Elsie Holmes Nature Center

2.25.14   We went to Elsie Holmes Nature Center yesterday rather than Cedar Mountain (which has not reopened).  We had 18 hikers.  It turned out to be a reallynice day.  The trail was dry and passable along Chickamauga Creek which was really flowing.  We hiked about 3-1/2 miles and I would rate the hike as easy.  Most of us enjoyed eating at Einsteins Bagels afterwards.

George

Desoto State Park

2.22.14    Our TTA Chapter’s Saturday hike was originally planned to follow along the Little River trail within DeSoto State Park located near Mentone, Alabama but George and I scouted it out last Sunday afternoon and found several sections were underwater within the first mile or so due to the swollen river and since more rain was on its’ way this past week, George reworked our hike to stay up on top of Lookout Mountain instead of travelling along the Little River segment.  There were eight souls looking for a little rest and relaxation today in the form of hike.  It’s a little known fact among city dwellers but hikers are aware that  a walk in the woods helps refocus the mind and revive the spirit.  We were fortunate that two of the hikers travelling with us was a retired couple who were in Chattanooga for a short stay and decided to find a better way to spend their Saturday than sightseeing downtown.  Debbie and Mark reside near Washington, D.C. and they graced us with their presence for a good part of the day.  Thanks guys for sharing your time with us.  The trek itself was just under 7.5 miles and although the terrain would be classified as easy the mileage would make it a moderate day of hiking.  George, as our hike leader,  led us by Lost Falls, Laurel Falls and Indian Falls, in that order.  The weather as you might have guessed if you left the confines of your homes today was sunny and warm which made for perfect hiking weather.  I hope everyone had a chance to get out and take advantage of the beautiful trails we have around our area.  Happy Hiking!

Oh btw, please try to remember that the month of March is when the Cumberland Trail Conference will be hosting the Spring Break Away for the college students from across the nation at our local Dogwood Lodge near Soddy Daisy.  These young people will be working towards extending and or completion of the Roaring Creek trail located on Graysville Mountain.  If you could spare your time or your resources anytime during the month of March it would be greatly appreciated by the CTC and everyone else that enjoys hiking the Cumberland Trails in our area.

Courtesy Larry