Bay Point Loop Trail 3.4.2025

 The hike on the Bay Point Loop Trail at Harrison Bay State Park was a delightful walk through the park. The weather was pleasant and the trail was in good condition. Aside from a few stumbles on the numerous roots on the trail, we suffered no injuries and everyone was accounted for at the end of the hike. We were able to enjoy the views provided by Lake Chickamauga and the wooded section of the park. We were also able to enjoy witnessing the turf-battle between a bald eagle and a seagull – it was of course won by the eagle that easily drove the seagull from the disputed territory. We also were able to have a new hike leader in training lead the hike for her first outing. Susan did such a good job, that I’m sure Will is crating up a cat to presented to her for a job well done. This was an easy 4.3 mile hike.

If you would like to see some nice pictures taken during this hike click here or on the picture to the right.

Beer cures what ales you.  

Weed Wrangle 3.1.2025

 National Weed Wrangler Day March 1, 2025

 The National Park Service and Reflection Riding sponsored local weed wrangling at the Kiddie Trail on Lookout Mountain Tennessee.

17 folks showed up to support clearing invasive privet and honeysuckle along the trail.

 Acres of clearing impacted near the trailhead at the base of the mountain and offers easier access and visibility for hikers and trail runners climbing  up and down popular Lookout Mountain.

90% of a relationship is deciding where to eat.  

Bauxite Murky Marsh 2.25.2025

 This Tuesday morning, 23 hikers (a record-breaking attendance for me!) met at this trail in Apison, TN.  It was a great morning for a hike! As we arrived, the temperature was in the low 30’s but quickly jumped into the 50’s by the time we finished. After hiking in about 1.5 miles, it was decided we would break into two groups (racers – faster hikers & pacers – slower hikers).  Both groups trekked about 2.6 miles to the top of the bluff and enjoyed a short break before returning along Rolling Ridge Trail and back to the Murky Marsh Trail to begin our decent to the main trailhead.  All in all, everyone seemed to enjoy getting out on this very pleasant morning and exploring this newer trail. The total hike was about 4.5 miles with 300+’ elevation gain.

 Several folks asked about the history behind Bauxite Ridge.  This is what I found:

The site was a large mining operation back in the 1930’s and 1940’s.  Bauxite was discovered back as early as 1906.  Bauxite is a sedimentary rock with relatively high aluminum content and is the main source for aluminum.  It appears the land was later gifted to Southern Adventist University around 2015 and they created about 12 miles for hiking/biking and also now maintain these trails.

If you would like to see some very nice pictures click here or on the picture to the right.  

Don't die a virgin. Terrorists are up there waiting for you!

Laurel Snow 3.1.2025

 I don't have a hike report from this hike, but if I get one, I will add it to the post.

If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here or on the picture to the right.