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.