Summit Knob Equestrian Trail

Eight hikers bundled up for a 4.5 mile hike at Summit Knobs Equestrian Trail.  No Horses were on the trail today, but definitely had left evidence.  A stag briefly appeared and quickly darted away.  3-4 does flagged their white tails in the distance.  The trail was easy, packed dirt and only a few muddy places, no rocks!  Rolling hills gave us a  cardio workout.  We hiked to Harrison creek branch, turned around and walked back.  Good conversation and happy hikers made the time pass quickly.  Our hike was completed before noon.  MERRY CHRISTMAS!

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Moccasin Bend 12.7.2021

 This was another very interesting tour by Jim Ogden, head historian at the Chickamauga Battlefield.  I had always wondered what was in this area of Moccasin Bend, but I had no idea that it held so much history.  Our group had a little difficulty getting into the parking area as the gate was locked and the key that Jim had did not work.  Someone did not follow key etiquette among the many agencies that have access to this area.  Jim therefore had to improvise and order a universal key (bolt cutters).  After this brief snafu, all nineteen of us managed to get parked and set off on a cold morning in the low 30's.  We did manage to hike all of 2.7 miles around Moccasin Bend.  Unfortunately there is not much to show in the way of pictures as it is all about the history of the area.  You can see a map of the area and an unusual view of Lookout Mountain.  This area is the oldest continuously settled spot in the U.S.  It has history going back 12,000 years and perhaps more.  Unfortunately highway construction in the 50's, which involved dredging away some of the site, and grave robbers have lost us of much of the detailed history of this area.  You can still see evidence of the grave robbing that went on. After the history lesson some of the hikers went to one of the members condo by the pool and had lunch.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this history lesson including maps of just where we were, click here.  

Rugby, TN 12.2.2021

 This was a very different hike!  We did a lot of walking, but not on a trail but around the town of Rugby, TN.  This is a Victorian town established in Appalachia.  The idea originally was to support those unemployed aristocrats and ordinary citizens in England.  To find out more about this unusual settlement from the 1880's you are just going to have to do some research as it is very interesting.  Our group of 17 loaded up for the 2.5 hr. drive to Rugby.  This was one of our longest excursions and we truly did intend to hike.  It just didn't quite work out.  Almost but not quite.  After arriving in Rugby we met our tour guide and began a very interesting tour of the town.  I guess you might say that Rugby was a case of too many chief and not enough Indians.  The idea was basically sound, but the makeup of the people was not.  Anyway, we enjoyed a video which clearly explained what was behind the founding of Rugby and the people involved.  Following the video we toured the historic building of Rugby.  By the time we were finished the the tour, it was past time to eat.  If there is one thing this chapter is good at it it eating.  There was not much to choose from in Rugby.  In fact, there is only one place, the R.M Brooks Gen. Mdse. store.  Inside, you could spend hours looking at original artifacts that have been collected over the years.  But the best part is that our waitress also ran the store and did the cooking of deserts.  We had a wonderful lunch and then it came time for the aformentioned deserts.  She had just finished making fried apple pies and coconut pie.  We made our decisions and received our deserts then she mentions she had some other deserts that the had recently made.  This simple act created a great deal of turmoil among us.  Reorder and adjustment were rapidly made. Then she reappeared an mentioned yet some additional items she had.  The crowd went crazy! We just couldn't decided!  Finally things calmed down and order was restored and we enjoyed hearing her stories and recipes.  Of course, by now it was too late to go on the planed hike so we made a short detour to the local historic cemetery for a short visit before heading back on the road home.  Many thanks to Trish and Jane for organizing this outing.  I had a great time. 

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this outing, please click here.     

Roaring Creek 11.27.2021

The mystery of Roaring Creek, who killed Foxy Lady 

Saturday, Nov. 27, seven forensic hikers, layered with clothing to brave the cold morning, set out on Graysville Mountain RMA, to investigate the Roaring Creek murder.  Hiking along Roaring Creek was easy business, but knowing what was to come, was daunting.  The frenetic seven scaled the mountain ascending rock steps back and forth to the top of the bluff.  Roaring Creek overlook revealed a beautiful view of graysville and the mountains beyond, but no evidence of a crime commited.  The hikers moved on, silently through the pine forest.  And there it was, the crime scene, the body!  Rigor had not set in yet, no decay - a recent homicide.  Looked to be a dead grey gray fox, the hikers concluded, with no external trauma.  Who killed the foxy Lady?  The faithful hikers continued their journey, stopping at the overlook of Cranmore Cove and then pressing on through the hardwood forest.  The  brown oak leaves rustled.  Finally the bridge over Gillbreath Creek was reached at 5 miles.  Lunch and rest re-energized the famished hikers.  Two locals were loitering in the area, Brown Dog who suspiciously kept her distance and Black Lab, friendly but noncommunicative.  She obviously knew the area well as she joined the return hike, even leading the way for a short time.  Retracing the steps, co clues were found.  Who killed Foxy Lady?  The fatigued hikers passed the crime scene once more.  Buzzards were gathering.  The mystery remains a cold case.  

If you would like to see some really nice pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

TN Wall Trail 11.23.2021

 This was a new trail for me.  The trail head was somewhat hard to find unless you had been there before.  This trail was rated as moderate.  After the first 300' I was gasping for air.  I would rate it as moderate ++ for our group even though we only went 2.5 miles.  It was a steady up hill for the eight of us to the trail split at the base of the wall.  There we took a break and had a drink.  From this point we enjoyed the view as first we went West on a pretty rocky trail untill the trail began to disappear.  At this point we then turned around and went back to the split and ventured East on the trail.  Along this trail we found lots of rock climbers as you can see from the pictures.  We watched them dangle above our heads and then decided it was time to head back.  Going back was MUCH easier and I couldn't believe how quickly we reach our vehicles.  The total time of the hike was 3hrs and 14 minutes.  This was because we spent so much time watching the climbers.  We then went to River Drifters Cafe and celebrated our first lunch of the year.  We had a very enjoyable lunch.  

If you would like to see a bunch of pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Skyuka Springs on Lower Truck Loop 11.20.2021

 How could this trail be uphill both ways?  So it seemed, starting with an uphill hike from Skyuka trailhead.  The morning was cold, we were fresh and the uphill was welcome to warm ourselves.  Signs directing our path dimineshed in information and character as our hike progressed.  Somewhere we took a wrong turn and headed downhill off the Skyuka.  Nice detour with the trees still clothed in brilliant colors.  But the trail we wanted was above us, so we bushwacked uphill til arriving on the correct path.  Now were bushed!  Skyuka springs, our lunch destination was just over the nexst ridge, or maybe the next one, or the next... We made it to our lunch reservation just before noon and selected outdoor seating on logs bathed in sunshine, overlooking Lookout Creek.  Refuel and rest was sneeded.  Returning on the lower Truck Trail was a pleasant walk along the creek and through the forest.  Until we hiked the connector trail back to the Skyuka.  The connector trail went straight up Lookout Mountain forever and where did all these ups and downs come from on the Skyuka?!  Tired but happy hikers trod 10.2miles with an elevation gain of 1460 feet.  Good job hikers!

If you want to see some really nice pictures taken during this hike, Click Here.

Mowbray to Sluder Lane 11.16.2021

 We had a splendid time hiking the South Soddy Gorge.  A cool, cloudy day made hiking easy - even though the trail was 5.3 miles and a bit of a descent into the gorge and then, of course , the ascent out of the gorge.  There was a nice view of the valley, framed by rugged rocks and colorful trees.  Bob tried raising the roof on the Rock House.  Wayne attempted rock climbing and did fine as long as his feet stayed on the ground.  A few downed trees presented an obstacle course.  Roy discovered an egg during one of our snack breaks.  Who or what laid it?  And what emerged from it?  It was a wonderfgul day, walking through the forest, listening to train whistles from the valley and thiniking of coal mining days.  The oldest coal mine in Tennessee was opened in 1866 in this area by the Soddy Coal Cmpany.  Mules were the source of transporting coal in ore cars from mines to the Tennessee river, until steam engines powered the incline to the valley.

If you would like to see some beautiful pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Laurel Falls 11.13.2021

What was suppose to be a 6.6 mile hike to Laurel Falls and Bryan's Overlook ended up being a moderate 5+ mile to Laurel Falls only. We had difficulty finding the continuing trail from Laurel Falls to Bryan's Overlook. We ran into a hiker on his way to the falls who had gone to the overlook 2 weeks earlier.  He passed on to us that that part of the trail was poorly marked and the creek crossing just before reaching the overlook most likely would be difficult to cross without removing our boots due to the recent rains. So with this information, we decided the hike to the falls only was OK with all of us hikers.

We started our hike around 9am with the temperature in the upper 30's, clear skies, and a light wind. We followed the trail along the creek for just over a mile. By the time we reached the point where the trail began its ascent to the falls, we all had warmed up and part way up we began shedding some of our outer layers of clothing. We arrived at the falls just before noon and had our snacks. There was a group of hikers at the falls that I believe was from the Knoxville area. On our way back, we met quite a few hikers on their way up to the falls. The parking area was packed and cars filled also lined the road into the parking area.

It was a great day for a hike. A crisp, cool, clear fall hiking day was enjoyed by all the hikers on the trail Saturday. We exited the trail shortly after 1pm.

If you would like to see some nice photos taken during this hike, click here.  

 Duane Fritchl, Chair of Awards Committee,

 Duane, I am nominating Robertson “Bob” McGavock for the Bill Stutz Award. Bob has been an active member, hiker, and strong supporter of the Soddy Daisy Chapter since April 2009. This was after the chapter was reorganized after being dormant for approximately 5 years. A little over a year after the chapter was reorganized the chapter again went through a rough period when its leadership abruptly resigned and left TTA. Bob was one of the members who was instrumental in keeping the chapter alive, active, and healthy. Bob served as Chapter Treasurer for approximately 12 years, and as the Chapter Chair in 2012 and is currently Assistant Treasurer. Bob leads hikes, explores new areas and is very knowledgeable of the trails in the surrounding Chattanooga area. He has been very active on the trails assisting with bridge construction, volunteering building trails during the Spring Breakaways with the Cumberland Trail Conference. He has performed hundreds of volunteer hours clearing blocked trails and trail maintenance on the Cumberland Trail. He assisted with erecting state approved signs to identify mining features of Little Soddy Stream Valley. This was the first step towards preserving history of one of the first tunnel coal mine operation complexes in Tennessee. Bob has assisted setting up booths to advertise and promote the Soddy Daisy Chapter for National Trails Day and special events around Chattanooga. Always mindful of recruiting new members. He had an article posted in the TTA newspaper about two hikers passing through Chattanooga on the way to New York to be the first thru hikers of The Great Eastern Trail. Bob and some other Chattanooga hiking enthusiasts met up with the two hikers at Nikki’s Restaurant for lunch and a radio interview. After lunch Bob hiked with the two hikers a few miles as they headed North and continued their hike through the three Soddy Gorges of the Cumberland Trail State Park. It is not surprising that Bob would meet up with and to greet and assist these two hikers. It is just an example of his love, dedication, and support to the hiking community. Bob and his wife Edna have hosted the chapter summer picnic at their home. He is a wood carver and worked on some of the animals on the Carousel located in Coolidge Park in Chattanooga. He donated a piece of his art to be auctioned at one of the annual Meetings. It is a joy and pleasure to hike with Bob with his knowledge, quick wit, gentleman ways and love for hiking. This is just a small example of Bob’s support and dedication to the hiking community. I hope the committee will consider him for the much deserved Bill Stutz Award.

Thank You,

 Jane Ellett, Chapter Chair 

To view a larger image of Bob, please click on the image to the right.  

Ok, all you lazy hikers, where were you.  I admitt this was a longer than normal drive for a relatively short hike, but from what I am told my description of the hike prior to taking it, was a bit misleading.  We hit a beautiful day with full color in the forest making for a wonderful hike.  The five of us had a delightful time.  There was lots of  happy chatter on the way up for the easy-moderate hike of about 3.1 miles and it continued throughout the hike.  The weather was perfect for a hike as the skies were blue and clear.  About half way through, we were peeling off our jackes as it warmed up to a very nice day.  

If you would like to see a few pictures taken during this hike including maps and altitude graphs, click here.  

Signal Pt. to 127 via Cumberland Trail

 It was a beautiful day for a hike as you can see from these pictures.  Due to an error on my part, I don't have a good description of this hike.  If I get the description I will update the Blog.  I'm sure that everyone had a great hike.  

If you would like to see some beautiful pictures of this hike, click here.

Booker T. Washingto S.P. 11.20.2021

 It started out a bit chilly at 8:30A in the mid 50's.  During the hike it began warming up and at about 2/3 of the way through the hike the sun came out and the sky turned a beautiful blue.  Of course at about this time, the stripping off of excess clothing began among the hikers.  We had 11 hikers on this 4.2 mile hike.  I would rate this hike as easy.  Among the hikers were two old friends that hadn't  been hiking for some time and also some new hikers.  It is refreshing to have a new crowd of folks.  We walked the outer loop and there was a lot of chit chat as we ambled througbh the woods. As the weather turned beautiful, the colors of the trees began to really pop.  The hike took just under 2.5hrs.  It had been over one year since I had been to Booker T. and I think everyone enjoyed a very nice hike.  

If you would like to see a few pictures including maps and altitude graphs, click here.  

Possum Creek Gorge 10.23.2021

 Four hikers took on this challenging portion of the Cumberland Trail. It was a bit chilly at the start, but warmed to a comfortable temperature for much of the hike.   Alltrails showed 8.4 miles from the Heiss Mountain trailhead to Stack Rock and back.  We descended into and climbed out of Big and Little Possum Creek gorges to Stack Rock and back for an elevation gain of just shy of 3000 feet according to Alltrails.  Some discussion was had of a future hike through to Retro Hughes, which would involve about 1000 feet less of climbing. It was a strenuous hike of about seven and a half hours, including lunch at Little Possum Creek Bridge. 

There was much to enjoy on this hike – a waterfall near the trailhead, pine forests with needles to soften the path, rhododendrons and hemlocks, deep creek gorges with boulders, and many interesting rock formations.  We were impressed by two trail runners tackling a pretty tough, rocky trail, and spoke with some nice folks we met along the way.  Three of the four hikers were well worn out by the end; the fourth had enough energy for additional exploring near the trailhead.  Everyone seemed to have a nice time.  

For some really nice pictures, please click here.  

Foster Falls 10.26.2021

 It was a great day for a hike.  It was overcast and just a bit chilly.  There were nine of us on this 4.9 mile hike which took us just under 4 hrs.  As you can tell by the time the hike took that we didn't move very fast.  There were lots of overlooks which enabled us to see some fall color.  I'm a bit color blind so I have to take everyone's word for that.  I could tell the the views were absolutely beautiful.  We took a snack at a beautiful overlook and then started our return.  I would rate this hike as easy.  Four of the hikers elected to return via the lower trail.  You can see their picture below the waterfall.  All in all it was a very nice hike and I think everyone enjoyed it.  

If you would like to see a bunch of photos taken during this hike including maps, and altitude chart, click here.  

Sewanee Perimeter Trail 10.19.2021

 This was an absolutely perfect day for a hike.  The temperature was in the mid 60's under a clear blue sky with almost no wind.  There were eleven hikers gathered today for this 4.4 mile hike.  Six of the hikers elected to go a little further, about 1.5 miles, so the hike was about 5.9 miles for them.  This hike took 3hrs and 27 minutes and the average moving speed was 1.8 mph.  It was a very nice hike although there had not been any rain for a few days so some of the smaller falls were only a trickle.  The hike covered just about every type of terrain except large boulders.  We went up and down and around over rocks, dirt, streams and roots.  There was not a lot of undergrowth so we could see well into the forest.  We stayed at Bridal Veil Falls for a bit and had our snacks there before starting our hike back.  The falls were flowing nicely and everyone took pictures.  I would rate this hike as moderate for our club.  Everyone had a very good time and there was lots of conversation among the hikers.  

If you would like to see some pictures from this hike as well as maps and altitude graph, click here.  

Booker T. Washington S.P. 10.16.2021

 Booker T. Washington's Trails have never been my favorite hikes because the trails tended to have excessive roots along the trail that I was always stumbling over and the trails always seemed to be muddier than other trails. Yesterday the trails were transformed – the fallen leaves covered the trails, which made for drier trails and I didn't find myself tripping over the roots. The weather was cool and overcast when we started the hike. It was a welcome beginning after months of hot, humid, or rainy hiking. We hiked all three trails in the park for a total of 7+ miles. 4 of us began our hike going on the outer loop trail in a counter clockwise direction. We proceded to the Inner Loop #2 trail. When we got to the entrance to Loop #2 trail, which was on a point at the edge of Chickamauga Lake, a.k.a. The Tennessee River, the wind was blowing briskly, so we didn't spend much time enjoying the view. We did the inner loop #2 trail and once we were away from the lake, the winds disappeared and we shed our outer garments and had a nice hike through the woods. When got back to the outer loop, the winds picked up again and we proceded to inner loop trail #3 and did that trail. Again once away from the lake, the winds went away and it was a pleasant walk through the woods. Once we finished loop #1 trail and were back on the outer loop, we continued hiking until we almost reached the lower parking lot. We stopped long enough to have our lunch. At that point, the sun had come out, we were out of the wind, and we were able to enjoy the view of the lake and watched a group of sailboats taking advantage of the winds to have a regatta on the lake. We then proceded to upper parking lot trailhead and ended our hike. A very nice hike in my estimation.

If you would like to see a few very nice pictures including a trail map, click here.  

Brush Creek 10.9.2021

 It was a cool foggy morning.  There was absolutely no view at the Boyd Gap overlook, our statarting point to hike Brush Creek in the Cherokee National Forest.  We approached our first wooden bridge, which was passable since the rangers had cut back the fallen tree.  The rest of the trail was rather easy, only a few rocks and gentle ascents and descents as we passed through the forest.  Tulip Poplars grew straight and tall as if standing in silent attention while the Sourwoods flaunteed their red leaves.  The Ocoee river made brief appearances between the tree branches.  As the day warmed, the fog dissipated, the sky becaame a brillant blue.  Creatures appeared, a snail sliding across a stem, a shy black snake hustling into the brush, and a praying mantis posing for her photo op.  We finished our 6.6 mile trail by crossing under the highway 64 bridge to the trailhead just west of Brush Creek as it flows into the Ocoee.  We drove back to Boyd Gap and were greeted by a splended view of the Cherokee mountains.  If you would like to see a few really nice pictures taken during this hike, click here.

Chickamauga Battlefield, 10.5.2021

 It was a dark and ominous day when we ventured off with Jim Ogden, head historian of the Chickamauga Battlefield.  It is always very informative hike when Mr. Ogden leads us and explains some of the battles and other events surrounding the battle at Chickamauga.  On this day, which never rained, we visited Snodgrass Hill and Mr. Ogden explained what happened there.  It is so interesting to hear the history of what actually happened there from both the Confederate and Union sides.  I believe there were eight of us on this hike and not a single complaint.  The temperature ranged from the mid 60’s to the low 70’s on this 3.4 mile hike which I would rate as easy. 

If you would like to see some photographs and a map of this hike, click here.  Also, anyone can identify the fungus I photographed in the fairy ring that I photographed, please let me know.  I have never seen this particular fungus in a fairy ring before. 

Burgess Falls & Windows Cliffs 10.2.21

 I do not have a discription of this hike. I do know that it was a large group and everyone had an excellent time.  If I do get a description, I will post it.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

White Oak Mountain 9.28.2021

 Eleven human hikers and one dog, Holly, trekked up and down and around White Oak Mountain for four miles.  A cool start quickly warmed into a beautiful day with sunshine and blue skies.  A few bikers shared the trail, as we called out, "Biker!" and scattered to the edges of the path.  We also met the scorpion hunters, a group of students (from Southern Adventist University?).  They had collected many scorpions from under the rocks near the top of the mountain and had placed them into plastic baggies.  The crteatures were to be subjects of research.  One study was to discover the lethal dose of the scorpions-Yikes!  The rest of the hike was a pleasant walk in the woods with fine companions.  Just a note;  the venom of the Yellow Scorpion goes for $60,000.00 a gallon!

If you would like to see some very nice pictures, click here.  

Lula Lake 9.25.21

 

It was a beautiful day and four intrepid hikers, including Betsy, Tom, Tammy, and Randy, had a fine time exploring not only the best known sights in the Lula Lake Land Trust but also some lesser known areas. The first part of the hike was a first for most of us—walking down the road from the relatively new parking lot close to the entrance off Lula Lake Road. After about ¾ of a mile, we arrived at the old parking lot, crossed the bridge over Rock Creek, and headed south on the aptly named South Creek Trail. This is a very pleasant trail, first following the southern part of Rock Creek, which placidly wends its way down through the wood with a few gurgles here and there, giving no hint of what is to come a little ways downstream.After a half-mile or so, the trail takes a sharp turn to head gradually uphill along the eastern flank of the creek. We turned right onto the uphill Ovenbird Trail (where did that name come from?) and right again onto the Turkey Trail (hey, an ovenbird!) to continue uphill, arriving at the top to encounter the Bluff Trail near its southern terminus. The geography here is rather odd: Rock Creek somehow managed to dig itself a trench that parallels the mountain bluff for at least a few miles before the creek decided to finally plow its way over the edge of the mountain. Thus the Bluff Trail traverses a little ridge, with the escarpment overlooking Chattanooga Valley to the east and a gentle wooded downslope to the west. As anyone who’s been here knows, there are spectacular views to the east, with Flintstone GA in the valley below us and one mountainous ridge after another rippling off to the eastern horizon. We envied several folks stringing up their hammocks, settling in to enjoy the mesmerizing view.At the northern end of the Bluff Trail, there are three choices for hiking back down to the creek. Naturally, our trip leader Betsy chose to take us down the short but attention-getting High Adventure Trail. The latter includes a couple of steep sections, with knotted ropes aiding in the descent; all reached the bottom without mishap. We took a short right jog on North Creek Trail to take the relatively new Lula Falls Trail, which is a trail-building marvel that makes its way by cliffs and around boulders and rock fields to arrive at Lula Falls. This 120-ft falls was in rare form due to all the rain we’ve had lately, with its spray spreading far and wide. This had the unfortunate effect of making the downstream rocks exceptionally slippery. Naturally, the best photo ops were to be had by going over some of these rocks. It was hard to follow the trip leader’s motto of, “Never trust a wet rock,” since almost all of them were wet. One of our number scared the rest of us by slipping into a crack between two boulders, but despite some loss of blood and getting very wet, had no trouble hiking the rest of the way out. This included scrambling up the Old Falls Trail, which goes straight up a series of wooden steps back to the North Creek Trail. We headed back on this trail, with a stop at the gem of Lula Lake. This lake (really a pond) is a beautiful bluish-green color, surrounded by cliffs and set off by a dazzling white cascade of water plunging into it.Once the highlights of the hike were behind us, we slogged our way back along the creek and up the road to our cars. A fine time was had by all.    If you would like to see a few pictures from this hike, click here.  

Savage Gulf Day Loop 9.21.21

 Tuesdays Savage Gulf Day Loop Trail was a great hike to close the summer of 2021. It looked like we were going to get wet doing this hike, but as it turned out, it was a rain no-show. Four hikers departed the trailhead around 9:20 est and made our way along the trail to the loop section of the trail one mile in. We continued counter clockwise along the loop until we reached the Savage Fall spur loop which took us to the falls. I must say, 2 days of steady rain made for a spectacular falls experience. The creek and falls were cascading more water than I had ever seen before. We enjoyed the experience and completed the small loop and continued on our hike around the day loop. The trail was in pretty good shape despite the days of rain. The suspension bridges were a bit slippery and required a cautious traverse. As we hiked the trail, we observed a massive amount of downed trees. Some were the result of past events, and some recently downed. I would say this trail gets a significant amount of wind during storms moving through the area. Therefore, I would be cautious hiking in the area when storms may be a possibility. We completed our hike around 1:30 with the sun shining and the temperature in the 70's. It was approximately 6 miles of moderate hiking.

Edit;  At the end of this hike we were taking a breather when we saw a very interesting spyder.  It was a wolf spyder and she was carrying here babies on her back.  You can see a picture here if  you aren't to squeamish.  

If you would like to see some pictures of this hike including maps and altitude graph, click here.  

Ozone Falls 9.18.21

 After spending an hour watching several weather channels, Saturday morning and calling the Ranger station at Ozone Falls, I was still having a hard time determing whether to cancel the hike or not. Each forcast predicted rain, but some also predicted scattered storms. So I discussed it with my fellow hiker and decided we would take a chance. We also decided to skip staging our vehicles and do and in and out hike from Ozone Falls instead of Black Mountain trailhead to Ozone Falls trailhead. So two of us left Soddy Daisy and met another hiker at the Ozone Falls trailhead. We departed the trailhead a little after 10 and enjoyed the Falls on the beginning of the hike, instead of the end. Rain was suppose to start at noon, but arrived and hour early at 11. We were an hour into the hike and continued toward Black Mountain until we turned around at noon. It rained continuously once it started, which made for a slippery trail. We safely exited the trail a little past 1 pm. Instead of a 6.7 mile strenous hike, we did a 4.2 mile not quite strenuous hike. There were days this summer, when I prayed for a rain like the one we had Saturday.

If you would like to see some pictures of this hike including a trail map, click here.

Rainbow Lake 9.14.21

 There were only seven of us on this very nice hike.  We started the hike at the parking lot of Rainbow Lake and then hiked down to Middle Creek and the swinging bridge.  I would rate this hike as basically easy with a couple tricky spots.  The nice thing about this 2.7 mile hike is that it is mostly in the shade.  The  two swinging bridges can make just about anyone sea sick if they stand on them too long.  They really move around while you are crossing them.  It took us two hours and 37 minutes to complete this hike. The trail consisted of just about every kind of terrain.  There were rocks, gravel, mud, streams and roots to navigate which made it very interesting.  The trails around middle lake are overused and that combined with runoff from the nearby golf course means the trails are not in the best of shape.  

If you would like to see some photos, maps and altitude graph from this hike click here.

Cumberland Mountain State Park 7.13.2021

 The day started out a little scary and gloomy.  As we gathered in the parking lot prior to departing for Cumberland Mountain State Park, the skies to the East of us were very dark and ominous.  The weather report said that we should escape showers until after lunch, so we took a chance and trusted the report.  Perhaps the iffy weather was the reason for the weak turn out as only 8 bodies showing up for the 5.8 mile hike.  That was too bad for them as we had a delightful hike.  It was partially overcast and relatively cool.  The hike lasted for 4 hrs and 12 minutes, but since the trail was level and followed around a lake and then a creek I would have to rate the hike as easy.  The trail was extremely lush and reminded me of a rain forest.  We didn't see many, but there were certainly a lot of birds nearby as we could hear their cries.  Just past the halfway mark we found an interesting tunnel that we traveled through to get to the other side of a massive boulder field.  Just past the tunnel we stopped for our mandatory snack stop near the Byrd creek.  Amazingly, we made it back to the parking lot with no rain.  Unfortunately, shortely after arriving at the parking lot we heard lots of sirens.  Evidently a hiker had been injured on the trail.  We wish this person the best.  Just as we arrived at the parking lot in Soddy, the sky opened up and we had to make a run to our cars.  Overall, it was a wonderful hike.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike including maps, click here.  

Craven House Loop Trail 7.10.2021

Saturday was another good day for a hike. Although it started out threatening storms and humidity, they appeared only for a short time. Four of us hikers departed Cravens House Trailhead at around 9am. We started out on the Rifle Pits Trail and it was really cool because shortly after arriving at the actual pits site, the short lived storm started and as we donned our rail gear, the thunder made it feal like we were experiencing what it must have felt like long ago when real canon fire filled the air. From the Pits trail, we made our ascent on the Gum Trail up to the Bluff Trail. This was the most difficult part of the hike. It was .6 miles of upward climb, with no switchbacks to ease our ascent. When we arrived at the Bluff Trail, it was another neat experience due to the fact we were up amongst the clouds and the light and atmosphere was truly a sight and experience to behold. We then proceeded to the Mountain Beautiful Trail and had our snack at the memorial site on the trail. I think the Mountain Beautiful Trail might better be titled the Mountain Jungle Trail. A machete would have made a useful tool to have on the trail due to the fact much of the trail was pretty much grown over. We crossed under the Incline Railway and continued on to Hardy Trail. The Hardy Trail part of the hike was the easiest to hike, but to me it was the most uncomfortable. There was very little shade along the trail, and by this time, the afternoon sun was a bit uncomfortable. We arrived back at Cravens House around 2:30 having completed the 6 mile hike – tired but happy we had made the hike, despite the threat of a washout at the start. 

If you would like to see some very nice pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Bay Point Loop, Harrison Bay 7.6.2021

 This was the largest group of hikers we have had since Covid 19, at 13.  We even had a couple of new hikers and some old friends we haven't see for some time.  The hike began under clear skies and nice temperatures.  However, it soon warmed up, but since we were under a canopy of trees it remained bearable throughout the hike.  This hike lasted 2.5 hours and went for a total distance of 4.4 miles.  There were a couple of view points with benches that we took advantage of to sit and rest a minute and eat our snacks.  The view of Harrison Bay was excellent.  I would rate the hike as easy since it was all on level ground.  We followed the hike leader and never once took the wrong trail.  Well done!  All in all it was a very enjoyable hike.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, including a couple maps,  click here.  

Prentice Cooper 7.3.2021

 Unfortunately, there is no write up for this hike although I do know that it was very successful.  

If you would like to see some photos of this hike, click here.  

Ocoee 6.29.2021

 Unfortunately, there is no writeup for this hike, but if you would like to see some nice pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Here is a joke for your entertainment...

I met a beautiful women today and we went walking.  Then she noticed me and we went running!

Craven's House to Sunset Rock 6.26.2021

 Originally this hike was suppose to originate at Ochs Trailhed and proceed to Craven's House via the Bluff Trail and Point Park.  However, me being the turtle hiker that I am, I prefer to hike down, as much as possible, on the return leg of a hike.  So, I reversed the order of the hike and shortened the hike a bit.  The hike was listed as 6 to 7 miles, but as I looked at the trail maps, I realized it was going to be 9 to 10 miles or more.  If the heat and humidity rose during the day, it would make this a bit of a chore for the old-timer that I am.  As it turned out, the heat and humididty didn't show up.  But I still cut the hike from Sunset Rock to Ochs Trailhead on the Bluff Trail.  So it turned out to be a 5+ mile fairly easy hike for a Saturday.  

Three of us departed the Craven's Hous trailhead around 9am and hiked up to Point Park via the Craven's House Trail.  Not a difficult ascent with only one large felled tree across the trail which we got over.  We arrived at Point Park to an entirely different park setting than the last time we hiked there during the Covid restritions.  At that time there was nobody in the park when we arrived.  This time, though not crowded, there were around 50 individuals in the park.  From this point, rather than return to the Bluff Trail and head oward Sunset Rock, we decidedc to hike over to Sunset Rock Trailhead via the road through the Blighted neighborhood along West Brow Road.  I was relieved to see tha "Mountain Folk" are able to survive atop of the mountain.  We stopped at Sunset Rock overlook and had our snacks befor returning to Craven's House.  On the return hike on the Bluff Trail, there wer a few rock climbers that we stopped and watched briefly.  We all decided this sport was not in or ever was in "our buck lists".  We finished the hike before 2 pm-which was early for a Saturday hike.  Got home early enough to have a glass of wine before taking my nap.  

If you would like to see some very nice pictures taken during this hike, click here.  

Connector Trail 9.22.2021

 It rained all day the day before this hike.  Even though the forecast was for a clear day, I guess the prospect of a wet slippery trail kept some of the regular hikers home.  As it turned out it was a grand day for a hike.  The temperature was just right and the sun shown brightly although deep in the forest we only saw glimpses of it.  The start of the hike was a little shakey as I couldn't get my GPS to cooperate and there are many narrow dirt paths that can possibly be taken at the beginning of the trail.  After a couple of false starts, we finally found our way and began the 4.5 mile hike down to Lula Lake Road.  The hike went very well and it was so peaceful and quiet in these woods that everybody was able to enjoy a relaxing hike.  The trail was now easy to follow without any serious obstacles along the way.  Almost everyone commented on the beauty of the forest and stillness.  The six hikers continued down until we reach a bridge near a very bubbly creek where we took a break for a snack.  We then continued down until we reached the staged truck.  

Following the hike we all had our first lunch together at the Purple Daisy in St. Elmo.  This was the first lunch of the season followin the Covid 19 scenario.  

If you would like to see a few pictures from todays hike on the Connector Trail, click here.  

 The 6.6 mile hike from Signal Point Park to Edwards Point is a popular trek.  Even more were on the path as the trail runners were racing.  We gave way to the runners and encouraged them on.  At the beginning of the trail, we descended wooden stairs, rock steps and hopped down where there were no steps.  Lots of rocks, roots and more rocks to reach Middle Creek where we traversed the wooden suspension bridge.  Just before the bridge, was a plaque commemorating Sam Powel, founder of the Cumberland Trail.  Next the rocky limestone blufs arose near the right side of the trail.  We ascended more rock steps to Lockhart's arch (named for three boy scouts who discoved the arch when helping to plan this trail).  By then we reached the rim of the plateau and the trail flattened.  Shortly thereafter we arrived at our destination, Edwards Point.  The view of the Tennessee River Gorge was spectacular!  We saw the Tennessee River extend into the Chattanooga, wind its way around Elder/Raccoon mountain and head past Prentice Cooper State Forest.  After lunch, we went back from whence we came, welcoming a few sprinkles of rain along our way.  

If you would like to see some nice photos taken during this hike, click here.  

Gee Trail 6.15.2021

 Unfortunately, I do not have a write up for this hike, but if you would like to see a few beautiful pictures taken along the way, click here.  

Sting Fork Falls 6.12.2021

 Two hikers decided to endure the hot, humid weather Saturday.  We did a shuttle hike, parking one car at the Stinging Fork Falls trailhead and then the other car at the parking lot for Piney River and Soak 
Creek.  There is a very short roadwalk to begin the trail, which is initially on private land.  For 1.5 miles, the trail follows along Soak Creek with rocky bluffs on the left of the path.  Next, rock steps, very slippery and wet, lead the way up the bluff, followed by a descent to the creek.  And so it goes, up and down, down and up, nature's beautiful stair master.  Eventually a short spur by the creek leads to Stinging Fork Falls, a refreshing refuge to refuel (lunch), cool off and admire the cascading water.  The rest of the hike ascends multiple wooden ladders and rocks to reach the top of the bluff, followed by an easy walk to the trailhead.  The Trail is 7.1 miles with an elebvation gain of 1680 feet. 

If you would like to see some beautiful pictures taken during the hike, click here.   

Greeter Falls 6.5.2021

 June 5: Starting at the Greeter Falls parking lot, our intrepid band of four (Tom, Tammy, Randy, and Betsy) launched ourselves into Big Creek Gulf. The trip leader suggested waiting until we came back to do the extra loop down to Greeter Falls (as she knew we were embarked on a long, difficult trail), but no, the group really wanted to see the falls first (as they knew that they would be too tired at the end of the hike to do any extra mileage). The falls was indeed magnificent, as was the one-way spiral staircase that made the descent possible. There’s a smaller falls just upstream that, while not as spectacular, has a lot of character. Then there is Boardtree Falls, more of a cascade, where the Greeter Falls loop connects back to the main trail. Three waterfalls in less than a mile!Once we descended into the gulf using the Big Creek Gulf trail, we had many opportunities to see the water jumping over and winding around the boulder-strewn creek…until the water disappeared. This is what water likes to do on the plateau. In this particular case the water casually flowed into a small cave, leaving behind all the boulders and rocks. This made it quite easy to get to Ranger Falls, which is on a spur trail on the other side of the abandoned boulders and rocks. This spur trail is very cool, burrowing into a lush green woods that reminded one of the hikers of Jurassic Park. The other hikers concentrated intently for any shudderings in the ground. Ranger Falls was also quite splendid—and of course the water at the bottom of the falls slushed back into caves underneath the falls. One of our hikers, curious as a cat, went down to to check out the disappearing water and found a deep dark cave taking in water that was heading back the way it came. Where is all this water going??Onward we pressed to get to the Stone Door Trail, which involves a lot of uphill before it gets to the Stone Door. This incredible crack in the rock was used by native Americans centuries ago. It must have been a happy surprise to the first ones who discovered it, as it provides a rare and relatively easy way through the towering cliffs. It could, however, be improved by adding an alcove with a bench halfway up.    The best part about the Stone Door is getting to the flat top of the plateau. The Big Creek Rim Trail is a cinch after what we had already traversed: mostly flat, mostly without rocks, and lovely views. It does however have roots that are out to get you. One particularly sinister root got one of us, but she survived to trip another day. The last mile or so back to the cars seemed awfully long. Yet Randy somehow lured all of us to take a short spur to see the remnants of the Greeter homestead. They were hearty people! We felt pretty hearty ourselves, having put 12.6 miles under our feet. The trip leader was mystified as to where the extra mile or so came from. But all’s well that ends well!

If you would like to see some interestin g pictures taken during this hike,  click here.  

Buggy Top Trail 6.1.2021

Tuesday's Buggy Top Trail hike was  "Goldie Locks" hike.  The weather and trail conditions were just right.  It had been almost 2 years to the day since I hiked this trail.  Ten hikers participated in the hike.  We began our hike approximately at 9:30 A with a 1/2 mile 2250 foot ascent and then a 1 1/2 mile 664 ft descent to Lost Cove and Peter Caves.  A couple of our hikers descended into the opening of Peter Cove and explored a short distance in.  We then proceeded to Lost Cove Cave and explored the entrance to the cave.  The short trek down to the cave was steep but like I mentioned, the trail was in good condition and offered no problems during the descent.  We didn't trverse the cave from one end to the other though that is possible to do.,  The conditions at the cave were as if someone had the AC on.  After about a 20 minute exploration of the cave entrance, we began our exit trek.  Due to the ascent, this part of the hike was not quite as pleasant as our inward trek.  The heat and humitity seemed to be a litle higher on the way out.  We finished around 2;30.  The collective consensus was that it was a great ike.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here.  If you are trying to view the pictures and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Virgin Falls 5.29.2021

 The hike leader had the privilege of taking three intrepid hikers on their first trip to one of the strangest waterfalls in Tennessee. As we carpooled up to Sparta and then around to the trailhead, the temperature was in the low fifties and it was raining. As we got out of the car, it stopped raining! We had almost perfect hiking weather. This was so much better than the sweltering days we’d been having in the past week, with highs in the nineties. The NINETIES! In MAY! Luckily for us a storm passed through and dropped the temperature 40 degrees!

 The trail is flat for a while, which is apparently why there were several signs near the trailhead with dire warnings that the trail is strenuous. Indeed it is strenuous, as it becomes rocky and fairly steep as it heads downhill along a beautiful creek which has not one but two fine waterfalls. This creek also provides more evidence that Tennessee is hollow: at the bottom of both waterfalls the water disappears into black holes. Yet each time, the water mysteriously reappears, gurgling along as though popping in and out of the ground were a perfectly normal activity for a creek. Hmmph. It’s too much to handle for Google Maps, which shows no trace of a creek along the trail.

 Most of the way down to the bottom of the creek, we turned right and traipsed down and up for a while, until a final uphill toward Virgin Falls. Yet there is no water coming down from the falls. Don’t waterfalls have to have water? Well actually, waterfalls do not have to have water, as any summer hiker can attest. Yet streams typically leave some sign of their passage, usually rocks. Our hike up the hill was devoid of any signs of a stream—for the simple reason that Virgin Falls doesn’t have a stream below it! At least not a visible stream. The beautiful 110-ft waterfalls spends its last 30 to 40 feet dropping into a giant hole! Not only that, the water coming over the falls comes out of a cave less than 50 feet from the lip of the falls! Our case rests: Tennessee is hollow. Expect a sinkhole in your back yard any day now.

 There were also other odd developments on this trip. For one, we found that the trip back to the parking lot was at least twice as long as the trip in. No one had an explanation, even though someone’s GPS showed that we hiked about 4.3 miles in and ended with a total of about 9 miles. But hey, can the GPS be trusted? It didn’t even know about the creek we saw (at least some of the time). The next oddity occurred as we drove out of the parking lot: it started raining again. There hadn’t been a drop of rain since we got out of the car, just as the rain stopped, about seven hours earlier.  Da de da daa . . . were we in the Twilight Zone?

If you would like to see a few photos taken during this hike, You can see photos by clicking here.  

If you are trying to view the photos from this hike on the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

Gahuti Trail 5.25.2021

 There were eleven of us on this 3.2 mile hike.  It is now summer so we were expecting a pretty hot hike.  However, since we were higher up in the mountains, the temperature was not to bad.  First we had to drop a car off as this was going to be a shuttle hike. We started the hike by taking a slight detour to the nearby overlook.  Wow, what a beautiful sight.  If it weren't for a slight haze in the distance, we could have seen forever!  Next it was on to the fire tower that was constructed by the CCC.  If you will notice, in one of the pictures, a builder of the tower carved a heart out of stone and placed it in the tower as a sign of love for his girlfriend.  Next it was past a prehistoric rock wall constructed, probably, by the Moon Eyed Indians, for unknown reasons.  Now we joined the trail and what a beautiful walk.  It was a little stony in some portions but beautiful all the way.  I saw a wild Azalea that I had never seen before.  Absolutely beautiful.  All along the trail there was greenery and various flowers.  The hike took us 3hrs and 21 minutes.  Except for the traffic on the way home, it was a great hike.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike including map and elevation, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com

 First off, I have to get to some very serious hike business.  On this particular hike, I didn't see anyone wearing their name tags.  This is a very serious violation of the Soddy Chapter Code of  Etiquette.  If I find further examples of this abominable conduct, I will have to report the violators to the Name Tage Police and we surely don't want this.  A violation reported by the Name Tage Police will be on your record forever.  

Now back to the hike.  Did I say it was somewhat rocky?  Well it certainly was.  There were 8 of  us rock hoppers on this hike and surprisingly, 8 returned to the parking lot after the hike was completed.  The woods were gorgeous as we tripped along.  There was lots of chatter until we entered the rocks and then it fell surprisingly quiet.  Unfortunately, when we got to the waterfall it was just a trickle but beautiful none the less.  There we had our snack before making the trek back.  We did have a visitor from Knoxville and he was very welcome and we hope he can come again.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, including an elevation graph and maps, click here.  If you are having trouble viewing the pictures through the TTA website please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Joke of the week...To stay safe around bears, always carry a pocket knife and bring a friend.  If the bear attacks, stab your friend in the leg and run.  

 It was a cloudy and slightly cool day for this easy just under 6 mile hike.  There were no roots or rocks for a change.  At about the 3 mile point we stoped for a snack before we turned around.  There was lots of chatter as the 9 hikers spread out along this trail.  Acturally the temperature was just right as most kept their light jackets on.  All in all a very nice enjoyable stroll in the woods.

If you would like to view some photos taken during this hike including maps, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

This weeks humor..."I don't get it, the trail looked so flat on the map!"

Prater Place & Hemlock Falls 5.8.2021

 Four hikers enjoyed the Saturday hike on the Prater Place and Hemlock Falls Trail in Spencer Tennessee.  The weather was perfect and the 7.9 mile hike very enjoyable.  Though I had hiked this trail several times prior to Saturday, it was the first time I ventured off on the spur part of the trail that took us to the cave.  The hike to the cave was a little tricky.  The trail was overgrown, steep and slippery.  After the visit to the cave we continued our trek to Hemlock Falls.  We crossed several creeks that were surprisingly dry, which made for easy crossings.  We arrived at the falls at noon and had our snacks.  As we ate, we put back on the jackets which we mostly had shed on the 1300+ foot ascent.  The hike back out was a bit faster because the trail is mostly a dowward descent.   As usual, there were plenty of wild flowers to enjoy seeing this time of year.  Even though it was mostly overcast, the newly arrival of green throughout the area was another plus.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike including a map, please click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com

This weeks joke.

How do crazy hikers get out of the hills? ..... They take the psychopath!

Fiery Gizzard Trail 5.7.2021

 Another great day for a hike.  There were ten hikers in a combination hike of the Soddy Daisy and Highland Rim chapters.  The sky was blue and the temperature just about perfect for this 2.7 mile hike which took us 2 hours and 23 minutes.  Most of the hike was along the Big Fiery Gizzard Creek.  The water was flowing nicely allowing for many small waterfalls.  The only negatives were roots and rocks which we encountered most of the way.  Of course the bridge was still down so we were unable to cross the creek.  There has been a lot of work put into this trail along the way with informative stations explaning what the CCC had accomplished.  One aspect of this trail that was really surprising to me was the absolute lack of trash along the entire route and also there was no graffiti anywhere to be found at the Indian Rock House.  Joan of the Highland Rim Chapter led the hike at a very gentle pace assuring that it was less likely anyone would trip and fall.  One unusual aspect of this hike was that there was a great abundance of Lady Slippers in large groupings along the trail.  The hikers then continued to the Grundy Lakes trail for another short hike.  Unfortunately I was unable to remain and do this hike.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike including maps and altitude graph, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

Turtletown Falls 4.27.21

 After a long drive to Ducktown and a short drive on a dirt road we arrived at the trail head.  This hike can be  described as a lollipop.  After a bit of a hike, the trail splits and makes a circle before returning to the split.  There were 11 of us on the easy-moderate 4.5 mile hike.  There were two water falls to be viewed on this hike and we saw both of them.  Since we have been having rain, both falls were flowing with great gusto which made the viewing that much better.  The climb back out from the lower falls was the only moderate part of the hike and that was not bad as it was quite short.  We also saw some varieties of wildflowers that we usually don't see.  Among them were Little Brown Jug, Lady Slipper, Jack-In-The-Pulpit, Dwarf Iris, Solomon Seal and Dog Hobble.  Unfortunately some dummy left his GPS at home, so there aren't any maps or altitude graphs.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike, click here.  If you are trying to view photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

Benton MacKaye Trail 4.20.2

 Here we go again.  After a seven mile drive down a dirt road we found a very nice campground at the trail head.  I say very nice except for one thing, the restrooms.  After once opening the door, no one wanted to be within 100 yards of the place.  The smell was incredible, and not in a good way!  After a short walk up the dirt road to the beginning of the trail head our group of 13 hikers began a very nice 5.4 mile hike, at least for me.  One of the hikers, who shall remain nameless had scheduled an important phone call and needed to return in time to make the call.  I accompanied this hiker, who is one of my best friends, back to the campground where we began looking for a signal.  The rest of the group went a bit longer along the trail which was next to Big Lost Creek.  This creek was flowing with absolutely crystal clear water which was a nice departure from the somewhat turgid water of most of the streams we explore.  The trail was easy and very enjoyable with great views of the creek all along the way.  Everyone had a good time even though we did get a little strung out. We crossed Little Lost Creek with ease and shortely thereafter turned around.  

If you would like to see some pictures, map and altitude graph of this hike, click here.  If you are trying to view the pictures through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Benton Falls 4.13.2021

 Our luck is going to run out one of these days.  It was another near perfect day for a hike.  Nine of us set out on a 3.8 mile hike to benton falls.  Unfortunately, the wildflowers did not cooperate on this hike, but the blue skies, near perfect temperature and a beautiful waterfall still made it a great day.  This hike took us 3 hours which included a stop at the waterfall for lunch.  We started with nine hikers and we ended with nine which was also pretty darn good.  The highlight of this hike was Benton Falls which was flowing at about just the right rate to assure a beautiful falls.  Considering all of the chatter going on among the hikers, I would have to say it was a very successful hike.  

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike including maps and altitude graph, click here.  If you are viewing the pictures through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the Blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Note:  When going to the bathroom in the woods, you're going to have to use the facilitrees.  

Shakerag Hollow 4.6.2021

 Today, we had a nice turnout of seven hikers for a hike on a beautiful day.  I thought our last hike was one of the best ever for wildflowers, but this one was even better.  If you like wildflowers, this is the place to be.  We took the lower trail and found a spur trail that we took just to look at all the flowers.  It was magnificent.  We followed this spur until it reached the road and then turned back.  Going back was like a new trail as the prespective was entirely different and we found views that we had missed.  We rejoined the main trail and continued for some distance until we decided to turn around and retun.  I would rate this hike as moderately easy with a distance of  3.75 miles.  Due to the stops for picture taking our moving average speed for the first part of the trail was a record slow pace of 0.8 mph.  We later picked up the pace and our final moving average was 1.6 mph which was still very slow.  Our hike leader patiently let us continually stop for more pictures.  Excellent hike!

If you would like to see a bunch of photos taken during this hike, including flowers, map and graph, click here.  If you are having trouble viewing these photos through the TTA website you can go directly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

Rock Creek

 Rock Creek loop was our hiking destination on Saturday.  The 6.8 mile trek began at the lower Leggett trailhead.  We hiked the connector section to the loop.  The toothwort flowers were too cold to unfurl their petals but the rest of the wildflowers displayed their colors bravely; yellow trillium, red & yellow buckeyes, white rue anomones, blue phlox with a few purple wild geraniums & the understated violets & bluets.   A short spur took us to the creek's edge to admire the cascading water.  At the top of the loop, we rocked-hopped easily across Boiling Springs - the washed out bridfge long gone.  Rock Creek overlook was our turn around point, a spectacular view of the bluffs & valleys of the Cumberland plateau.  Back on the loop, hiking through the towering pines which provided us a soft trail of needles, we followed the next spur to Leggett Point overlook.  Another fine view & time for lunch.  By then, the sunshine & blue sky warmed us.  Shedding our coats we finished the loop & returned to the trailhead by retracing our steps on the connector trail.  

If you would like to see some really nice pictures taken during the Rock Creek hike, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Sitton Gulch 3.30.21

 The hike leader pried 12 hikers out of bed for this hike.  What a perfect day.  Clear and sunny with delightful temperatures.  There was plenty of water flowing in the creek and the waterfall was flowing with gusto.  We did get our feet wet as we had to cross a stream flowing across the trail, but we all made it safe and sound.  As hoped, it was a great day for wild flowers.  As you can see from the pictures, there was a great variety of flowers available to be seen.  Everyone had a very sucessful hike 

If you would like to see a bunch of photos taken during this hike including map shots, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the blog at sdctta.blogspot.com.

Elsie Holmes Nature Park 3.23.21

 I had complete forgotten about this very nice little park.  Our group of six hikers arrived shortly after 9:00A.  We had to wait and arrive no sooner than 9:00 since that is when the gate opens.  Our hike leader, Tammy, had a very nice route planned for us through the park.  As we wound our way through the park we had some very nice views and the spring wildflowers were coming out.  There was a tree with a big holw, a dinosaur tooth and mysterious paw prints.  If you look at the pictures you will wonder who is the idiot that stopped on the railroad tracks?   We took quite a few pictures of the flowers as we went along.  You can see a couple of the flowers on the blog.  The first trail didn't wear us out, so we decided to take one of the other trails.  According to my GPS, our total hiking distance was 3.5 miles.  I would rate this hike as easy.  If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go directly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.  

Oswald Dome 3.6.2021

 Four hikers ascended the Oswald Dome, a knob on top of Bean Mountain in the Cherokee National Forest.  After an inauspicious start on the wrong trail, a little bush wacking to find the correct trail, a few trips and falls, we started a gradual constant ascent.  A few places on the trail were a bit steeper.  We hiked through conifers, hardwoods, laurels and rhododendrons; saw the valley aroun Benton and mountain peaks towering over the Hiwassee river.  The top of the mountain was filled with communication towers and no real view, but was a good lunch site.  The rest of the hike was all down hill, retracing our steps.  It was a little longer, 8.9 miles, than advertised, but what a wonderful way to pass the day with blue sky and a cool breeze.  

If you would like to see some photos taken during this hike, click here.  If you are trying to view the photos through the TTA website and having trouble, please go direcvtly to the blog at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.

Sherwood Forest Day Loop 3.2.21

 What a nice day for a new hike in the COVID era.  Since it is unethical to say just how many hikers participated in this hike since officially we were limited to 10 I will just say we had 10+1 hikers on this day.  Of course we all drove our own cars since this is TTA policy and everyone made it to the trail head in spite of the fact that most had never been there before.  It was a great hike of 3 miles and it took us just 2 hours and 36 minutes wih a moving average of 2.0 mph.  There were great views of distant mountains and the natural bridge was beautifule as you can see from the pictures.  If you would like to see these pictures, please click here.