Tennessee Hikes - 2012



FEBRUARY 11TH - Leatherwood Loop Trail in Big South Fork NP. This strenuous Loop offers a variety of scenery and a large diversity of trees. We will follow the O & W Trial along the river and as it leaves this trail we will climb approximately 500 feet to the gorge rim where a spur trail leads to an overlook. This trail goes thru open woods and the edge of an old oil field and eventually follows the old Leatherwood Ford Rd before beginning a steep descent into the gorge and returning to Leatherwood Ford parking area. This trail in 3.5 miles but will take approximately 3 hours to complete. To carpool from Knoxville, meet in the back parking area of Cracker Barrel at Merchants Rd Exit off I-75 North at 8am E.T. or at the trailhead at 10am E.T. Pre-registration is required by contacting Rosie at rosemary_L@hotmail.com or 865-951-8317


FEBRUARY 25TH - House Mountain Trail. This afternoon (2pm E.T.) hike is rated moderate to strenuous because of the rocky terrain and excessive elevation. We will meet at the trailhead parking area. If the weather does not permit, this hike will be rescheduled. Call Rosie for confirmation 865-951-8317


MARCH 3RD - GSMNP - Old Sugarlands Trail and spur to Sugarlands Cemetery. Beginning behind the Sugarlands Visitors Center along US-441, this trail reveals a lot of Park history, such as an old quarry used to build the first paved road over the mountains, old telephone poles, stone walls, an old CCC Camp, and a large cemetery. This hike is on relatively flat ground with no big climbs or creek crossings, and is suitable for all levels of hiking experience. Hike distance is a little less than 6 miles RT and is rated easy. Wear clothing appropriate for early March weather, sturdy shoes and bring lunch and water. We will dine at the cemetery, our planned turnaround point. Meet at 10AM ET in front of Sugarlands Visitors Center (Main front door). Pre-registration is suggested. Email Rosie rosemary_L@hotmail.com


MARCH 17TH - GSMNP - Schoolhouse Gap Trail. It starts at Laurel Creek Rd for 1.1 miles, turn onto Turkeypen Ridge Trail for 3.4 miles, turns onto Finley Cane Trail for 2.8 miles, turns onto Bote Mountain Trail for about 1/2 mile and then Laurel Creek Rd. Total is about 9 miles. This is a moderate hike at lower elevation over rolling terrain. We will meet at the trailhead at 10am ET. Pre-registration is suggested. Email Rosie at rosemary_L@hotmail.com