Aetna Mountain Loop Trail 10.31.2023

 This is a relatively new trail, so the 16 of us hikers set out to explore this area.  It was a lovely day for a hike.  This was the first cold day we have had for a hike with the temps starting out in the 40's and gradually warming up during the day.  The sun was intermittent throughout the morning and the turning fall leaves were beautiful.  This hike was one I would rate as easy and went for 3.9 miles.  Following the hike a group of us went to The 5 Amigos for lunch.  Mine wasn't so good, but everyone else seemed to enjoy there lunch. 

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

Mount Joy Trail 10.28.2023

 A beautiful October day, some great hiking friends both old and new, a woodland trail, long but forgiving - what a great day.  Yes, it got a little warm, and yes, we took the sunny side back, but a good time was had by all.  We even had some great, new potential Hike leaders who got us in  and got us out - all of us!  Total distance about 8 miles.  

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

Point Disappointment & Potters Ridge Trail 10.24.2023

 Our quest was to find the legendary picnic table on the Point Disappointment and Potter Ridge Trail.  Tales were told of its exquisite beauty, that there were hammocks to lay in, a gazebo unter which to shelter, and even a food truck.  Our merry bad of 12 followed a rock trail, down, down, down into the Valley of the picnic Table, but alas, we were thwarted by the evil hike leader who called "time" and made us turn back.  Much like the name of this hike, we were disappointed but look forward to a renewal of the quest to sit on the elusive picnic table.  

If you would like to see some very nice pictures taken during this hike, click here or on the photo above.  

Mabbitt Springs Trail 10.17.2023

 I wasn't able to attend this hike, but from what I hear, it was a great hike.  There were 11 hikers that attended this hike and the weather and views were exceptional.  The hike was about four miles in length and not too difficult.  There was one issue where three of the hikers did get separated from the group and were lost for a short period.   Thankfully they were in cell phone contact and everyone was reunited.  One of the lost hikers was quite disturbed however and may not hike with us again.  This points out the importance of the hike leader setting a pace that is suitable for even the slowest hikers.  If the group becomes strung out, it is important for the leader to stop periodically and check to see that the sweeper is in contact and that everyone is accounted for.  

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

Raccoon Mtn. Live Wire 1&2 10.14.2023

 The Ring of Fire Solar Eclipse hike was a pleasant fall hike.  Weather was good with low temperature and humidity.  We started at the top of Raccoon Mountain at the East Overlook and descended to the river-side trailhead via the Live Wire 1 & 2 Trails.  Once we left the overlook, we hiked about 2/3 the distance to the bottom and stopped long enough to have our snacks.  Just short of exiting the trail shortly past 1 pm, the eclipse took place, but the only thing we noticed, was a slight dimming of the light.  The sky was partially cloudy and we were on the western side of the mountain.  I think these two factors led to the limited eclipse experience - along with being quite a distance east of the line of totality.  I believe we encountered only 3 trail bikers on the hike.  It was an easy 7+ mile hike.

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