Audubon Trail 5.2.17

On today's hike there were seven human hikers and one hike leader Maddie (K9).  The hike distance was approximately three miles downhill to the cabin at the bottom.  The human leader of this hike was Renee, the queen of Sale Creek.  The temperature was in the mid 70's with no wind.  The group did manage to flush a wild turkey that made quite a ruckus trying to get airborne amidst the foliage.   There were several trees down, but nothing could stop this group.  I would rate the hike as easy, as long as they didn't attempt the return hike.  There was plenty of water along the way as there had been lots of rain in the preceding days.  If you would like to see several pictures, click here.

McGill Creek 4.30.17

George and Boodie decided to take their own hike to McGill Creek.  As you can see from the pictures, they had a great time.  They started early in order to get there and back before it became too hot.  I would rate this hike as moderate.  I you would like to see a whole lot of pictures, click here.

McGill Creek 4.26.17

This hike included John and George.  They hike a recently completely segment from Upper Leggett Road to McGill Creek.  The distance was approximately four and a half miles to five miles and was rated moderate due to a couple of steep inclines.  The weather was perfect and there were several good waterfalls.  The water was running well due to the recent rainfall.  If you would like to see some gorgeous photos, click here.

White Oak Mtn.

There were ten hikers on this relatively easy hike of about four miles.  The group started at the bottom of the mountain and then hiked up to the ridge and followed the ridge line as far as it went.  The group saw several turtles (Eastern Box Turtle) and a quick to disappear snake (unidentified).  It was a little disappointing that there weren't many flowers.  It was an absolutely gorgeous day for a relatively easy hike.  If you would like to see some pictures, click here.

Pickett S.P. 4.11.17

 

On April11, The Soddy Daisy Chapter of the Tennessee Trails Association packed up and headed for a three day adventure in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. We had excellent accommodations in the 3 bedroom deluxe cabins at Pickett State Park located approximately 2 miles from the western park entrance and very near the trails that traverse one of the most diverse geological areas in the eastern U.S.

The first afternoon we began by exploring Hazard Cave, an Indian rock house, the swinging bridge over a beautiful little lake and the natural bridge, all at Picket State Park.  The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we headed for the Twin Arches and Charit Creek Loop trails. It soon became clear that this was no ordinary hike.  From the first view of two of the largest natural arches west of the Mississippi River to the cavernous rock houses that seem to appear around every turn in the trail, we were all captivated. We soon found ourselves in a beautiful valley literally walking among wild flowers and beside a babbling brook.  We lunched at the picnic tables at the Charit Creek hostel where we relaxed while enjoying picturesque views.  Afterwards we were faced with a long steep slog up the other side of the loop back to the arches with some challenging stairs, up to the top of the arches and the end of the loop.

Following a refreshing shower and lots of spaghetti, we relaxed around the campfire and prepared for our hike on the Middle Creek Trail on our last morning. Again, we were not disappointed, lots more beautiful rock houses, and a forest of Hemlocks, Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. Would love to return in a month when they are in full bloom.

This area is surely a keeper.  To see some pictures of this hike, click here.