enjoy this special place so close to town. Everyone agreed that they appreciated Ben Holmes, who donated the 66 acres to Catoosa County in memory of his wife Elsie, rather than have it cleared for housing. We hiked along the South Chickamauga Creek and stopped to read about the gated Chickamauga Cave on the opposite side of the creek and the bats that live there. We hiked all five trails - some more than once. Wild flower sightings were blue bells, hepatica, phlox, may-apple and trillium. Special thanks to Kendra Cross, who steered this first-time hike leader in the right direction a time or two! Those enjoying this beautiful day were Gail Stokes, Ruzha Cleaveland, Carol Fox, Arlene Swallows, Patricia Daniel, Ned Giles, Joyce Campbell, Kendra Cross, Faye Nunez, Betty Petty, Wayne Chambers, Debbie and Waylon Stone (Wayne's friends) and Patti Giles reporting.,

On March 30 four hale and hearty volunteers met with Steve Biatowas at the Ocoee Ranger Station for an active and informative day of trail maintenance. We proceeded to the Big Frog trailhead at Low Gap and then walked uphill toward Rough Creek intersection. After a climb of a mile or so we stopped and proceeded to divvy up grub hoes, rakes, and pulaskis. Steve had previously marked a number of problem areas along the trail with water control issues. After a short safety briefing we got to work. We cleaned out culverts, reinstalled a number of water dips, regraded several channels on the side slopes and learned how to construct a Coweeta dip. Working our way downhill we completed more than a dozen mini-projects. It was tiring but fulfilling work as our progress was evident by both the trail and our clothing. Steve definitely broke his pledge of not getting dirty on Saturday. The work crew included J.D. Dickinson, Donald Box, and Bill Kinnaman. Steve Barnes reporting.

In hot pursuit of Virginia Bluebells and the other wonderful spring flowers we have found on this trail in north Alabama where it touches the Tennessee border, we took off from the Brown's Ferry exit and headed to Scottsboro. After stopping at Hardee's to pick up four Georgia resident hikers we turned north to find the trailhead. This trail should be rated moderate to strenuous with the strenuous coming after lunch when you are trudging uphill. But the beautiful flowers, the challenge of the creek crossing (today's was a boots off and very cold crossing), the beauty of the deep canyon walls surrounding the lunch spot, the lower waterfall and cascades, and the tricky climb through the rock to the upper falls make this hike so worth while! There is a large campsite in the canyon bottom, and the Clark Cemetery rests peacefully nearby. Flowers were not so plentiful today - a bit early. Twin leaf was blooming as well as trout lillies, trillium, hepatica, Dutchman’s britches, Virginia bluebells (sparse but lovely), and phlox. Please note, the next time you go, the Honey Locust on the right as you approach the bridge coming down the mountain and on the first leg of the hike. We have never seen it before and John Dever pointed it out noting it is rarely seen. When you do find it you will see HUGE thorns on a very large tree. Glad for this glorious day were: Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Laura Radnich, Sharon Swafford, Sue Christensen, Debbie Lambert, Bill Kinnaman, Jean Dickinson, Boe Rudder, Charlie Breeding, John Dever, Wendy Gunn, Reggie Jay, Barbara McCollum, Maxine Moreau, Mary Ellen Morris, Larry Parks, Patti Giles, Arlene Swallows, Che Carico reporting, and John Rowland leading.

The warmest day of the spring greeted us on our double hike to Sterchi Farm and Booker T. Washington. Seven hikers and one canine walked the four mile out and back along South Chick. Creek enjoying good conversation and the brilliant sunshine. Carol, Arlene, and Patti started racing along the scenic boardwalk and disappeared for a time only to be caught on the return trip to the parking lot. After a brief drive, five of us continued the day at Booker T. Washington. Here we were greeted by a strong wind off the lake, but the spring sun kept us plenty warm as we made our way around the 3.5 mile orange loop trail. Ducks, herons, and spring flowers were found along the trail, and we stopped for a break at a scenic point overlooking the lake. Enjoying the beautiful spring day were: Joe Terringer, Boodie and Carol Fox, Patti Giles, Arlene Swallows, Yvonne Noe, Lexi the wonderdog, and Chris O'Connor-Hike Leader reporting.

I was reminded of a border collie as Randy Wharton ran "up and down the line" keeping his crew working and helping them find the trail to the newly discovered waterfall tucked under the mountain below Prentice Cooper. Randy supplied all of the tools on this blustery day and planned for half of the 18 who turned out to go right to work. He guided one fourth of the other half to the waterfall, then came back to pick up another group. Remember Randy runs everywhere he goes, so this plan did not quite work as those hiking had a much slower pace than he needed in order to make his plan work. As a result, the workers accomplished a good bit, the first waterfall seekers did grope their way to the waterfall (many of the original trail flags had disappeared), and a group left on their own, somewhere in between, bailed out, returned to Mullins Cove Road and walked back to the Pot Point House never having made the waterfall. JD, John, Bill (the design engineer), Donald and Renee constructed a set of steps that amazed and pleased Randy! They carved out the treads and lined the steps and risers with stones pulled in from a surrounding stream bed. John had a smashed finger but no one was lost forever, and no one went home mad! We will be glad to help again with a better understanding of the condition of this brand new trail and what each task will be.
Flower sightings on this March day were hepatica, toothwort, vinca, and trillium!
This great group of volunteers included: Renee Grace, Bill Kinnaman, Trish Appleton, John Rowland, John Dever, Bob Rahn, Gwen Brimer, Suzanne Dorough, Laura Radnich, Patti Giles, Charlie Breeding, Boe Rudder, Arlene Swallows, Susan Garrett, Donald Box, Jean Dickinson, Wendy Gunn, Che Carico reporting, and Randy Wharton.

After a few wrong turns and turn arounds due to missing signs, etc. we finally located the trail head. We managed to hike the trail without any miscues however. The short climb up to the ridge top was invigorating and the sight of the Hiwassee River below inspiring. This is the section of the river that is by-passed by the tunnel from Appalachian Dam to the powerhouse so it is mostly a marshy retreat having only the water flowing out of the surrounding forest. Both of the falls on Turtletown Creek were spectacular with the high water flow from recent rains. Participants were Patti Giles, Jane Finch, Jane Ann Seale, Monty Simmons, Ralph Van Pelt and hike leader Betty Petty reporting.

As most of the Chattanooga area hikers packed up and prepared to leave Len Foote Hike Inn, 7 packed their lunches, dressed warmly as it was sooo cold and snow was flurrying all around, and embarked on the connector to the AT Approach Trail. Their goal was to take the Approach Trail to Springer Mountain and stand at the southern terminus of the AT. So where those leaving turned left and looped back to the falls, we turned right and headed up the trail. What a joy to walk where those walk who undertake this great trek! We checked out any shelter that was along the way. At the top of the last uphill trek to the Springer Mountain jump off point we sat on the rock where the plaque is, registered in the notebook lodged safely in a metal box tucked in a hollowed out place in the rock, and then stepped off onto the AT for a short distance. Since the wind was quite strong and the chill great, we dropped back down the trail to seek a little shelter from the wind. The sun came out and shone on our spot as we ate our lunches and howled over the fact that Debbie and Jack failed to "check the boxes" (neither had their reading glasses with them) and ate absolutely dry pork sandwiches prepared at the Inn! Charlie's was custom prepared at the Inn with delicious condiments simply because he checked the boxes marked "lettuce", "tomato", etc. He did not share! And the rest of us continued to laugh! The day was saved by the giant yummy cookies also in their bags along with an apple. After lunch we turned our backs to Springer and began our journey back to the Inn. Along the way we met 7 through hikers on their way to the AT. It was fun to chat with each and witness their excitement.

At dinner Thursday night (baked ham, corn soufflé, marinated brussel sprouts, rolls and blueberry "ooey gooey" for dessert) we became acquainted with a family there to see their son off on his pursuit of Maine. Later was more jigsaw puzzle working and a rousing round of a new card game introduced to the group by Jack called 31. That sneaky, smiling Bob went home with everybody's pennies! After another hearty breakfast on Friday morning we walked with Ryan and his family to the Approach Trail and bid him farewell and good luck! He seems well prepared as he was an Eagle Scout and was in the Air Force. At the junction of the Inn trail and the Approach Trail he met a couple of also eager young men coming up from the starting point. They seemed to become instant friends and the three waved goodbye to us and Ryan's family as they headed for Springer. Ryan's parents have no doubt he will make it and is well prepared for the trek, but they did say it made them feel a bit better to see him go down the trail with two others rather than alone. A recent report from his dad said that the three of them did hitch to Dahlonega (11 miles) their second night as temps were in the teens - they stayed in a motel. Glad they had the good sense to do this.

The remainder of our trip out was uneventful as we met and talked to many other AT hikers and a forest service trail runner who treks and inspects this section of trail. Will share with you our concern for the mother and 3 young children (maybe 7 - 12 years old) we met as we approached the end of our hike. The young boy said they were Georgia to Maine bound! Each was loaded with about as much as they could carry, the mother's pack being really loaded. We surely hope they make it, and I hope they were warm Friday and Saturday nights!

After saying farewell at the parking area to Charlie Breeding and Jack Clayton who opened and shared a can of spicey vienna sausage, John Rowland, Bob Rahn, Debbie Lambert, Gwen Brimer, and Che Carico headed to Ellijay in search of Poole's Barbeque Restaurant. We had met Darvin Poole at the Inn the night before and liked him so much and liked his tale of great food. We were not disappointed! This was a great end to our trip - you know how John likes his barbeque and fried pies! John Rowland and Che Carico co-reporting.

John and Wayne had speculated at about the same time last fall that it was time to see if our hiking club folks, particularly the host of newer Wednesday hikers, should visit (or revisit) the Len Foote Hike Inn between Springer Mtn and Amicalola State Park in Georgia. After kicking around some dates in April and May, Wayne discovered a special rate for January and February - half price! When the first inquiry about interest went out there was an immediate response, so last Wednesday 31 Chattanooga hikers (a few were spouses) struck out for this great adventure. All checked in at the ranger station and all were on the trail (5 mile hike) by the deadline of 2pm, arriving at various times to check out the Inn, make beds, and arrive for the tour of the facility by 5pm. When you go please take the tour so you can see how special the so you can see how special the LEED Len Foote Inn is.

Dinner was served at 6 with the incredible food having been prepared by a chef and his staff - no peanut butter sandwiches! Roasted pork loin, hot mashed potatoes, green beans, Caesar salad, rolls, and a blueberry cheesecake pie all served boarding house style. After dinner we had watched and listened to a slide presentation by the young Inn director of his recent experience through-hiking the AT. Imagine how proud we felt when our own Madelaine Cornelius raised her hand when the guests were asked if any had completed the trail!! Then some retired to their bunk beds for early bedtime, some went to the lobby couches for quiet reading, while most congregated in the game room. John led any who would join in a jigsaw puzzle marathon, others propped their feet in front of the fire while rocking in rocking chairs, and a rather rowdy group enjoyed singing old favorite songs played on the guitar by Charlie Breeding's friend Jack Clayton.

Thursday morning sunrise was abbreviated by the cloud cover, but was still beautiful, and provided a couple of nice photo ops. Breakfast was served and included scrambled eggs, bacon, gravy and biscuits, and grits. Fresh fruit and dry cereals were also offered. Well fed, most hikers packed up and prepared for the hike back to the top of the Amicalola Falls. Some trekked out the way they came in while others took the one mile connector trail over to the AT Approach Trail, turned left and completed a loop back. This side of the loop is only .3 miles longer, it is a bit harder with more ups and downs, but it offers a chance to meet and chat with upcoming AT through hikers.

Having recently had knee replacements for both knees, Wayne was not yet released to hike. However, he received a ride by jeep to the Inn from the park ranger station and was there to greet each hiker with his joy to be there! He and John practically filled the Len Foote Inn with Chattanooga hikers. Lots of good times, lots of good food, lots of laughs (like someone entering the wrong bunkhouse room after a late night bathroom visit...), and just the right amount of great hiking. Inn visitors (about half going for the first time) were Kathy Seymour, Cecile Shenouda, Anne Huckaba, Tom Carter, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Trish Appleton, Teresa Dean, Donald Box, Madelaine Cornelius, Arlene Swallows, Pat Daniel, Barbara McCollum and Mary Ellen Morris from Rome Georgia, Rhonda and Larry Parks, Patti and Ned Giles, Susan and Bob Garrett, Wayne Chambers, Jerry Wright, Sharon Swafford, Laura Radnich, Bob Rahn, Charlie Breeding and friend Jack Clayton, Debbie Lambert, Gwen Brimer. John Rowland and Che Carico co-reporting.

You might not expect your perfect hike to be in February, but it really was! We began hiking along the tumbling high waters of Laurel (?) Creek as fog continued to lift. The water cascaded down rock shelves, flowed into beautiful green pools, then crashed over boulders. Most of us have hiked this trail and know that you continue to hear the creek even as the hike begins to ascend away from it. Despite the hike leader wandering off onto manways here and there, we easily found Laurel Falls, only to reach an impromptu consensus about continuing on. The trail led up and over the bluff wall adjacent to the falls.
That proved to be quite a rock scramble, but our strong group had no problem with it. Up on the bluff, the feel was very different, in the coniferous forest suddenly, with spongy moss and spreading lichens. We ate lunch in the just-appeared warming sun after Boodie explained how, with a lower water level, on our next visit we could continue across the plateau and cross the creek to the next bluff. To accompany our lunch and the sound of the waterfall, the migrating sandhill cranes flew over, easily identified by their voices. Enjoying our day were Joyce Campbell, Wendy Gunn, Patti Giles, Yvonne Dyer Noe (Mary Young's niece!), Boodie Fox, Lori and Dave Gronek, and Chris and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader reporting.

All hikers can be so very proud of the Cumberland Trail, Tennessee's Linear State Park! Thanks to folks like TC and Judy Varner, Don and Carole Deakins, and Bob DeHart who led us on this section today, the trail lengthens and is made more clearly passable with bridges and trail signs as the gaps in the trail are connected and it stretches to the Kentucky border at Cumberland Gap. The trail north of our area is being developed by trail enthusiasts much like our own. We must not forget the young people from far and wide who come on their spring breaks to help build the CT!
38 hikers were on the trail this day. How do we keep up with them? Groups form and when the trail is easily followed we send the faster paced hikers on ahead. Randy Wharton showed us how to make a marking system using flour and a squirt bottle. The faster hikers practiced using the bottle and marked the trail when they made a turn. Don made sure we waited at intersections for the last in the long line of remaining hikers. Rocking and rolling on this beautiful section we were treated to magnificent rock, rushing streams, waterfalls, and often the thick cushion of pine needles. New bridges are in place as we crossed over Rock Creek on a fiberglass bridge and over Rocky Branch, Flat Branch and Boiling Springs on pole bridges. The choices today were 7.5 miles to the lower Leggett Road trailhead and 5.4 miles to the upper Leggett Road trailhead. Don and Bob had placed a car at the top for any who wanted a shorter hike.
Enjoying continuing as "section hikers" of the CT were: Bob Rahn, Debbie Lambert, Gwen Brimer, Trish Appleton, Wanda McCarther, Suzanne Dorough, Charlie Breeding, Sue Christensen, Madelaine Cornelius, Mary Ketterer, Donald Box, Arlene Swallows, Larry Parks, Susan Garrett, Renee Grace, Joan Bailey, Stormy McGauley, Tom Carter, Tim Chomyn, John Rowland, Lori Gronek, Laura Radnich, Barbara McCollum, TC Varner, Judy Varner, Bob DeHart, Carol Deakins, JD Dickinson, Bill Kinnaman, Patti Giles, Richard Park, Teresa Dean, Rick Rogers, Becky Braddock, Che Carico, Boe Rudder, and Don Deakins.

It was just above freezing when six hardy hikers met in the visitor center parking lot at Chickamauga Battlefield. Everyone was in high spirits as we crossed Lafayette Road and headed into the woods near the intersection of Lafayette and Vineyard Alexander Roads. Che began the hike diligently taking notes of our route in case she decided to lead the Wednesday group there. I believe the note taking ended around mid day. After a long windy walk across the field near Wilder tower, we stopped at a pic nic table for lunch. As we were about to resume our hike, we ran into Boodie Fox and Gail Stokes, who were hiking with the Soddy Daisy hiking club. Che, being ever so generous, was offering chocolate to any one needing a little energy boost. A little while later we encountered another fellow hiking club member, Becky Chapman, who was hiking with a friend. After crossing Snodgrass hill, Che needed to get back home so she left the hike a little early. Thanks go to Bill for escorting her safely back to her car. The rest of us continued on to Battle Line Road and then back to the visitor center. Those out for a cold, but beautiful hike were Che Carico, Tim Chomyn, Monty Simmons, Bill Kinneman and Jerry Wright. Hike leader Kendra Cross reporting.

We were fortunate enough to get the first pretty sunny day in recent memory for this nice little hike in the Cherokee. When we arrived at the parking lot, instead of the many cyclists that I expected, there was only one other car and it did not have a bicycle rack! We walked to the top of the ridge and took the snake tail switchbacks down to the old home site that this trail passes through ending up on a knoll that overlooks Ocoee Lake #3 where we had lunch. We returned via the alternate route around the side of the hill overlooking the lake most of the way. We were only passed by three or four small cyclists groups and encountered a couple of other hikers. Participants were Donald Box, Madelaine Cornelius, JD Dickerson, Katherine Gibson (Ralph’s daughter), Patti Giles, Bo and Linda Rudder, Monty Simmons, Ralph Van Pelt and hike leader Betty Petty reporting.

Since we hadn't been to this marvelous place in a couple years, we recently decided to make it a priority while the water would be up from the fairly wet winter that we've had. So after a couple rainouts of prospective trips, we finally made it. And yes, the water was up - big time! Even at Sheep Cave, where there's usually just a trickle. Most folks who had been here before seemed to agree that Big Laurel and Virgin Falls had at least as much as, if not more, water than we had ever seen. It was especially enjoyable for us to share this hike with those who were doing it for the first time - about half of us. Hikers were Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Boe Rudder, Charlie Breeding, Che Carico, Debbie Lambert, Donald Box, Gwen Brimer, JD Dickinson, John Dever, Karen Ramsey, Larry Parks, Madelaine Cornelius, Patti Giles, Renee Grace, Stormy McGauley, Sue Christensen, Susan Garrett, Suzanne Dorough, Tim Chomyn, Tom Carter, Trish Appleton, Wendy Gunn, my guest from Crossville Carroll Viera, and John Rowland reporting.

The Chattanooga Hiking Club members can be proud of the way they embrace opportunities to groom, improve, or blaze new trails! Today we had such an experience working with Sam Powell and Adam Noll as the newly acquired McCoy property on Signal Mountain is developed for recreation and preserved for history. 23 were there with various tools and worked for hours grooming the first trail cut by a bush hog. The Town of Walden will have a professional trail builder come in next as we have cleared the way a bit.
Everyone also enjoyed learning about the McCoy/Bachman family who lived here and how their home and land became the property of the Town of Walden. The original house remains along with the other out buildings required for their way of life. Also remnants of orchards and gardens are to be reclaimed from the forest growth that has blurred their boundaries. The trail is not ready for public use as yet. It will be a wonderfully historic and beautiful place to visit as soon as it is properly prepared. Sam had a copy of Karen Stone's book entitled Walden's Ridge: The Early Years and found himself taking orders!
Pitching branches, digging up stumps, clipping vines, and pulling privet today were: Patti Giles, Larry Parks, Gail Stokes, Renee Grace, Sue Christensen, Suzanne Dorough, Wanda McCarter, Sharon Swafford, Curt Shumaker, Debbie Lambert, Madelaine Cornelius, Donald Box, Gwen Brimer, Anne Huckaba, Tom Carter, John Rowland, Bob Rahn, Susan Garrett, Che Carico, Trish Appleton, Wendy Gunn, Adam Noll, and Sam Powell. Che Carico reporting,

After several hikes having been rained out this month, we were delighted to get a beautiful clear day. There had been a "frog strangler" rain most every day of the preceding week, but Friday had been clear bur raw. There was plenty of water and rock hops where there had been nothing on past hikes. Rock Creek was running full and showed us many lovely cascades as we worked our way up to the cove where we planned to eat lunch. The crossing there was a boots off wade, but only invigorating not scary. Those enjoying a day of solitude in the lovely Little Frog Wilderness were Donald Box, Madekaine Cornelius, Mary Ketterer, John Meldorf, Ralph Van Pelt and Betty Petty, hike leader.

We began climbing the Kiddie Trail with the "chur-chur" of my favorite woodpecker above us. Chris met us at the junction with Upper Truck; he hiked in from Craven's House to spare his new ACL the steep wet rocks. We didn't mind the light rain (from 9 to 9:30 - just like Chris had predicted from the radar) as we were climbing then anyway. The Bluff Trail was shrouded in fog and Kendra had fun taking black and white photos with her new camera. Her camera could isolate and capture only the yellow from Chris's synthetic shirt with the rest of the photo in black and white. It was cool and Kendra did photos for each of us capturing only one color, my green shirt, Wendy's pink bandana. On our amazing 74 degree day- January!-we never needed jackets, even while sitting for lunch at Skyuka Springs. Walking back on Lower Truck, we were treated to watching hawks several times, including once when a hawk carried an animal in its talons, then dropped its lunch (dead squirrel) just ahead of us on the trail. Enjoying a spring-like day were Kendra Cross, Wendy Gunn, Chris and Elizabeth O'Connor, hike leader.

Don Deakins is not to be denied when he has promised to lead a hike, so we stood in the pouring rain at the "store" at the Jones Gap Road exit to get organized and then drove to the climber's access trailhead on Old Hotwater Road. I asked Don, wife Carole, and TC if they often hike in weather like this and Don's answer was "Oh, yeah" with a big grin. 15 hikers stuck it out today and were rewarded as the rain stopped with the first step onto the trail and did not start again until we were in cars and on the way home. This is such a beautiful section with typical CT geology, large rocks along the trail which is often padded with pine needles, a great overhanging rock with plenty of seats for our sitdown lunch, rushing water soon to be crossed on new bridges due to be built in the spring, and evidence of long ago mining. One planned bridge will cross Deep Creek and another will span Big Soddy Creek. There are temporary bridges in place now but they are not to be used. Don't know why as they seem quite sturdy and offer much better footing than crossing the creeks with the large rock beds. The Boardcamp Creek is a delightful companion as you hike through the woods on the Hwy 111 end of this section. Out today in spite of the rain were: Patti Giles, Larry Park, Wanda McCarter ("peer pressure made me come!"), Sue Christianson, Renee Grace, Tom Carter, Arlene Swallows, and Suzanne Dorough hiking 6.7 miles and finishing at 111. Debbie Lambert, TC Varner, Barry Ligon, Beverly Ligon, Carole Deakins, and Don Deakins hiked the extra 1.5 miles to Jones Gap Road and perhaps were caught in the returning rain. Don can make you dig down inside and find out just what you can do!! Suzanne's son John is an expert and accomplished climber so she was glad to be photographed in one of the areas where he "hangs out".Che Carico reporting.

A relatively nice day, a good hike in a beautiful area, and a great group of folks! We crossed the upper part of the canyon and were surprised to see several yurts that have been recently constructed on the other side. We continued clockwise (just to throw Chris off) around the west rim loop, stopping for lunch on the sunny and warm rocks at one of the overlooks into the canyon. On the return trip we stopped for a closer inspection of one of the yurts; very interesting! About half of us then ventured down the stairs to both waterfalls. Both falls surprisingly had a little ice around them, the lower falls especially. In fact the wooden viewing platform at the lower falls was covered in a thin sheet of ice. The hikers (including three generations of adults!) were Madelaine Cornelius, Mary Ketterer, Elizabeth Ketterer, Donald Box, Patti Giles, Wendy Gunn, Elizabeth and Chris O'Connor, Arlene Swallows, Che Carico, Joyce Campbell, Boe Rudder, Brandon Whited, and John Rowland reporting.

It was the perfect day to trek off to Laurel Falls. Temps were not out of the 40s but not much wind and not so chilly. With all of the previous week's rain (we were rained out on December 26th) the water in Richland Creek was high on the banks and the Laurel Falls were roaring at the top and on down through the gorge. With the leaves down it was easy to see where Morgan Creek comes in to Richland. Bill made some inquiries about whether or not there is a trail along Morgan Creek. Seems there is not to be one, but perhaps that will be a good place to scout to see if a possible bushwhacking route. Remember Morgan Creek is the one you must cross to get over to the base of Snow Falls. Lunch break was by the falls with very little conversation as the roar was so loud. Arlene is singing praises to Charlie Breeding - our newest "trail angel" - as he climbed down under the tall bridge near the Laurel/Snow Falls junction to retrieve the glove she had dropped. At this spot it is a steep drop down under the bridge to the creek and Arlene had opted to leave the glove. Hikers are great people!!! Enjoying our first hike in 2013 were: Richard Park, Kathy Seymour, Gary Smith, Arlene Swallows, Bill Kinnaman, Gwen Brimer, Jean Dickinson, John Rowland, Laura Radnich, Madelaine Cornelius, Patti Giles, Sharon Swafford, Suzanne Dorough, Tim Chomyn, Trish Appleton, Barbara McCollum, Mary Ketterer, Renee Grace, Adam Noll, Charlie Breeding, Tennyson Carico, Wanda McCarter, Bob Rahn and grandson Jeffrey, and Che Carico reporting.

Last updated: 5 March 2012