Cherokee Hiking Club Calendar
2023
Hike Difficulty Rating Scale (per Chattanooga Hiking Club)
CHC Hike Calendar for 2023 - good for printing
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Benton MacKaye Trail Assn Hike
Schedule
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info at 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST - Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
JANUARY 1, 2023 SUNDAY - FENTON FOREST ON BAUXITE RIDGE - COLLEGEDALE TN -We will leisurely hike the two-mile, easy picturesque Sabbath Trail loop and then, if we want to continue hiking, we will hike the one-mile Oak Hole Lane back to the main trailhead junction. There is a short steep uphill at the beginning to the trailhead junction (and downhill on the way back). A trailhead restroom facility was being built recently so we shall see if it's finished! Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for information on meetup time and place. Trip Report: We had a great group of hikers for our First Day Hike! The weather was foggy and atmospheric to start, then suddenly the sun burst through! We inspected the new pavilion being built at the trailhead; then we started hiking the Sabbath Trail, part of Southern Adventist University's trails system. It's an easy two-mile walking-only trail with picturesque bridges and views of pastures and the campus. We saw mahonia full of berries and many mushrooms. We finished by hiking one mile on Oak Hole Lane bike trail as we listened to the train whistle. It was a fantastic way to begin the new year! Visitors Kelly Ducham and Rebecca Parker joined members Jack and Margaret Callahan, Jennifer Schroll, Mitchell Schroll, and Hike Leader Judy Price. • Judy Price
JANUARY 5, 2023 THURSDAY - WHITE OAK MOUNTAIN TRAILS COLLEGEDALE TN - We will leisurely hike approximately three easy-to-moderate miles from Trailhead #1. Anyone who wants to continue hiking on the many trails is free to do so but will need to provide their own transportation. There are restroom facilities at the trailhead (if they are unlocked). Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for information on meetup time and place. Trip Report: Nine hikers (including one canine!) met at Trailhead #1 in Collegedale on a beautiful day. This is a complex trail system available to hikers, runners, and mountain bikers on Southern Adventist University's campus. There are map signposts at each trail junction (as on Fenton Forest on Bauxite Ridge). We began hiking on Dogwood Lane, walking along the creek, crossing bridges, and pointing out mushrooms, lichens, and wildflowers such as crane fly orchids. We took the trail to the end (Trailhead #2), then backtracked to the Six Shooter trail junction where several trails meet. One member of our group had sat there and waited on us, so we gathered back together and returned on Rolling Green. Jack pointed out wood ear mushrooms and a branch cut by a girdle beetle. Then, as the sun shone on us, we reached the trailhead after hiking about three miles. We had a wonderful group: Guests Lauren Thomas and River Hanberry; and members Kelly Ducham, Rob and Janet Coombs, Bob Dornfeld and Smoky, Jack Callahan, and Hike Leader Judy Price. • Judy Price
JANUARY 8, 2023 SUNDAY 2 PM -
ANNUAL PLANNING MEETING - ETOWAH TN SENIOR CENTER - Do you want to lead a hike or event? If so, bring your ideas to our annual planning meeting! Be sure to include all details in writing to turn in including date, time, description, hike difficulty, entrance fees, etc. If you cannot attend, you may email the information to cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com. See you there! Mtg Report: The club met at the Etowah Senior Center for the annual development of the event calendar. This year, we had a great turnout and a lot of interesting events were placed in the calendar. The year 2023 will be a great year with hikes, backpacking trips, a canoe trip, and several camping trips to local and neighboring state parks. This year, we will be adding a couple of birding events as we have birders in the club! There will also be numerous speakers at the club meetings and several slide presentations. The door prize this month at the meeting was won by Leslie Auriemmo. Don't forget to sign the signup sheet to be eligible to win! • Jack Callahan
January 19, 2023 THURSDAY Breakfast at Old Fort Restaurant Meet at 8:30 am. Contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 for additional information.
January 27, 2023 FRIDAY Westmore Church of God Game Dinner and Outdoor Expo. The expo doors open at 5:00pm. The Club will have a table displaying information about the Hiking Club and a series of slides via laptop to illustrate events that the club is involved in. At 6:00 pm the doors will open for the Game Dinner; cost is $20.00 per person. The dinner ticket also allows you to be eligible for the prize drawings, which include a wide variety of very good items. Some of the things given away last year included kayaks, tents, fishing gear, shotguns, and trekking poles, to mention a few. To purchase tickets, go to the Westmore Church of God website. Jack or Margaret Callahan and Jennifer Schroll will be staffing the club display table. For additional information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885. Event Report: Nine club members attended the event and everyone helped with the Club display table, talking to persons interested in the Cherokee Hiking Club. There was a lot of interest and we possibly picked up a few new members. From there, we attended the Wild Game supper, which included alligator, wild board, beef, and several other types of wild game. Following the meal, most of us joined in the prize raffle drawing. There were some great prizes including mountain bikes, kayaks, tents, coolers, fishing gear, shotguns, and first aid kits. Unfortunately, none of us won anything, but it was a fun evening! • Jack Callahan
January 28, 2023 SATURDAY Maintenance Day to work on the Childer's Creek Trail. We will be working on restoring some of the tread in an area about a mile or so in. We will be joined by others from the Benton Mackaye Trail Association to help complete this task. They will furnish the tools but you will need to wear boots, bring your work gloves, and at least two liters of water and snacks. They will furnish hard hats and safety glasses if you do not already have those. After work that afternoon, a volunteer will be serving us a meal. So please bring a $5 donation to help pay for that. We really can use your help, so I hope you will put this on your calendar. Also, I do need to know how many will be helping so I can turn in a number to the chef to ensure enough food is prepared. You may text me-James Anderson-at 423-715-8824 to let me know you will be helping. We will meet at the Big Bend parking lot at 9 am. That's on the road that goes from Reliance up to the Powerhouse and where trout fisherman often park. Trip Report: There was an amazing turnout of 32 volunteers who came to help with maintenance on the Club's section of the Benton MacKaye Trail/John Muir NRT known as the Childers Creek section. Of these volunteers, at least 11 were members of our own Cherokee Hiking Club. Thanks to all, we were able to rehab a section of the trail midway of the bluff area and saw out several large trees that had recently blown down. At this point, we can certainly say the trail is in great shape and hopefully will not need any significant attention until spring. In addition to these volunteers, we encountered a group of Scouts and their leaders who were hiking this section and picking up any litter they found. Much appreciation to Nelson, who is the new TN/NC Maintenance Director, for arranging this work day and for Chef Patty who prepared us a trailside lunch that was waiting on us when we finished. Also, a special thanks to our Club members in no special order: Jennifer, Doug, Leslie, Janet, Rob, Harry, Anne, Mary, Clare, Ed, and James. My apologies if I missed anyone. • James Anderson
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info at 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
February 3, 2023 FRIDAY Walk in the Woods, a walk using the two loops at the Johnston Woods Retreat off Highway 11 just south of Cleveland. The first loop is 1.2 miles and the second is 2.9 miles for a total of 4.2 miles if you walk both. It is considered easy with little elevation change. It passes through both pine and hardwood forests and provides a pleasant hike close to town. The hike leader is James Anderson. Text at 423-715-8824 if you want to be advised of any changes and/or hike cancellation. If that isn't an issue for you, then you can just show up at the trailhead parking area at the designated time. Meet at the trailhead at 10am.
February 9, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Bring your favorite dish for the potluck dinner. The club will furnish drinks, cups, and eating utensils. The program is Navigation of Trails Part One (basics of reading a USGS topographic map, with a discussion on contour lines, map scale, and magnetic declination to name a few by Jack Callahan and a discussion on compass/map navigation by Jennifer Schroll). This presentation will be an introductory session for the upcoming club event on February 11 at Harrison Bay.
February 11, 2023 SATURDAY Harrison Bay Map/Compass Orienteering Course Put your map and compass skills to the test on this 1.5-mile orienteering course set up at Harrison Bay State Park. Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride commuter parking next to Mapco at I-75 and Hwy 60 at 9 am. Bring a phone to take a picture of the map on the kiosk and bring a compass to keep you "on course." This activity is rated easy, but beware there is not a trail, so some terrain will be rough. Contact Hike Leader Jennifer Schroll at 423-284-1256 or jennifergeologist@gmail.com. Trip Report: Jack Callahan, Anne Anderson, and Hike Leader Jennifer Schroll completed the orienteering course at Harrison Bay State Park. Club member Judy Price, trying out her new hip, and her friend, Cindy, were at the starting point to send us on our way. The course has 12 control points that you locate by orienting and then finding landmarks on your map. Control Point #3 marker is missing, but we found all the control points. Jack turned on his GPS at control point #6 and estimated that we walked over three miles. A little cold, but a great day. We stopped for a yummy BBQ lunch on the way home. • Jennifer Schroll
February 16, 2023 THURSDAY Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant, Cleveland at 8:30 am. Contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 for information.
February 18, 2022 Rock Creek Trail in Little Frog Wilderness - We will meet at the Thunder Rock Campground parking lot at 9 a.m. for the quick car shuttle to the trailhead. The hike is approximately eight miles beginning at the Rock Creek trailhead on Hwy. 64 and returning via the Dry Pond Lead Trail (Benton MacKaye Trail). There is a small stream crossing at Laurel Creek , which is usually easy, but crossing Rock Creek will require fording the cold-water stream. Water shoes and hiking poles for balance are highly recommended. Along the way there should be great views of the nearby mountains as the trail goes up the side of Panther Knob and into the beautiful Pressley Cove where Rock Creek is encountered. This hike is considered strenuous due to the length of the hike and several moderate climbs; it is not for beginners. The hike will be canceled in the event of snow/ice on the roads. Contact Hike Leader Randy Morris at 423-650-0485 if interested in attending. Trip Report: After a close-up view of the Ocoee River (which was still raging from recent rainfall) at Thunder Rock Campground, we decided to swap the planned Rock Creek hike (with what would have been a deep, and potentially dangerous, creek crossing) for a hike up Section 11e of the Benton MacKaye Trail. We trekked up to the BMT to the beginning of the West Fork/Rough Creek Trail and then explored other bike/hiking trails in the area, including Thunder Rock Express and Rhododendron Trails, on our way back to the vehicles. We briefly spoke with a group just returning from a three-day adventure on Big Frog where they had braved the rainstorm, which later turned to ice, and a chilly 19-degree morning at their campsite. We were glad we had not slept on the mountain and were instead enjoying a brilliant winter hiking day with beautiful clear blue skies and crisp temperatures. Enjoying the time outdoors were James Anderson and Hike Leader Randy Morris. • Randy Morris
February 20, 2023 MONDAY Rhododendron Trail at the Ocoee White Water Center Easy beginner hike of approximately 1.2 miles along the Ocoee River on a graded trail. For meetup time and location contact Clare Sullivan at 404-849-0872 of clare7982@gmail.com.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info at 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST - Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
March 5, 2023 SUNDAY Lula Lake Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride at 9:00am. There is a maximum of 12 spots for this hike and we must carpool in three vehicles. This hike is 4.5 mile, rated easy to moderate. About 700-foot elevation change, or rest near the lake, about 2 miles all flat. We will hike the classic loop, which includes Lula Lake, Lula Falls, and a bluff overview of the Chattanooga Valley. Bring snacks and water. Lunch stop in Chattanooga after the hike. Hike leader Jennifer Schroll 423-284-1256, Jennifergeologist@gmail.com.
March 7, 2023 TUESDAY Black Mountain, Tennessee, portion of the Cumberland Trail Approximately 9 miles with about 1600-foot elevation gain. Moderate to difficult due to the length. See a cave, great rock formations, old spring house and building foundations of a former residence. Meet at Spring City McDonalds at 9:00 am EST to carpool to the trailhead. Text Sue Robinson at 423-519-9751 if you plan to attend.
March 9, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Meet at the Etowah Senior Center, 435 Cooper Street, Etowah at 6:00 pm for a pot luck supper, and a brief business meeting, followed by a presentation by Ms. Savana Keeton. Ms. Keeton is the Operations Coordinator for the Cumberland Trails Conference. She will give us an overview of the CT, status of portions to be completed, and primary things going on with the trail.
MARCH 13, 2023 MONDAY - HIWASSEE/OCOEE RIVERS STATE PARK LOOP TRAIL Join us on this impromptu spring hike! We will leisurely hike the Gee Creek Campground Loop Trail at Hiwassee/Ocoee Rivers State Park. It is an easy 1.4-mile hike. We will see wildflowers and hike along the Hiwassee River part way. There are restrooms at the Visitor Center. Bring water and snacks. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details!
Monday, Mar. 20 MONDAY - Caney Creek Trail Rating: Moderate/Difficult Length: 6 miles See the remains of the historically popular village of Caney Creek. The village was built by Eastern TN Power Co in 1918 for employees. Being very modern for 1918 – 1944, the village enjoyed public sidewalks, city water, fire hydrants, telephones, a lighted tennis court, plus public transportation via a trolley. Located on the Ocoee River, Hwy 64, Polk County. Contact Clare Sullivan at 404-849-0872 or clare7982@gmail.com
MARCH 23, 2023 THURSDAY - RED CLAY STATE PARK - Join us on this impromptu spring hike! We will leisurely hike the short but moderate 1.7-mile Council of Trees Trail and walk the Blue Hole Trail and Cherokee Homestead and Council Grounds Interpretive Trail. If the Visitor Center is open, we can choose to check it out before we leave. There are restrooms at the Visitor Center. Bring water and snacks. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details!
March 27-30, 2023 MONDAY-THURSDAY Backpack on the Benton Mackaye Trail from the Blue Ridge GA area to the Thunder Rock Campground on Highway 64. This trip crosses many of the ridges that can be seen from the Cleveland area. With the leaves still off the trees we should have some nice views toward both the west and east of the ridgelines. The trip is considered strenuous and will cover approximately 38-40 miles. More details will be released later in regard to proposed daily hike lengths and other logistical information related to shuttles etc. If you are interested please contact James Anderson the hike leader at 423-715-8824 so you can be included in any of those discussions. As we get closer to the anticipated hike dates, if the weather is forecasted to be especially rainy or cold, then we will make a decision about whether or not to cancel the trip.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
April 1, 2023 SATURDAY Walls of Jericho Hike Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride at 8:30 am. This is an 8+ mile hike, rated moderate to strenuous, due to the elevation and an area of poor trail tread. After the trip to the area, we will do a short car shuttle to the TN Hiker Trailhead and descend approximately 1500 feet into Mill Creek gorge. We will cross over Mill Creek and Turkey Creek, passing through a campsite and old graveyard, and make our way along a difficult section of trail to the Walls of Jericho. The walls are a unique karst feature appearing and disappearing streams, and a natural amphitheater in the streambed made of limestone with numerous fossils. Picturesque water features abound. On our return, we will take the trail to the Alabama trailhead, approximately 2.5 miles of steep incline, Bring a lunch and plenty of water. Return time 5-6 pm, or stop for supper on the way home. Hike leader Jennifer Schroll, 423-284-1256, Jennifergeologist@gmail.com.
APRIL 2, 2023 SUNDAY - CLEVELAND STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE NATURE TRAIL Join us on this impromptu spring hike! We will leisurely hike the moderate less than two-mile Nature Trail. There are restrooms at the baseball fields that may be open. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details!
APRIL 4, 2023 TUESDAY - WOLFTEVER CREEK/COLLEGEDALE GREENWAY - We will leisurely hike the easy approximately two-mile section of this picturesque greenway out-and-back for a total of approximately four miles. We will stop at the Veterans Memorial Park. There are restrooms at the Nature Nook and Imagination Station that may be open. Bring water and snacks. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details.
April 11, 2023 TUESDAY Cloudland Canyon Hike Meet at the Cleveland Park and Ride at 9:00 am and drive to Cloudland Canyon. Will need two vehicles for shuttle when we arrive. Hike will include the trail along the West Rim with two very impressive waterfalls, then out to the Sidon’s Gulch trail. Total distance of hike is approximately 9 miles, rated strenuous, due to the distance and a long series of steps required to access the waterfall. Hike leader, Buddy Arnold, 601-415-3551, we_arnold@outlook.com.
April 13, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Meet at 6:00 at the Etowah Senior Center for pot luck supper and a short business meeting, followed by a presentation by Rob Coombs. Rob will discuss the choice of “To Hike or not to Hike” as we mature. I will be his primary focus.
April 17, 2023 MONDAY McCamy Lake trail at Chilhowee Campground. Easy 1.2 miles around the lake. Contact Clare Sullivan 404-849-0872, clare7982@gmail.com for information on meeting time and location.
April 20, 2023 THURSDAY Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant, Cleveland 8:30 am. Contact Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
April 21-24, 2023 FRIDAY-MONDAY Old Stone Fort Archeological Park We will car camp at the park campground. (I have site 19) On Saturday we will hike the Shake Rag Hollow Trail on the campus of University of the South. Hike is about 5 miles rated difficult due to the elevation change and tread. This trail is an excellent walk through numerous wildflowers, rock outcrops and small waterfalls. Lunch and water required. On Sunday we will have a guided tour of the Old Stone Fork site by one of the Park interpretive specialists. This will be an easy walk, within a short distance of our campsite. We will have a campfire every night and possibly some Pie Iron cookoffs. There are several trail options at the park and at the University property, so we can add more if individuals choose to. Everyone is responsible for making their own campsite reservation, and I recommend you do so quickly if you plan to attend. Do not forget to utilize the veteran or senior discount. If you just want to make a day trip and not camp, you will need to contact hike leader Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 to confirm the meeting time and location for the days activities. Hike leaders Lucia Case and Jack Callahan.
APRIL 26 - 29, 2023 WEDNESDAY – SATURDAY SPRING WILDFLOWER PILGRIMAGE GSMNP - The SWFP is an annual nonprofit event [that] features professionally-guided walks, exhibits, and other learning opportunities to explore the region's rich natural and cultural resources. Pilgrims from more than 40 states and several countries make the pilgrimage each year to learn more about fungi, ferns, wildflowers, trees and shrubs, medicinal plants, insects (terrestrial and aquatic), salamanders and snakes, birds, mammals (bats to bears), journaling, art and photography, and park history.
April 28, 2023 FRIDAY Johnson Woods Walk The Walk in the Woods is actually a walk using the two loops at the Johnston Woods Retreat off Highway 11 just south of Cleveland. The first loop is 1.2 miles and the second is 2.9 miles for a total of 4.2 miles if you walk both. It is considered easy with little elevation change. It passes through both pine and hardwood forests and provides a pleasant hike close to town. The hike leader is James Anderson. Text me at 423-715-8824 if you want to be advised of any changes and/or hike cancellation. If that isn't an issue for you, then you can just show up at the trailhead parking area at the designated time of 9:00am.
April 29, 2023 SATURDAY Grundy Forest/Fiery Gizzard Hike Hike to Sycamore Falls on the Fiery Gizzard Trail, then return via the Grundy Forest loop through the former CCC Camp Interpretive trail where there are many pink lady slippers if the timing is right. Approximately 6 miles moderate hike with mostly good tread and moderate grades. After hike we will stop by the Old Dutch Bakery for some treats to consume on the way home. Meet at the Cleveland Park and Ride at 8:00 am to carpool to the trailhead in Tracy City. Approximate drive time is 1.75 hours. Hike leader Marrie Lassiter and Jack Callahan, contact Jack at 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
May 2, 2023 TUESDAY Flats Mountain Hike Approximately 6 miles, rated moderate, with some elevation gain. This hike will travel through an area with numerous pink lady slippers if the timing is right. Will need two vehicles for shuttle. Meet at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center in Tellico Plains at 9:00 am to set up shuttle. Hike leader Sue Robinson 423-519-9751 if you plan to attend.
MAY 2,3,4, 2023 BIRD WATCHING AT RADNOR LAKE STATE PARK, WITH CAMPOUT AT CEDARS OF LEBANON STATE PARK We will camp or rent cabins at Cedars of Lebanon on the nights of the 2nd and 3rd, and travel to Randor Lake on the 3rd, spending the day there and bird watching on several of their trails as well as spending time in the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center. The center is a wheelchair accessible boardwalk and provides access to the birds of prey, as well as other animals. Marrie Lasater is very familiar with Radnor and will be our guide at the park. Kelly Ducham and Bob Dornfeld are club members with experience in birding and will assist us in the typical procedures of birdwatching and the use of appropriate phone apps for bird call identification. When we arrive at Cedars of Lebanon on Tuesday, we will hike some of the trails at the park. Radnor Lake is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Cleveland, so that is part of the reason for staying at Cedars of Lebanon, but if there are individuals who prefer to make it a one-day event, we will meet you at Radnor Lake. Contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 for additional information. THIS EVENT IS A VERY SLOW-PACED WALK, WITH A LOT OF STOPPING, LOOKING AND LISTENING INVOLVED. Event leaders include Marie Lasater, Kelly Ducham, Bob Dornfeld and Jack Callahan. There are several cabins currently available at Cedars of Lebanon, so if you plan to rent one, suggest you do so quickly. There are 117 campsites, and showers and sites with electricity are available.
May 6, 2023 SATURDAY Coke Oven Tour, Dunlap Tennessee Visit Museum and tour the remains of the 268 beehive coke ovens, at 350 Mountain View Road, Dunlap. The museum contains many items used in the mining of coal in the area, as well as the largest collection of coal mining photographs in the state. (if we have 10 attending we can get a guided tour of the museum, no charge) This will be an easy walking event. There is no admission. Afterwards we will eat lunch at a local restaurant in Dunlap (possibly the Cooke Jar) or nearby. Meet at the Cleveland Park and Ride I-75/Exit 25 at 8:30 am to carpool to site. Hike Leader Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
May 11, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting (location to be determined) Pot luck supper and brief business meeting, followed by our outstanding long distance hikers Otis and Clayton Pannell. Otis and Clayton will lead an informal discussion about the trials and tribulations of through hiking the Appalachian Trail. They will share tips on managing food, use of shuttles and hostels, and some of the interesting tales from the trail. You do not want to miss this meeting!!
May 14-20, 2023 SUNDAY-SATURDAY Canoe Float trip on the Current River, Missouri
Current River is in southeast MO, near Van Buren, a portion of the Ozark National Scenic Waterways.
May 14-travel day approximately 8 hour drive from Cleveland to Two Rivers campground where we will camp the first night.
May 15-get with canoe rental at two Rivers and be shuttled with rental canoes to Baptist put-in approximately 50 river miles upstream. Float approximately 8 miles and camp on gravel bar. Many springs and caves at water level to explore in this section.
May 16- break camp and float approximately 10 miles. Spend night on gravel bar.
May 17-break camp and float approximately 8 miles to Pulltite Campground. Group Campsite reserved, with hot showers and flush toilets, electricity.
May 18-Break camp, float approximately 14 miles, camp on gravel bar. Stop at Round Springs along the way.
May 19-Break camp, float approximately 12 miles to Two Rivers, turn in canoes. Spend night at eagles Landing River resort (one room with two queen beds $130/night) Or elsewhere, your choice.
May 19-travel back to home base.
Canoe rental for two person canoe for 5 weekdays, $190, $40 to have outfitter shuttle your craft, Group campsite at Pulltite, $140, Approximately 900 miles round trip by road. Max number of floaters, 16. We will share the cost of the group campsite and fuel cost plus extra for drivers, rooms after float trip, on your own. Estimated cost per person (sharing room) about $230 plus meals. For more details contact Jack Callahan, event leader, 423-284-7885. If you are interested you must get on the list ASAP. When we have final numbers we can work out the details on drivers, etc.
May 23-26, 2023 TUESDAY-THURSDAY Great Smoky Mtn Backpacking Trip Short backpacking hike to Walnut Bottoms campsite, then two day hikes out of camp to iconic vistas in the Smokies. Will require shuttle from Standing Bear Hostel for better vehicle security.
Day one Begin hike at Big Creek Campground, moderate hike to Campsite 36 or 37, approximately 5.3 miles with 1300 foot elevation gain.
Day two Strenuous day hike to Mt Cammerer, hike 2.5 miles to Low Gap, then 2.7 miles on AT to Cammerer, total of 10.4 miles with 2500 foot elevation gain.
Day three Strenuous day hike 4.0 miles on Shallow Fork trail to Mt Sterling Ridge trail, then 1.8 miles to Mt Sterling Fire Tower. Approximately 2700 foot elevation gain, 11.6 miles.
Day four Hike out to Big Creek Campground, 5.3 miles, 1300 foot elevation loss.
Hike leader Buddy Arnold, 601-414-3551, we_arnold@outlook.com, must contact to join in hike..limited number due to campsite restrictions.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
June 2-3, 2023 FRIDAY-SATURDAY Virginia Creeper Bike Ride with Barter Theater Event Enjoy the theater on Friday evening, stay at a hotel and ride the Creeper on Saturday, then return home. We will ride from Whitetop to Damascus, 18 miles all the way downhill. Mostly gravel tread with lots of picturesque bridges and streams. Bring a lunch and small backpack with essentials for the ride. You must reserve your own motel room and purchase Barter Theater tickets. More information on hotel and Barter Theater show and tickets if you ae interested. Event leader Jennifer Schroll, 423-284-1256, jennifergeologist@gmail.com.
JUNE 6, 2023, BIRD WATCHING EVENT AT ATHENS REGIONAL PARK, IN ATHENS TENNESSEE. We will meet at the Athens Regional Park off Highway 30, Approximately 1/2 mile east of I 75 and Highway 30 intersection. Immediately after you enter the park, take the first left to the small parking lot near the restroom facilities. We will meet there at 9:00am and begin our bird watching walk on the trails in the park. Bring lunch and water and binoculars if you have a pair, or we can share. This will be a slow, stop, look and listen event, so speed is not required. Event leaders Kelly Ducham, Bob Dornfeld and Jack Callahan. If you have any questions, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885
June 8, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Etowah Senior Center. Pot luck supper and brief business meeting followed by a slide presentation of a trip to Spain, by Karen Kocher. See the amazing architecture and county side of Spain.
June 12, 2023 MONDAY Falls Branch Falls Trail, off the Cherohola Skyway. Difficult but short 3-mile hike with the rewarding 80 foot waterfall and wildflowers, Trekking poles suggested. Meet at the Tellico Plains Visitor Center in Tellico at 9:00 am to carpool to site. Hike Leader Sue Robinson 423-519-9751.
June 15, 2023 THURSDAY Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant, Cleveland. Meet at 8:30 AM Jack Callahan 423-284-7885
June 16, 2023 FRIDAY Hooper Bald/Huckleberry Knob Two short hikes to the top of the balds, Hooper is about one mile total, and Huckleberry is about two max. Some elevation gain but not bad. We will hike to Hooper first , with hopes of seeing the wild azaleas in bloom, them hike to Hockenberry and have lunch and enjoy the view. Bring a lunch or charcuterie board, something comfortable to sit or lie on and relax. Hike Leader Jack Callahan 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend. Depending on who signs up we will determine the meeting location to carpool.
June 19, 2023 MONDAY BALD RIVER FALLS Because the Tellico River Rd will most likely be closed due to replacement of the bridge over Bald River, we will have to go to the south end of the trail along Bald River Road. We will hike down to the falls along Tellico River Rd, eat lunch, then return to our vehicles on Bald River Rd. Total distance will be about 9 miles, rated moderate with some rocky areas. This is a gorgeous hike going by several waterfalls along the way. There is one significant stream crossing (Pawpaw Branch), which may require wading. Leader Rick & Brenda Harris, harrisri@aol.com or 423-253-6358
June 24, 2023 SATURDAY Prentis Cooper Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride at 8am. This hike is easy to moderate. Milage depends on which option. More details later. Both options will hike to Snoopers Rock overlook and Indian Rockhouse/Stone Door. Option 1 is to continue along the trail to Lawson Rock overlook, then return to main parking for a car shuttle or return to the lower parking area. Option 2 is to hike from Stone door in a loop that will include Mullins Cove overlook and return to the cars at the lower parking area. Hike leader Jennifer Schroll 423-284-1256, jennifergeologist@gmail.com
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
July 10, 2023 MONDAY Warriors Passage Hike We will drive to the top of Wacheesee Bald after leaving shuttle vehicles along Old Furnace Road. Distance is, approximately 6.2 miles almost all downhill though some sections are rather steep.. We will cross Wildcat Creek near the end of the hike, which will almost certainly require a wade through knee deep water. Hike leader Rick and Brenda Harris harrisri@aol.com or 423-253-6358.
July 13, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Charleston Picnic Pavilion Meet at 6:00 pm for a pot luck supper and short business meeting, followed by a presentation by Rick Harris on the use of mobile phone applications that utilize the GPS system for hiking. Never get lost again!
July 14, 2023 FRIDAY Johnson Woods. The Walk in the Woods is actually a walk using the two loops at the Johnston Woods Retreat off Highway 11 just south of Cleveland. The first loop is 1.2 miles and the second is 2.9 miles for a total of 4.2 miles if you walk both. It is considered easy with little elevation change. It passes through both pine and hardwood forests and provides a pleasant hike close to town. The hike leader is James Anderson. Text me at 423-715-8824 if you want to be advised of any changes and/or hike cancellation. If that isn't an issue for you, then you can just show up at the trailhead parking area at the designated time of 8:00am.
July 20, 2023 THURSDAY Third Thursday Breakfast Meet at Old Fort Resturant at 8:30 am. Jack Callahan 423-284-7885
July 22, 2023 SATURDAY Brasstown Bald Highest point in Georgia.. Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride at 8am. This hike is 2 + 5.3 miles. From the main parking area it is a steep .6 miles to the top of Brasstown Bald. We will then hike 5.3 mile from the main parking lot along the Arkaquah Trail to Track Rock. A car shuttle will return us to the main parking area. Fee for parking. This can be an easy outing & there is a shuttle to the top of Brasstown Bald if you wish to only do that. The hike down to track rocks is moderate. Bring a lunch & water. Hike leader Jennifer Schroll 423-284-1256, jennifergeologist@gmail.com
July 31, 2023 MONDAY South Fork Citico Creek Wilderness Trail We will leave shuttle vehicles near Warden Fields, then drive to Beech Gap on the Skyway at the state line. We will hike about 2 miles to Cold Springs Gap on the BMT, then hike down the SFCC Trail. Hike distance is about 11.5 miles. There are several significant creek crossings, and in places the trail is steep downhill, so the hike is rated moderately difficult. Hike Leaders are Rick & Brenda Harris, harrisri@aol.com or 423-253-6358
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
August 10, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Meet at TVA Sugarloaf Picnic area at 6:00pm for pot luck supper and lively discussion. Event Leader, Ruth Pannell 423-506-9623.
August 11-19, 2023 FRIDAY-SATURDAY Isle Royale NP Trip Members will meet in Houghton Michigan on August 13, to travel to Isle Royale NP. There are two ways to get to the island, by sea plane or by ferry. Both modes of transportation are available in Houghton. Sea plane is $250 per person, the ferry is $80. These are one way fares. You can backpack on the island or stay in the Rock Harbor Lodge or their cabins. A lodge room or cabin are about $330 per day. Several of us have rented cabins for three days. We are flying over and taking the ferry back. We will be on the island August 13, 14 1nd 15, returning to Houghton on the 16th. From there there are may ways back to home base, sightseeing along the way. If you are interested, and want more specific information, contact Event leader Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
August 17, 2023 THURSDAY Third Thursday Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant in Cleveland. Meet at 8:30 am.Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
September 8, 2023 FRIDAY The Narrows Hike, Cherokee National Forest Rating: Moderate, Length: 5 miles. Trail is along the Hiwassee River going East to the narrowest place on the Hiwassee. See beautiful outcroppings, a tiny cave, river potholes, and other gorgeous geological features when the river is low. Sometimes there are pawpaws and persimmons to try. Contact Clare Sullivan at clare7982@gmail.com or 404-849-0872.
SEPTEMBER 12, 2023, BIRD WATCHING EVENT AT ATHENS REGIONAL PARK, IN ATHENS TENNESSEE. We will meet at the Athens Regional Park off Highway 30, Approximately 1/2 mile east of I 75 and Highway 30 intersection. Immediately after you enter the park, take the first left to the small parking lot near the restroom facilities. We will meet there at 9:00am and begin our bird watching walk on the trails in the park. Bring lunch and water and binoculars if you have a pair, or we can share. This will be a slow, stop, look and listen event, so speed is not required. Event leaders Kelly Ducham, Bob Dornfeld and Jack Callahan. If you have any questions, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
September 14, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting Meet at 6:00 pm at the Etowah Senior Center, pot luck supper, followed by a short business meeting. The evening program will be a slide presentation on the club float trip on the Current River in Missouri.
September 15, 2023 FRIDAY Childers Creek Hike This is an out and back hike along the beautiful Hiwassee River on the Childer's Creek Section of the BMT. It will cover a total of 6 miles and is considered moderate. We will meet at the Childer's Creek Trailhead at 9am. Please bring water and something to eat. Please contact the hike leader James Anderson at 423-715-8824 if you want to be notified of any changes or cancellation related to the hike.
September 17-20, 2023 SUNDAY-WEDNESDAY Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia, Campout Day hikes on the balds in the high country near the campground, see the wild ponies, and enjoy the beginning of fall. The campground is located at the edge of Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia. The campground is at near 4000 foot elevation, so bring a jacket of the evening activities. There is a nice open field adjacent to some of the campsites which make a great place to sky watch for satellites and meteors. Several of us have made reservations and we are in sites 64 and 66. Contact the Event leader for more specific information about the campground and campsites. Day hikes will be planned each evening for the next day, based on the group's interests. There are many miles of trail in the area, including the Appalachian Trail. Event Leader, Jennifer Schroll 423-284-1256, Jennifergeologist@gmail.com.
September 21, 2023 THURSDAY Third Thursday Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant. Meet at 8:30 am to catch up on all the latest news. Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
October 12, 2023 THURSDAY Monthly Club Meeting. This month James and Phyllis Anderson will host the club at their residence. Plan on arriving at 67:00 pm, to enjoy a pot luck supper, followed by a short business meeting. Then we will gather around James‘s outdoor fire pit and enjoy a great fire and watch the dark chase away the last rays of sunlight on Bean Mountain. Event leader James Anderson, 423-715-8824.
October 14, 2023 SATURDAY Hike to the Hangover We will drive to the Wolf Laurel Trailhead and will hike up about 1.5 miles to the crest of the ridge, the follow the BMT to Naked Ground and the Hangover. Expect a strenuous hike of about 8 miles. The Hangover location is a special place, a barren rock outcrop with the land falling away on three sides. There are great views of the southern end of the Smokies, to the east toward Fontana and to the west toward Vonore. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, harrisri@aol.com 513-260-1184.
October 16, 2023 MONDAY Ducktown Basin Museum 1.0 miles. Easy walk and interesting items in the museum about the history of copper mining in the area. Contact Clare Sullivan Hike leader for meetup time and location at 404-849-0872, or clare7982@gmail.com.
October 19, 2023 THURSDAY Third Thursday Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant. Meet at 8:30 am for coffee, hot biscuits and stories. Event Leader Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
October 21, 2023 SATURDAY Trail Maintenance on the Childer's Creek section of the BMT. Meet at the Childer's Creek trailhead at 9am. Wear boots and bring gloves. A hard hat will be provided if you don't have one already. Bring two liters of water and snacks. Please let James Anderson know if you are planning to help. 423-715-8824. We will be doing general maintenance work such as brushing out the trail, lopping, and removing any blown down trees
October 29-November 2, 2023 SATURDAY-THURSDAY Tallulah Gorge State Park Campout. The park is about 22 miles south of Helen, Georgia. The gorge is a 1000 foot deep streambed adjacent to the campground. One day there will be a trip to the Currahee Museum in Taccoa Georgia, where the enlistees arrived at the train station to begin training for paratrooper jump school. We may be able to get a guided tour of the old training site by a veteran at the museum. (still in the works). Another possibility is day trips to Hellen and the Foxfire Museum, within less than an hour's drive. A hike down into the gorge is also an option, along with other trails in the area. A map of the campground was emailed to club members on January 14, so individuals can begin making reservations. Event Leader, Jack Callahan 423-284-7885.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
November 2-5, 2023 THURSDAY-SUNDAY BMTA Hike Fest in Tellico Plains TN. There will be multiple hikes daily ranging from Easy to Difficult. Rick Harris is in charge of the hikes. Folks can attend the hikes even if they are unable to attend the Annual Meeting and dinner on Saturday, Nov. 4. Some of the hikes we know for sure that will be held are:
Bob Stratton Bald
Conausaga Falls
Coker Creek Falls
Bald River Falls
Indian Boundary Lake Trail
Unicoi Turnpike Trail
There will be a Mexican Dinner social on Friday, Nov. 3 after the hikes. On Saturday, Nov. 5 there will be a BMTA Annual Meeting and dinner with a guest speaker that promises to be intriguing. The Mexican Dinner social will be free, the Sat. night dinner will be $30. For more information contact Rick Harris 513-260-1184, or Clare Sullivan, 404-849-0872 or clare7982@gmail.com.
November 7-10, 2023 TUESDAY-FRIDAY Backpacking Hike North Carolina The hike is near Franklin, NC. Begin the event by driving to Standing Indian Campground near Franklin. Will leave vehicles at the Backcountry Info Center there. The hike is rated as strenuous, due to elevation gains, but much of the hike is moderate. There are numerous scenic overlooks along the trail. Total distance is approximately 25 miles. There are shelters along the trail, but most are small capacity, so you will need to bring your tents. The hike is limited to eight.
Day one Drive to Murphy, then to Standing Indian Campground. Meet at the Backcountry Info Center at noon. From there we will hike three miles to Long Branch shelter via Blackwell Gap trail and the AT.
Day two hike 8.9 miles to carter Gap shelter on the AT.
Day three hike 7.6 miles to the Standing Indian shelter
Day Four Hike 4.5 miles to Backcountry Info Centervia AT and Kimsey Creek trail. Return to home base. Event Leader Buddy Arnold, 601-414-3551, we_arnold@outlook.com.
November 13, 2023 MONDAY Project Chimp Event Travel to the site approximately 10 miles east of Blue Ridge GA, arriving at 10 am. Visit the interpretive site and walk several trails in the area, for a total of about 4 miles. Return to Blue Ridge for a late lunch in a local restaurant. As we get closer to the date a meeting location and time will be developed to carpool from Cleveland. Drive time is approximately 1.5 hours. Event leaders, Letha Kelly, Clare Sullivan and Jack Callahan, 423-284-7885.
November 16, 2023 THURSDAY Third Thursday Breakfast at Old Fort Resturant in Cleveland. Contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 for any questions.
November 17, 2023 FRIDAY The Walk in the Woods is actually a walk using the two loops at the Johnston Woods Retreat off Highway 11 just south of Cleveland. The first loop is 1.2 miles and the second is 2.9 miles for a total of 4.2 miles if you walk both. It is considered easy with little elevation change. It passes through both pine and hardwood forests and provides a pleasant hike close to town. The hike leader is James Anderson. Text me at 423-715-8824 if you want to be advised of any changes and/or hike cancellation. If that isn't an issue for you, then you can just show up.at the trailhead parking area at the designated time. Meet time 10:00 am.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885..
December 9, 2023 SATURDAY Annual Christmas Party…Final arrangements still being made. Jack Callahan Event Leader 423-284-7885.
Cleveland Greenway walks each Wednesday. Contact Leader Jack Callahan for meeting time/place info 423-284-7885.
THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH BREAKFAST -
Join us for conversation over breakfast at 8:30 am at Old Fort Restaurant on 25th Street in Cleveland. For more information, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885..
JANUARY 7, 2024 SUNDAY 2 PM -
ANNUAL PLANNING MEETING - ETOWAH TN SENIOR CENTER -
Do you want to lead a hike or event? If so, bring your ideas to our annual planning meeting! Be sure to include all details in writing to turn in including date, time, description, hike difficulty, entrance fees, etc. If you cannot attend, you may email the information to cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com. See you there!