Black Mountain 6.19.18

It was a rather long ride to black mountain for a what turned out to be a relatively short hike.  The ride turned out to be really nice with lots of good conversation along the way.  Boodie, the hike leader grew up in the area and was able to inform his passengers about all the local lore.  It was good that we left early, because by the time the group of eight, arrived it was starting to get hot and humid.  The drive up the mountain was interesting as it was a one-way road with two-way traffic!  Once we arrived at the parking lot everything went smoothly.  We had decided on the shorter loop around the top of the mountain.  A three mile branch hike was voted down.  At one time in the 20's, there was a Methodist camp on the mountain.  Hence the spring building and chimney.  I would rate this one hour and 45 minute hike as an easy 2.3 miles.  We dipped down into a field of towering boulders and walked out onto view points that offered a staggering view of the valley below.  Following the narrow ride back down, most of the group of  the group had a catfish dinner at a local restaurant.  If you would like to see some pictures, click here.

Glenn Falls 6.16.18

Seven hardy hikers showed up for the Saturday hike to Glen Falls on Lookout Mountain.  What fools these mortals be.  They entrusted their safety and well being in me leading them on my first time as hike leader.  At the conclusion of the hike I thanked them for not getting injured or lost because I didn't want to have to submit any additional paperwork.  The hike got underway about 8:30.  The temperature was in the 70's and heading higher.  The humidity seemed bearable.  The first and most difficult part of the hike was the hike up to an unmarked road which we easily crossed.  The ascent was a cardio workout.  We continued to the most dangerous part of our journey, crossing OCHS Hwy at approximately .5 miles from the falls.  The trail then led to the falls and pool under the falls.  Though the falls was still flowing, it was at a reduced rate.  We had lunch and returned to the parking lot at Ruby Falls. Exiting at a little past noon.  The trail though not blazed, was used enough so getting lost was not a concern.  The hottest part of the hike was the walk back from the trailhead (near the incline RR) to the parking lot.  We were out from under the trail canopy at that point.  Everyone said it was a good hike. If you would like to see some pictures, click here.