Twin Rocks and Flat Rock Loop

7.16.11  Nance Jo, George, McBob, Earl  Great day for a hike.  Not too hot since it was overcast.  First we hiked up to Twin Rocks where we had a snack and enjoyed the view.  The last 100ft to Twin Rocks is quite adventurous as you are required to clime some almost vertical steps.  On the way back we to an offshoot to Flat Rock which is aptly named and finished eating our lunch next to Piney River.  The river had plenty of water and was beautiful.  From there we followed the river back to the main road.  The distance was only 2.7 miles but we had a very good time.  I rate the hike to Twin Rocks as moderate and the Flat Top Rock loop as easy.  For a couple of pictures click Twin Rocks and Flat Rock Loop. 

River Walk 7.14.11

7.14.11 Nance Jo, Earl.  We started our walk where the Chattanooga Riverwalk crosses River Terminal Road.  It was quite hot with temperatures in the 90's and high humidity.  It was nice not to have to worry about mosquitoes, chiggers and ticks for a change.  We meandered along the walkway seeing bikers and other walkers.  Finally we reached the museum district and enjoyed the outside sculptures that are everywhere in this area.  We especially liked the cast bronze horse in front of the Hunter Museum (see pictures).  When we reached the Market Street Bridge (a walking bridge) we decided to walk across and back which added about a mile to our walk.  Finally we reached the Aquarium where we had a ride scheduled to meet us.  From there we went to the boat house for a very good lunch.  We then went back to the Aquarium and and toured both buildings.  The Aquarium was fantastic as it always is.  Then our ride took us back to our car and the hike was over.  Overall distance was 4.2 miles on the Riverwalk plus the distance walked inside the aquarium.  I would rate the walk as easy.  To see some pictures click here or click on the River Walk tab above. 

Frozen Head Park, Old Mac Trail North and South

7.9.11  Jean, Will, Nance Jo, McBob, George, John, Earl.  Frozen Head is one of my favorite places even though most of the trails are pretty tough.  The other problem is that it is quite a long drive from Soddy Daisy.  Going up the trail, especially the last third was really tough on me.  But as always, the group was really supportive giving me rest breaks as needed .  Everyone else did pretty well.  The trail was narrow going both up and down.  Everywhere we looked it was beautiful.  The bottom half of the trail was pretty hot and humid but as we reached the summit of 3000' it was much cooler.  We met quite a few other hikers on the trail as well.  As you can see in the photo, we saw an absolutely beautiful orange salamander.  I would rate this trail as moderate-severe.  Total distance was 6.5 miles.  For some pictures, click here or click on the Frozen Head tab above.