Stringer's Ridge, 6.25.2024

 We have been having a hot spell here so we are starting our hikes earlier.  We were a little surprised this time.  When we arrived at the trail head, it was actually quite cool.  This was quite the pleasant change.  It didn't take long for the weather to warm up however.  This 3 hour hike consisted of multiple ups and downs providing plenty of exercise. We enjoyed an incredible view of downtown Chattanooga from the overlook, drank plenty of water and talked most of the way for the 3.3 mile hike.  Following the hike a group of hikers went downtown for brunch.  

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

The littlest mermaid wears an algebra to math class.  

John Muir Trail 6.22.2024

 Six hardy hikers braved the heat and humidity to travel a section of the John Muir trail along the Hiwassee river. We started at the Apalachia Powerhouse, literally at the end of the road and walked into what seemed like a jungle. It was a little overgrown in areas, occasional muddy and rocky bluffs. When the bugs started swarming and the sweat dripping, we decided to turn around and shorten the hike. Next time we will do the trail in cool weather and when the bugs and weeds diminish.

 We witnessed a good Samaritan rescue a stranded fisherman. Apparently, the fisherman didn’t realize when the loud horn sounds, TVA releases water stored in the powerhouse and floods the previously rocky and shallow river. The guy was on an island with water rushing all around. A rescue rope, strong arms helped the man back safely to shore.

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

First restaurant opens on the moon, great food, no atmosphere!

St. Elmo, 6.18.2024

A dozen Scenic City hikers walked through the beautifully shaded Forest Hills Cemetery to see the final resting place of many of those responsible for the growth of Chattanooga.  Our urban hike continued for a few blocks past impressive old homes to the hawkins Ridge footpath.  Only the sounds of traffic indicated that the wooded, hilly path was in the middle of the city.  Coming back to the city streets, we had a quick break for treats from the Hot Chocolatier before taking the Virginia Avenue Greenway back to our cars.  

If you would like to see a few pictures taken during this hike, including a map, click here.  

The Procrastinator's meeting has been postponed indefinitely.  

Cloudland Canyon 6.15.2024

Six hikers went on the Cloudland Canyon hike.  The hikers were Larry, Tom, Linda, Joan,  Martina and Julia.  We spent the day visiting every waterfall and overlook in the park.  Three hikers had never been to Cloudland Canyon before.  The group hiked the Overlook Trail, the Waterfalls Trail and the West Rim Trail.  The hikers were from Ringgold, GA, Soddy Daisy, Ooltewah, Winchester, Murfreesboro and Memphis.  

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

I looked up opaque, the definition wasn't very clear.  

Short Springs State Natural Area 6.11.2024

 This was an absolutely perfect day for a hike.  It was cool, especially in the morning and remained cool for the duration of this hike.  It was a rather long drive for us, about one hour, but it was worth it.  There were 11 of us on this hike.  This hike was about 4.3 miles and lasted about 3 hours and 40 minutes.  There were several waterfalls, Machine, Adams, and Busby. with Machine being by far the best.  It was just beautiful with lots of water flowing.  After this hike we drove a short distance to Rutledge Falls which was also spectacular.  This was just a short walk from the a parking area.  Following all of this everyone went to eat at The Celtic Cup Coffee House which was a delightful experience.  Good food, but rather erratic service.  This might have been because of the size of our group.  All in all a great day.  

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

I got my wife a new fridge.  Her face lit up when she opened it!