Cherokee Hiking Club Calendar
2024
Hike Difficulty Rating Scale (per Chattanooga Hiking Club)
CHC Hike Calendar for 2024 - 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.
BRUSH CREEK TRAIL
JANUARY 1, 2024 | MONDAY | CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
Start your year off the right way! Join us as we hike a loop out-and-back from Boyd Gap parking on the Brush Creek Trail. Bring water and snacks and wear hiking footwear. Contact Hike Leaders Jennifer Schroll and Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details. Trip Report: Eight-and-a-half members and guests came out on the first day of 2024 to hike about six miles on Brush Creek Trail from Boyd Gap Overlook. One member had a flat tire on the way and was unable to join us. Hikers were: Hike Leader Jennifer and Mitchell Schroll, Jack and Margaret Callahan, Ginger Pippenger, Nancy Barr, Buddy Arnold, and Kathy Thelen. We started at the Boyd Gap Overlook where we could see some nice views of the Ocoee River down in the gorge. We hiked down to where the trail gets close to the lake behind Ocoee Dam #3 and then took the spur trail on the way back to Boyd Gap. There were some more nice views of the lake from the spur trail. It was a great way to start the new year! • Jennifer Schroll
EUREKA TRAIL
JANUARY 4, 2024 | THURSDAY | ATHENS TN
We will walk four to six miles along the easy, wide gravel path. This is a multi-use trail so there may be bikers, as well as those riding horses out for the day. We will begin our walk at the main trailhead located at 1400 East Madison Avenue in Athens, TN. There are restrooms available. Bring water and a snack! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please text Hike Leader Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or email dkss2063@hotmail.com for details. Trip Report: Seven hikers met at the Eureka Trail in Athens and enjoyed a six-mile walk on the old railbed. It was cloudy and cold but the sun peeked through the clouds a few times. Visitors Jane Chastain and David Thomforde joined members Lisa Thompson, Judy Price, Jack Callahan, Charlene Sudore, and Hike Leader Kelly Ducham. • Kelly Ducham
MCGILL CREEK SECTION OF THE CUMBERLAND TRAIL
JANUARY 5, 2024 | FRIDAY | GRAYSVILLE TN
Join us on this picturesque section of the Cumberland Trail. This is a moderate, 5.6-mile (total) out-and-back hike. This trail crosses drainage areas which may be full or dry depending on the weather. Bring water shoes if that will offer peace of mind. Also bring water and snacks and wear hiking footwear. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details. Hike Report: Nine hikers and a doggo met at Roaring Creek Trailhead in Graysville, Tennessee, to begin hiking on the Cumberland Trail. We started heading south, did a short road walk across Roaring Creek, then headed back into the woods! The first section is very pretty with little waterfalls during rainy times and a sort of "amphitheater" feel as the trail switchbacks. We were soon gaining elevation. We joked that we were getting Buddy Arnold ready for his Big Bend National Park trip! Many blowdowns had been cleared on the trail and we owe the maintainers many thanks! The trail crosses Brayton Mountain Road and we had amazing views of Cranmore Cove. Mary Alton can always be depended upon to pull out her PeakVisor app to identify the mountains. She pointed out Fort Mountain and Big Frog among others. The trail continued on the ridge along the cove, then dropped down into the creek gorge. We were lucky for the recent dry weather as we had no major water crossings to deal with. We now hiked alongside the very pretty, cascading McGill Creek until we came to McGill Creek Bridge. The trail up to this point is moderate. The trail past the bridge is newer and should be considered strenuous. We walked up stone steps where we had a wonderful view of the bluff across the creek; then we hiked back down to walk along the creek. Soon we slowly and carefully picked our way across a boulder field which eventually took us to the McGill Falls blue-blazed trail. The falls were flowing and gorgeous! We retraced our steps back to the bridge where we had lunch; then we made our way back to the trailhead after hiking 5.6 miles. Hikers this day were visitor Jen McGlohon and members Mary Alton, Buddy Arnold, Leslie Auriemmo, Jack Callahan, Bob Dornfeld and Smoky, Kelly Ducham, Jennifer Schroll, and Hike Leader Judy Price. • Judy Price
BAY POINT LOOP
JANUARY 11, 2024 | THURSDAY | HARRISON BAY STATE PARK
Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride commuter parking next to the Mapco at I-75 and Hwy 60 at 10 am or meet at the trailhead at 10:30 am. This is a mostly-level, easy 4.3-mile loop hike. If it has rained recently, there are usually wet spots we will navigate around. Bring water and a snack! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please text Hike Leader Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or email dkss2063@hotmail.com for details. Hike Report: We enjoyed a 4.3-mile hike on the Bay Loop Trail at Harrison Bay State Park. Eight hikers made their way along the trail with lovely views of the lake. The trail was wet and soggy in places due to the recent rains but everyone managed their way and enjoyed the sunshine and blue skies. We learned some plants and birds along the way and even surprised a young deer. Hikers were Hike Leader Kelly Ducham, Jill Davis, Jack Callahan, Donna Botterbusch, Kathy Thelen, Ginger Pippenger, Judy Price, and Susan McQueeney. • Kelly Ducham
LOOKOUT WILD FILM FESTIVAL
JANUARY 11 - 14, 2024 | THURSDAY – SUNDAY | WALKER THEATER | CHATTANOOGA TN
Jack Callahan will lead the annual club trip to Chattanooga to enjoy another great weekend of outdoor films from around the world. This presentation is always memorable. If you have questions contact Jack at 423-284-7885. Event Report: Margaret and Jack Callahan attended Lookout Wild Film Festival again this year for the Saturday matinee. There were many films from surfing to hiking to free diving. The woman in the free diving clip dove to a depth of 484 (?) feet....an amazing depth without oxygen. Next time you are in the car, notice how far you drive in one tenth of a mile...that will give you an idea of just about how far down she went. Anyone who has not attended this event should keep it in mind for next year, and review the schedule and pick out a time to see some of these amazing things that people are doing in the great outdoors. • Jack Callahan
ANNUAL PLANNING MEETING
JANUARY 14, 2023 | SUNDAY 2 PM | WESLEY MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH | ETOWAH TN
Do you want to lead a hike or event? If so, bring your ideas to our annual planning meeting! The church is located on the corner of Ohio Avenue and 10th Street. Please enter through the 10th street entrance. Club will provide soft drinks. Members may want to bring a simple dessert for the break. Be sure to include all details in writing to turn in including date, time, description, hike difficulty, entrance fees, etc., on a single sheet of notebook paper to facilitate organization. If you cannot attend, you may email the information to cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com. See you there! Event Report: A group of dedicated members met in Etowah, TN, for the Annual Planning Meeting. Club President Jack Callahan coordinated the meeting as the members developed the 2024 Calendar of Events. The proposals came fast and furious and the months began to fill up quickly with some great hikes, historic tours, canoe/kayak options and group campouts and backpacking trips. Thanks to everyone who attended and to those who could not attend and supplied many more events by email and texts. And thanks to members who will be giving presentations at club meetings. It is a great lineup of interesting subjects. The calendar has been organized and soon will be available online at the club web page. It will be another great year of fun gatherings and great potluck meals! • Jack Callahan
BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK
JANUARY 14 – 23, 2024 | SUNDAY - TUESDAY | TEXAS
See the Proposed Big Bend Schedule & Day Hikes, Jan 2024 (Chisos Campground Group Site Option) in the newsletter email. Contact Hike Leader Buddy Arnold at we_arnold@outlook.com or 601-415-3551 for more information or to sign up. Follow this link for a several page summary of this trip.
CHEROKEE REMOVAL MEMORIAL PARK | HIWASSEE WILDLIFE REFUGE | BLYTHE FERRY | VENERABLE OAK
JANUARY 19, 2024 | FRIDAY | BIRCHWOOD, TN
Join us on this event rich in history. We will start at the Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge where the sandhill cranes and other birds will entertain us. Then we will go to the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park where we will receive a tour of the Visitor Center and walk around the grounds. We can also visit the overlook on the Hiwassee and Tennessee Rivers. Time permitting, we will drive to the former site of Blythe Ferry and stop at the Venerable Oak. We will be outside early so dress warmly. Bring snacks and water and wear comfortable shoes. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details.
BOOKER T. WASHINGTON STATE PARK
January 25, 2024. THURSDAY
We will hike the 3.9 easy Outer Loop trail which skirts the Chickamauga Lake for some nice views. Bring water and a snack! Depart from the Cleveland Park and Ride commuter parking next to the Mapco at I-75 and Hwy. 60 at 10:00 or meet at the trailhead at 10:30.
The hike will be cancelled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up please Text Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or e-mail at dkss2063@hotmail.com
OUTDOOR EXPO AT WESTMORE CHURCH IN CLEVELAND.
JANUARY 27, 2024 SATURDAY
The club will have a booth at the expo and will hand out information and meet with attendees to discuss who we are and what we do. The cost is $20 per person for the meal of wild game, and give aways. Doors open at 5:00pm for the displays, supper at 6:00pm and program at 7:00. Go to Westmore Outdoors Expo and Dinner 2024 for tickets. Jack and Margaret Callahan will staff the booth. Contact Jack at 423-284-7885 for additional information. Event Report: The club had a table again this year, with members Judy Price, Jennifer Schroll, Lucia Case, Otis Pannell, and Jack and Margaret Callahan meeting potential new members and discussing the adventures that the club is involved in. Club members Clare and Ed Sullivan were also in attendance as they staffed a table for the Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA). There was a great turnout to the event with several hundred people in attendance. The meal included roast chicken, venison chili and meatballs, BBQ pork, and potatoes. And a great banana pudding! Lucia was the club prize winner with a nice 9000 btu Little Buddy portable gas heater. We had a nice time and look forward to attending again next year. • Jack Callahan
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.
EUREKA TRAIL
FEBRUARY 1, 2024 | THURSDAY | ATHENS TN
Join in for a fun walk on the Eureka Trail. Beginning at 10:30 am, we will walk five to six miles along the easy, wide, gravel path. This is a multi-use trail so there may be bikers and horseback riders out for the day. We will begin our walk at the main trailhead located at 1400 East Madison Avenue in Athens, Tennessee. There are restrooms available. Bring water and a snack! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please contact Hike Leader Kelly Ducham by text at 239‑784‑7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: Eleven hikers set out on the Eureka Trail in Athens. For quite a few of us, this was one of the first times we had hiked in about two weeks due to a winter storm and freezing temperatures. It felt good to enjoy the sunshine and good company. James Carroll, Jack and Margaret Callahan, Beth Briggs, Deborah Burroughs, Bob Dornfeld and his pup, Smoky, Kim Luzader, Janet and Rob Coombs, Judy Price, and Melanie Miller joined Hike Leader Kelly Ducham for a six-mile out-and-back hike. • Kelly Ducham
RED CLAY STATE HISTORIC PARK
FEBRUARY 5, 2024 | MONDAY | CLEVELAND TN
Beginning at 10:30, we will walk the 1.7-mile Council of Trees Trail which will take us past the Overlook Tower. Then we will walk around the meadow and view the historical Farmstead buildings and the Blue Hole Spring. If interested, we will visit the James F. Corn Interpretive Facility which contains exhibits on the 19th century Cherokee, the Trail of Tears, Cherokee art, a video theater, gift shop and small library. Carpool will be available from Cleveland, if interested. If meeting us at the trailhead, as you enter the park take the road to the right and head to the parking area near the amphitheater. There are restrooms available at the Interpretive Facility. Bring water and a snack/lunch! For questions or to sign up, please contact Hike Leader Kelly Ducham by text at 239‑784‑7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: We had a lovely sunny day to enjoy the 1.7-mile Council of Trees Trail. Hike Leader Kelly Ducham was joined by Jack Callahan, James Carroll and his pup, Hades, Jill Davis, Patricia Whitmore, Connie Ocepek, Carol Guhne, Cathy Doss, and Judy Price. Our hike began at the trailhead near the amphitheater and took us over the gentle hills of the park. We enjoyed the view from the Overlook Tower and then continued the loop, ending up at the amphitheater. It was snack time so we all settled in around a picnic table to relax. We continued our walk and saw the Eternal Flame and Blue Hole Spring, which is a sacred site for the Cherokee people. Our walk continued along the stream where we heard the calls of a Carolina wren and tufted titmouse; we then walked through the fields, winding back around to the farmstead and finally the Visitor Center. This is a nice compact state park with lots of history and worthy of many return trips. • Kelly Ducham
MONTHLY CLUB MEETING
FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | THURSDAY 6 PM | ETOWAH SENIOR CENTER
Bring your favorite dish for the potluck dinner. The club will furnish drinks, cups, and eating utensils. The program is Benton MacKaye Trail by Clare Sullivan. Mtg Report: The club met at the Etowah Senior Center at 6:00 pm. After a great potluck meal provided by the members, there was a brief business meeting by Jack, and then he introduced the evening speaker, Clare Sullivan. Clare gave a really interesting history of the Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA) and highlights of the club. She finished with the efforts being made to have the BMT made a national trail designation. Clare's presentation was very professional and informative and well-received by the club members. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 pm. • Jack Callahan
OUTER LOOP | BOOKER T. WASHINGTON STATE PARK
FEBRUARY 12, 2024 | MONDAY
Depart from Cleveland Park and Ride commuter parking next to the Mapco at I-75 and Hwy 60 at 10 am or meet at the trailhead at 10:30 am. We will hike the 3.9-mile easy Outer Loop Trail which skirts Chickamauga Lake for some nice views. Bring water and a snack! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please text Hike Leader Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or email dkss2063@hotmail.com for details. • Kelly Ducham Trip Report: Rescheduled to March 11, 2024, due to inclement weather. • Kelly Ducham
GRAYSVILLE MOUNTAIN RMA SECTION OF THE CUMBERLAND TRAIL
FEBRUARY 17, 2024 | SATURDAY
Ten miles, moderately strenuous due to rocky terrain, seasonal creek/drainage crossings. (My Garmin indicated 1877’ total ascent/1778’ total descent.) We will pass rock bluffs and rockhouses, waterfalls, and magnificent overlooks. Weather permitting, we will take a break at Gilbreath Falls or Cranmore Cove Overlook for lunch. The last miles of the hike are mostly downhill and then flat. There is an eight-and-a-half-mile shuttle and we will need at least one volunteer driver. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details. Trip Report: Five hikers braved morning snow flurries to hike almost ten miles from Dayton, TN, to Graysville, TN. We met at the Roaring Creek Trailhead and shuttled to the beginning of the section. And we were on our way! We saw beautiful vistas and flowing waterfalls, crossed creeks, and walked through pine forests. We rock-hopped Sale Creek; and, as we climbed, we saw a bald eagle, North Cranmore Cove, and many rockhouses and rock bluffs. A few miles in, the sun finally came out and we stopped at the bridge at pretty Gilbreath Falls, whose pool is framed by a mountain view. On we went to our lunch destination, Cranmore Cove Overlook. Breathtaking! We disturbed some vultures resting below the outcrop and they flew over the cove. After a relaxing lunch, we returned to the trail, soon arriving at Wildcat Hollow Falls, then Roaring Creek Overlook. As we headed down the mountain, we saw a brilliant patch of British soldiers lichen. We hiked through a boulder field, where trailing arbutus was starting to bud, and crossed gorgeous Graysville Falls. Our last leg to the trailhead was flat trail alongside Roaring Creek (living up to its name), where we passed the remains of the former mining operation. Hikers enjoying the day were James Anderson, Jack Callahan, Kelly Ducham, Henry Mahler, and Hike Leader Judy Price. • Judy Price
ENTERPRISE SOUTH NATURE PARK
FEBRUARY 22, 2024 | THURSDAY | CHATTANOOGA TN
Beginning at 10:30 am, we will hike a four-mile loop beginning at the entrance where the Poe Run Path begins. There is a good incline on this trail but we will take it easy and slow as needed. Carpool will be available from Cleveland, if interested. If meeting us there, as you enter the park, turn left at the parking area across from the Visitor Center. There are restrooms available at the Visitor Center. Bring water and lunch/snack! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please contact Hike Leader Kelly Ducham by text at 239-784-7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: Eight hikers and one pup gathered at Enterprise South Nature Park in Chattanooga to hike the trails. This park has 2,800 wooded acres that were a part of the Volunteer Army Ammunition Plant property in the 1940's. Today, there are hiking and biking trails, a scenic drive, and much more. The day was a bit cloudy but warmer for our walk that started out at Parking Lot #1 on the Upper Poe Run Trail which has just enough gentle hills to get warmed up. We walked up a few switchbacks to the Poe Overlook Trail and then descended to the Hidden Lake, which is very lovely for a break on the swings and view of the lake. While at the lake, a small flock of sandhill cranes flew over. There were no signs of wood ducks but, hopefully, the nest boxes will be active soon. We stopped by the concrete magazine #50 which we were able to enter and experience the interesting acoustics. Hikers Charlene Sudore, Judy Price, Nicka Boone, James Carroll, Ginger Pippenger, Carin Taber, and Bob Dornfeld and his pup Smoky joined Hike Leader Kelly Ducham for the four-mile hike. • Kelly Ducham
BUSHWHACK TO FALLS ON ROCK CREEK
FEBRUARY 24, 2024 | SATURDAY | CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
Difficult five-to-six mile off-trail hike and scramble to see several waterfalls on a remote portion of Rock Creek above Rainbow Falls and below Benton Falls. Meet at the Clemmer Trailhead on Highway 30 just north of Parksville Lake at 9:00 am. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy boots and bring work gloves to wear as needed. Bring a lunch and water and first aid kit. This is not a hike for the faint of heart! It will be very difficult. Contact Hike Leaders Clare Sullivan and Jack Callahan at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com. Trip Report: The Intrepid Seven met at the Clemmer Trailhead at 9 am and began a one-hour hike up towards Benton Falls along the Clemmer Bike Trail. Near the trail crossing of Laurel Branch, the group selected a location to begin the descent to Laurel Branch in search of the numerous waterfalls and cascades on the stream. The slope of the sidehill was steep, with mixed-size boulders from washtub to car-size, and with a dense cover of rhododendron, leaf litter, and moss. The group slid, crawled over, under, and around laurel and downed timber, finally reaching the stream and one of the waterfalls. From there, the group then worked their way downstream toward Rock Creek, which is aptly named. Numerous more falls were seen, and the slow-going required two hours to travel about a half-mile (400-foot descent) before reaching Rock Creek and the most spectacular waterfall of all. Along the way, the group slid down steep sections, almost needing to rappel down several steep rocky bluff sections, and constantly lost their footing in holes between rocks covered with leaf litter. It was not a path well-traveled. Finding an open spot on a steep sidehill to view the falls, the group stopped briefly for lunch. During this stop, there were several hikers who appeared along Rock Creek and, after a brief conversation, they indicated the best way back to Rainbow Falls and the regular trail. Our group followed them up and down a steep sidehill section and we soon were at Rainbow Falls, and we then hiked back to the trailhead. We arrived at the parking lot at 2 pm, muddy, with some possible skinned shins and sore muscle; but everyone was happy that they had made the trip, and there is talk of doing another section of Rock Creek below Benton Falls next year. This was a great group of experienced hikers, and everyone supported each other, and were in high spirits the entire time. Thanks to Clare for proposing the hike and to Jennifer for acquiring some good topo maps of the area. It was definitely a very difficult hike but well worth it. Hikers of the Intrepid Seven included Mary Alton, Anne Anderson, Jennifer Schroll, Doug Lynch, Clare and Ed Sullivan, and Jack Callahan. • Jack Callahan
GUIDED TOUR OF MOCASSIN BEND NATIONAL ARCHEOLOGICAL DISTRICT | CHICKAMAUGA AND CHATTANOOGA NATIONAL MILITARY PARK
FEBRUARY 27, 2024 | TUESDAY | CHATTANOOGA TN
Mr. Jim Ogden, Park Historian, will lead us on a two-hour walking tour of some of the historic area of early settlements on the Bend. To carpool from Cleveland, contact Jack at the number below. We will meet at the gated trailhead parking on 200 Moccasin Bend Road at 9:45 am. The tour will travel through wooded areas and there will be little or no trail. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing to walk through some brush. There are no facilities where we will be so be sure to make necessary stops before you arrive. After the tour, we will eat at a local restaurant in the area. If you plan to attend, text Event Leader Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885. Trip Report: There was a great turnout for the guided tour of the historic site. Our group met with Mr. Jim Ogden, the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park historian at the designated trailhead, and, after introductions, Mr. Ogden gave us an overview of the area. As we walked along the trail, interesting sites of the area were pointed out, such as the former asphalt runway for a remote-control plane club. Another interesting thing was the discussion on the area that was filled with surplus material when I-24 was constructed. We stopped near the river and were told about the area's history from 12,000 years ago and how the area and inhabitants changed through the years. As we went, Mr. Ogden pointed out evidence of the changes of man's impact on the area. We then stopped at the remains of one of the very large ancient town sites with evidence of former structures; unfortunately, we saw evidence of plundering by pot hunters from the past century. Interestingly, this town site was many years before the Cherokee tribes became dominant in the Tennessee Valley. There is so much unexplored archeological information yet to be uncovered on the Bend. It is an amazing place and is certainly worthy of the National Park status and holds great opportunity of further exploration and interpretation. Mr. Ogden did an excellent job of sharing information with us and is a wonderful skilled presenter. Afterwards the group had a really good lunch at the Pourhouse in Chattanooga. • Jack Callahan
RHODODENDRON TRAIL AND BEAR PAW LOOP
FEBRUARY 29, 2024 | THURSDAY | CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
We will meet at Thunder Rock Trailhead at 10:30 am and hike Rhododendron Trail and Bear Paw Loop, (then back Rhododendron Trail to Thunder Rock). This easy hike is approximately four miles, but there is a gradual uphill on the Bear Paw Loop. We will take it easy and slow as needed. Carpool will be available from Cleveland, if interested. Bring water and a snack/lunch! The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please contact Hike Leader Kelly Ducham by text at 239‑784‑7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: Ten hikers joined Hike Leader Kelly Ducham for a relaxing four-mile hike in the Cherokee National Forest. We met at Thunder Rock campground and started our walk along the Ocoee River. The Rhododendron Trail is a flat, one-mile path that looks down upon the river. There are many mosses and ferns growing along the trail and several small waterfalls. During the summer months, there is a lot of activity on the river with kayaks and whitewater excursions; but this time of year, all is quiet. We followed the Rhododendron Trail to the Bear Paw Loop trailhead and began the uphill part of the hike. This is a nice loop trail with just enough elevation to get everyone warmed up. We followed the loop in a counterclockwise direction and ended up back at the trailhead where we retraced our steps along the Rhododendron Trail to the Thunder Rock parking lot. Hikers on the trail today were Margaret and Jack Callahan, Nicka Boone, James Carroll, Doug Lynch, Sue Robinson, Pat Whitmore, Leslie Auriemmo, Linda Crider, and Sharon Royal. • Kelly Ducham
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 4, 2024,MONDAY - Hike the Rock Creek Trail in Cherokee National Forest, TN
Begin at Hwy 64 at Thunder Rock Trail Parking and hike across the Ocoee and up the BMT 2.2 miles to the Rock Creek Trail. Hike 5.6 miles on the Rock Creek Trail. Total mileage will be 7.8 The climbs and descents are moderate. Rating for the entire hike is strenuous. There are a few minor creek crossings, one could be fairly deep. We will shuttle from the other end of the Rock Creek Trail on Hwy. 64, a very easy shuttle. Hike Leaders: Clare Sullivan, Judy Price, (maybe Ed Sullivan)To reserve a spot, contact Cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com to be added to the list. Trip Report: On our eight-mile hike with Benton MacKaye Trail Association and Cherokee Hiking Club members, plus one guest, we went through Benton MacKaye Trail Section 12a and turned east on the Rock Creek Trail. On our hike, we saw plenty of frog eggs, a couple salamanders, tremendous views, and some not-quite-ready-to-bloom mountain laurel. One hiker, Mike Pilvensky, found deer antlers! We hit slippery rocks on the creek crossings and a few blowdowns that were fun, but the trail was otherwise clear. Overall, it was a great hike with fantastic weather! Hikers were Mary Alton, Anne Anderson, Buddy Arnold, Jerry Barrow, Ken Cissna, Darcy Douglas, Kelly Ducham, Emily McFee, Mike Pilvensky, Sue Robinson, and Hike Leaders Clare and Ed Sullivan and Judy Price. • Emily McFee, Knoxville Hiker
MARCH 5, 2024 TUESDAY WALK IN THE WOODS JOHNSON WOODS
The Walk in the Woods is at Johnston Woods off Hwy 11 just south of Cleveland. It consists of two loop trails and is considered easy. Hikers have the option of walking the 1.2 mile loop and then the 2.9 mile loop for a total of 4.2 miles or just one of the loops. The meetup location is the parking lot at Johnston Woods. Meet at 10:00 am to begin the hike. Contact Event Leader James Anderson at text 423-715-8824 if you plan to attend.
MARCH 7, 2024 | THURSDAY 10:30 AM | ATHENS - TN EUREKA TRAIL
Beginning at 10:30, we will walk five to six miles along the easy wide gravel path. This is a multi-use trail so there may be bikers or horseback riders out for the day. We will begin our walk at the main trailhead located at 1400 East Madison Avenue in Athens. There are restrooms available. Bring water and a snack. The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please text Hike Leader Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: Seven hikers set out on the Eureka Trail in Athens. It felt good to enjoy the sunshine and good company. Eureka Trail is an easy wide gravel path on a multi-use trail so there are usually plenty of walkers, bikers, as well as those riding horses out for the day. We began our walk at the main trailhead located at 1400 East Madison Avenue. James Carroll and his pup Hades, Ginger Pippenger, Lucia Case, Jill Davis, Charlene Sudore, and Linda Crider, joined Hike Leader Kelly Ducham for a six-mile out-and-back walk. • Kelly Ducham
MARCH 10, 2024 | SUNDAY SODDY CREEK GORGE SECTION (NORTH)
Heiss Mountain Road Trailhead to Big Soddy Creek Gulf Trailhead. Almost nine miles, moderate to strenuous due to miles, elevation, and terrain. We will hike next to a beautiful creek and pass waterfalls and cascades. Much of the trail is downhill or flat and covered in pine needles. However, there are some steep downhill sections and seasonal creek/drainage crossings. We will exit through Big Soddy Creek Gulf trails. There is a five-mile shuttle and we will need at least one volunteer driver. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details. NOTE: DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME STARTS MARCH 10. Trip Report: Taking part in the almost nine-mile Soddy Creek adventure this day were James Anderson, Kelly Ducham, Henry Mahler, Jennifer Schroll, and Hike Leader Judy Price. We had an unusual start to our hike on a chilly but clear day with an almost one-mile road walk from Heiss Mountain Road Trailhead to a TN 111 off-ramp! After getting on-trail and hiking by the highway awhile, we finally rock-hopped a little creek and entered an area with rock walls. We went over a giant stile and had a very pleasant hike alongside beautiful Boardcamp Creek, rock-hopping more streams along the way. When we crossed the bridge at the campsite, we could hear a barred owl hooting. (Kelly told us it was saying, "Who cooks for you?") We also heard pileated woodpeckers and nuthatches. We passed the relic of an old truck by the creek and hiked on a thick carpet of pine needles along a ridge next to a former mining area and what appeared to be a sinkhole. We had a relaxing lunch at a sunny creekside campsite. Soon, we headed down a steep staircase into the breathtaking creek gorge. There were amazing waterfall-like cascades in the gorge on one side; we walked though waterfalls coming off the rock bluffs on the other side. Jennifer captured a rainbow in a photo. James pointed out that he hadn't been told he'd have a shower on the hike. We saw spring wildflowers! Blue, long-spurred, and halberd-leaved violet, toothwort, foamflower, ragwort, ground-ivy, pussytoe, vinca, and rue anemone were in bloom; trout lily and trillium were in leaf but not yet blooming. The trail led us along the bluffs to a spectacular rockhouse where we saw layers of coal in the rock walls. Next up was a gorgeous cascading branch of Boardcamp Creek which we very carefully boulder-hopped. This day's journey on the Cumberland Trail came to an end as we reached the trail to Big Soddy Creek Gulf. We had approximately two miles to go to our cars at the Big Soddy trailhead. What a pretty walk it was! We crossed the new bridge where Boardcamp Creek flows into Big Soddy Creek. There are many blue holes along the way. There is also a waterfall! The spring peepers serenaded us as we walked. Lettie and Jim Whisman are leading a hike along this walkway in April, so be sure to join them! • Judy Price
MARCH 11, 2024 | MONDAY 10:30 AM | BOOKER T. WASHINGTON STATE PARK - OUTER LOOP
We will hike the 3.9-mile Outer Loop trail which skirts Chickamauga Lake for some nice views. Bring water and a snack! Meet at the trailhead at 10:30 am. The hike will be canceled in the event of poor weather. For questions or to sign up, please text Hike Leader Kelly Ducham at 239-784-7337 or email at dkss2063@hotmail.com. Trip Report: Eleven hikers had an enjoyable four-mile walk at Booker T. Washington State Park. After a couple of cancellations due to poor weather, we had a lovely weather day and enjoyed the many views of the lake from the Outer Loop trail. There were some early signs of spring wildflowers and plenty of birds chirping in the trees. Leslie Auriemmo, Bob Dornfeld, Nicka Boone, James and Connor Carroll, Lettie and Jim Whisman, Jill Davis, Jan Wyant, and LaShon Kidd all joined Hike Leader Kelly Ducham on the trail. • Kelly Ducham
MARCH 12, TUESDAY, 2024 PROJECT CHIMP
The hike at Project Chimps and private tour with Kathy WIlliams as our tour guide, has been confirmed for Tuesday, March 12. I'm advertising this with both the Cherokee Hiking Club and the BMTA. My contact at Project Chimps is letting us feed the chimps their lunch that day! We will be using their extra large mounted sling shots to shoot their cabbage, peppers, lettuce etc, into the air into their habitat area. This is so special! I promised them a minimum of $500. in donations. There are already 6 people signed up from the Cherokee Hiking Club. The tour will begin at 10:00, then the Lunch Launch, then our lunches on the picnic table and then the hike. We may have to limit the number to 26 people (13 from each club). If you plan to attend, you must contact Clare Sullivan by leaving a request at Cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com.
9:30 Meet in the parking lot in front of Ingles Food Store Blue Ridge and
Carpool to Project Chimps, each hiker brings cash/check for $25. minimum donation.
10:00 Private Tour while the Chimps are in their habitat
11:00 Lunch Launch from the roof of their villa
11:30 Hikers eat lunch at the picnic tables by the pond
12:00 Hike the 4 mile trail around the property
Visit the Project Chimps Gift Shop.
Visit the Project Chimps website or sign-up for their Instagram page for interesting stories about the Chimpanzees. Trip Report: All the hikers on the Project Chimps tour felt the staff and volunteers at Project Chimps are certainly making the lives of the 95 chimps much better than when they were used for medical research. Our day was exciting and educational. After an informative tour around the six villas holding the chimp families, we got to launch lunch to the Chateau B family in the habitat. Chimps enjoyed zucchini, cabbage, and broccoli launched by hikers from the Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA) and the Cherokee Hiking Club. A contribution of $755 was made to Project Chimps for this unique experience. With an academic mind of a 11-to-12-year-old, strength of seven-to-eight humans, and the emotional development of a three-to-to-four-year-old child, life has its daily ups and downs. Staff, volunteers, and visitors are very cautious. We enjoyed the lovely 2.5-mile Yellow Hiking Trail at Project Chimps. Hearing the hoots and pants of the chimps make it a very distinguished trail. • Clare Sullivan
MARCH 14, 2024 THURSDAY MONTHLY CLUB MEETING
Pot luck supper at 6:00 pm, followed by a presentation by James and Phyllis Anderson on their trip to Scotland and Ireland. Meet at the Etowah Senior Center in Etowah. Mtg Report: The club met at the Etowah Senior Center and began the meeting with a tasty potluck meal and many pies, in celebration of Pi Day. There were pecan, chocolate, cherry, and many more. And, as a special treat, Phyllis made a dish of haggis, a favorite in Scotland. After a brief business meeting, the floor was turned over to Phyllis and James Anderson, who gave an excellent presentation on their trip to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. The slide show was very professionally organized, and James and Phyllis gave great descriptions of the sites they visited. Phyllis handled the door prize, which was a scone mix to complement the tour of theirs. The meeting concluded around 8 pm. • Jack Callahan
MARCH 16, 2024 SATURDAY HIKE/BUSHWHACK TO LOWERY TOP
Meet at the Oswald Dome Trailhead of Highway 30 at 9:00 am. This hike begins with a steady 8 to 10 percent grade for almost three miles then leaves the trail for another 1.5 miles to the lunch location. The views are worth the effort. Wear good hiking shoes and long pants, as there are briers and brush. Bring lunch and water. Text Event Leader Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend. Trip Report: The Stalwart Seven met at the Quinn Springs Trailhead and made the four-mile hike up to Lowry Top. The hike involves about 1800-foot elevation gain and several sections of bushwhacking to reach the overlook. At the overlook, the group had lunch and enjoyed the view, although it was a bit hazy. On a clear day, there are many mountain peaks visible. The downtown area of Reliance is obvious, with the bridges, buildings, and Hiwassee River. Afterwards, the group made the easy downhill hike back to the parking lot. The total mileage was eight miles, in 5.5 hours. The bloodroot and Antennaria neglecta, which resembles tiny cats' feet, were in early bloom. A patch of apple moss was also seen. The Stalwart Seven included Clare Sullivan, Otis Pannell, Jennifer Schroll, Janet and Rob Coombs, Randy Morris, and Event Leader Jack Callahan. • Jack Callahan
MARCH 17, 2024 | SUNDAY | CLEVELAND STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE NATURE TRAIL, CLEVELAND TN
We will hike approximately two miles on this short but sweet trail that will give you a cardio workout! We have the option to repeat a loop in the opposite direction if we want to add miles and continue hiking. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for complete meetup details! Trip Report: Six Hill Walkers—Nicka Boone, Kelly Ducham, Sharon Royal, Charlene Sudore, Carin Taber, and Hike Leader Judy Price—met at Cleveland State Community College to hike the Nature Trail. Before we started, a baseball from the ball fields was hit into our parking lot and Kelly valiantly retrieved and returned it. (So, be careful if you park there!) This multi-use trail is no longer marked and currently is covered in leaves; however, the college and a subdivision border it so it is not in wilderness. Beware of private property though. We headed up the first loop to the ridge, where Nicka identified Bradford pear blooming. We made the loop and headed south to complete the lower loop. We began our uphill push to the top of the ridge near the cell towers, where we could see the blue mountains in the distance. We continued downhill, re-walked our first loop in the opposite direction, and saw a blue violet—the first spring wildflower of our hike! We ended up hiking two miles. Short but sweet! • Judy Price Trip Report: We had a wonderful St. Paddy's Day hike in green on the Nature Trail! The weather was warm and overcast. Wildflowers were starting to bloom—blue violets and wood sorrel (shamrocks!). A pileated woodpecker yelled at us and Kelly wondered if we were close to its nest. On the upper ridge, we got what may be our last look until winter of the mountains in the distance. We hiked approximately two miles. Hikers were Phyllis Anderson, Kelly Ducham, Carin Taber, and Hike Leader Judy Price. • Judy Price
MARCH 18, 2024 HIKE TO CANEY CREEK VILLAGE
Begin at 1,604 ft. elevation and hike down to 840 ft. elevation to see the remains of Caney Creek Village, then hike back up. This village existed from 1912-1941. It had electricity, indoor plumbing, mass transit, a lighted tennis court and a hotel. It's known as the only community in America that never had a vehicle or horse in the community. The remains are visible because the concrete foundations were made of the same grade of concrete as the dams on the Ocoee. Members of the community built the flume along the Ocoee. Length of the hike is 6 miles. Rating: Moderate Hike Leaders: Clare and Ed Sullivan If you plan to attend, drop a note to Cherokeeehikngclub@gmail.com. Trip Report: Caney Creek is Always an Exciting Hike! Hiking down to the extinct village of Caney Creek on the beautiful Ocoee River in the Cherokee National Forest always brings amazement to the eyes of hikers. Perhaps our most interesting photo this year was of the remains of one of the fishing ponds near the foundation of a supervisor's home. The fishing pond had a beautiful rock covered with new foliage and was full of frog eggs. The pole for the net on the tennis court was standing tall as were many other remains. Brushing aside some leaves, we found evidence of the century-old sidewalk. We enjoyed seeing new spring dwarf irises, star chickweed, and hepatica. Once again, the hike had lots of challenges since the trail was cleared in January and there have been lots of gusty winds since then. Hikers were David LaBine, Sharon Royal, Hike Leader Clare Sullivan, Irene Hall, and Doug Lynch. Additional photos David Labine. • Clare Sullivan
MARCH 21, 2024 | THURSDAY-CHILDERS CREEK TO BIG BEND | CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
Impromptu hike along the Hiwassee River. Six miles round trip. Rating moderate. Meet at Childers Creek Trailhead at 10:30 am. Should see lots of wildflowers this time of year! Contact Hike Leader Leslie Auriemmo at LAuriemmo@yahoo.com if interested.Trip Report: Well, the day started out smoky, as the Forest Service had conducted a prescribed burn in the Narrows area of the Hiwassee the day before; but the smoke quickly cleared out, and it became a perfect day for hiking. The wildflowers are definitely starting to bloom along the Hiwassee, and we should see more in the next couple of weeks. There are a few trees down along the trail but nothing that was not easy to go around, over, or under. We had a pleasant lunch at Big Bend before we started our three-mile trek back to Childers Creek. All in all, a beautiful day and a pleasant six-mile hike! • Leslie Auriemmo
MARCH 25, 2024 | MONDAY - GEE CREEK FALLS | CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
LOOP TRAIL | HIWASSEE OCOEE RIVERS STATE PARK
We will hike approximately 2.6 miles total from the Gee Creek Trailhead through a former mining area to the falls and back. Then we will drive to the state park to hike the easy one-mile Loop Trail. We hope to see many wildflowers so these hikes will be very leisurely. Bring food and water; wear appropriate hiking footwear. Contact Hike Leaders Kelly Ducham and Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details. Trip Report: Three hikers—Charlene Sudore and Hiker Leaders Kelly Ducham and Judy Price—did a wildflower hike on the Loop Trail despite a wind advisory. We had planned to hike Gee Creek Trail in Cherokee National Forest also, but a reliable source (Carin Taber—thank you!) warned us that a portion of Gee Creek Road was flooded. The redbud trees around the parking lot were a riot of pink. Many wildflowers were still closed when we started the trail since it was chilly and overcast; fortunately, the blooms were open as we finished. The star of the day was the Virginia bluebell! Its blue, pink, and white flowers were simply magnificent. We also saw trout lily, spring beauty, ground-ivy, blue phlox (another stunner!), rue anemone, ragwort, yellow wakerobin trillium (always gorgeous!), cut-leaved toothwort, small buttercup, bluet, wild geranium, blue violet, cream or white violet, and mayapple (with the flowers starting to form). Bloodroot leaves were up but it had already bloomed. Kelly had been birding prior to the hike and had spotted some mergansers on the Hiwassee River. We began hiking and when we reached the spot, she pointed the birds out and got great camera shots of a male and female floating downriver. We were able to see the ancient weir at the Gee Creek Campground put-in. We had almost completed the loop when one of the hike leaders, who shall remain nameless but whose name rhymes with Trudy Rice, discovered she had left her trekking pole somewhere on the trail. Charlene and Kelly suggested we retrace our steps to try to find it and we ended up doing the trail about three times for a total of over three miles. On the way out, Kelly noticed a sleeping bee. We reported the missing trekking pole to the Visitor Center Lost and Found. While in the center, we paid a visit to the resident corn snake. Thus, our hike concluded. • Judy Price
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 2, 2024 TUESDAY HIKE IN THE NO NAME FALLS AREA TO VIEW WILDFLOWERS
Approximately 2.5 miles easy walk on a short loop walk to view the wildflowers along the stream.
Meet at the Clemmer trailhead off Highway 30 just north of Parksville Lake at 10:00 am. Bring water and a lunch or snacks. Event Leader Ruth Pannell. Text Ruth at 423-506-9623 if you plan to attend.
APRIL 4,2024 GUIDED TOUR OF FORT LOUDOUN STATE HISTORIC SITE
Meet at the parking lot in front of the museum visitor center at 9:30 am to get signed in and join our tour guide at 10:00 am. We will get a guided tour in the museum, with a video, then walk about 1.2 mile total as we are guided around the old fort site. The tour will last about two hours depending on the interest and questions asked. For lunch we can eat at the pizza house in Vonore or try a restaurant in Lenoir City. To carpool from Cleveland, and if you plan to attend the event, contact Event Leader Jack Callahan text at 423-284-7885.
APRIL 5, 2024 FRIDAY BLACK MOUNTAIN TRAIL IN CRAB ORCHARD, TN.
Nine plus/minus moderate miles with 1600 foot elevation gain. There is a cave, enormous rock formations a spring house and a great view at the top. Meet at MacDonalds parking lot in Spring City Tn at 9:30 am to carpool to the trailhead. Contact Event Leader, Sue Robinson at text 423-519-9751 if you plan to attend.
APRIL 6, 2024 SATURDAY GUIDED TOUR OF THE WARDEN FIELDS HISTORIC SITE
Join in on a historic three mile hike in the Warden Fields, also know as the Jeffery Community, area near Citico Creek. This is an easy hike with no stream crossings.
The Jeffery area was a village of local mountain families before it became a logging camp of Badcock Lumber Co. It was a collection point for logs to be transported to Vonore along the Little Tennessee River. The land was later purchased by the Forest Service, and built a wardens cabin there, hence the name.
Chris will lead an interpretive hike on the history of the area. This will be a great event with a lot of interesting local history. Meet at 10:00 am at the Cherohala Skyway Visitors Center in Tellico Plains to carpool to the trailhead.
Hike leaders Chris Hollinghead, Rick and Brenda Harris. Text Rick Harris at 513-260-1184 or harrisri@aol.com if you plan to attend.
APRIL 11, 2024 | THURSDAY 6 PM - MONTHLY CLUB MEETING | CHARLESTON TN CITY PARK PAVILION
Bring your favorite dish for the potluck dinner. The club will furnish drinks, cups, and eating utensils. The program is Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) by Jack Callahan.
APRIL 12 MONDAY - FLATS MTN TRAIL (pages 68, 76)
Moderate, 6.2 miles with shuttle
Flats Mountain overlooks the Indian Boundary Recreation Area. We will leave shuttle vehicles at the bottom at Beehouse Gap on Citico Creek Rd, then drive to Eagle Gap at Mile 18.4 on the Skyway. The trail is for the most part downhill, but we will start out with a climb on an old road to the top of Flats Mtn. There is also another climb about half way through the hike. After the hike we will retrieve our vehicles at Eagle Gap on the Skyway. The central part of the trail is often brushy with blackberry bushes, so wear long pants. We will eat lunch about mile 3 on the hike in an unnamed gap. Contact Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris text 513-260-1184 or harrisri@aol.com if you plan to attend.
APRIL 13, 2024 | SATURDAY SODDY CREEK GORGE SECTION (SOUTH)
This is the second part of our three-part Soddy Creek Gorge hike. Little Soddy Trailhead to Mowbray Pike Trailhead. Five miles, moderate, elevation change 450 feet. We will hike through a historic mining area, along a ridge with beautiful views, and past other remarkable sights. There are some seasonal creek/drainage crossings. There is a three-mile shuttle and we will need at least one volunteer driver. Bring food and water; wear appropriate hiking footwear and bring rain gear if necessary; and carry trekking poles. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details.
APRIL 16, 2024 THURSDAY BIG SODDY CREEK TRAIL
Meet at Dollar Tree (the former Fresh 'n' Low) on Georgetown Road in Cleveland at 10 am to carpool to site. Big Soddy Creek Gulf Trail in Soddy-Daisy is considered part of the Jim Adams Wilderness Walkway. Out and back is about four miles on the wide trail. The trail is basically wide and easy along the creek with the waterfall right on the trail. There is an option for a steeper area at the end of the primary trail. There are a number of swimming holes or wading areas along the way. It can be really pretty when wildflowers are out. It is a well-used pathway and always a pleasant walk. Text Event Leaders Lettie and Jim Whisman at 812-779-6274 if you plan to attend.
APRIL 18, 2024 THURSDAY, - BUGGY TOP/SHAKE RAG HOLLOW
First we will hike to Buggy Top Cave entrance, about a 4 mile round trip, a moderate hike with lots of rock formations. Completing that hike we will have lunch at the student cafeteria at the University of the South. Them we will move on to the wildflower hike on Shake Rag Hollow, on the east end of the campus. This hike is about three miles, with a couple of short sections of steep grade. Lucia has a contact if anyone would like to stay at a B&B overnight at Sewanee before or after the days event. Contact event leaders Lucia Case text at 404-210-9634 or Anne Anderson text at 423-284-7032 if you plan to attend. Meet at the Park and Ride at 9:00 am in Cleveland at Exit 25/Highway 60 to carpool. NOTE: THE BUGGY TOP PORTION OF THIS HIKE WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR THE FALL
APRIL 20. 2024, SATURDAY TOUR COKE OVEN MUSEUM AND REAMINS AT DUNLAP TN.
The museum opens at 10:00am. It is constructed to the original design of the original company structure that was there during the height of the operation. It is filled with hundreds of artifacts of the period which give a great history of the operation of the coal mines and the oven’s operation. There are the remains of some 285 coke ovens on the site, and many are in almost original condition, and are an easy walk to see and observe. We will spend about two hours at the historic site, then drive about 5-6 miles to the Cookie Jar Resturant for lunch. If you plan to attend, text Event Leader Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885.
.
APRIL 23, 2024 TUESDAY NEW ECHOTA RANGER GUIDED TOUR
Meet at the parking lot in front of the museum at 9:45 am. The tour begins at 10:00am and will begin in the museum and the viewing of a short video, and tour of the museum. Them we will be guided outside to the many period building on site. New Echota was the Capitol of the Cherokee Nation for several years in the 1830s prior to the removal. The tour will last about two hours and will be about one mile of easy walking. After the tour we will have a picnic lunch on site. There will be a small fee for the tour. Bring your lunch and water or soft drinks. For anyone wanting to carpool from Cleveland, Meet at the Park and Ride at exit 25, I-75 and Highway 60 at 8:30 am. Event Leaders, Judy Price and Jack Callahan. Text Jack at 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend.
APRIL 29-MAY 3, 2024, MONDAY TO FRIDAY GROUP CAMP AND DAY HIKES, STANDING INDIAN CAMPGROUND NEAR FRANKLIN NC.
This is a very nice campground. It has showers in the regular camping areas, and restrooms in the group areas. For now, I have reserved regular Sites 61 and 62. Site 61 is a single site and we can have up to five people there and two vehicles. Site 62 is a double site and we can have up to 10 people and four vehicles. These are the club members that have indicated they will likely attend:
Sue Robinson, Bruce Lee, James Anderson, Jack Callahan (2), Charlie Snow, Sandra Fenton, Michelle Ritter, Marti Owensby (2?), Jennifer Schroll, and me (total of 11). Jack made a reservation for a site, so the two sites I have should be enough for the current group. We can add more and get another site or a group site if desired. If folks are interested in going together for group meals in the evenings, let me know. You will need to bring food for your breakfasts and lunches. I put together a list of possible hikes for the group. I have options each day for those that may want something less strenuous (see below). There are many hikes in the area, so if you have other suggestions, let me know.
I attached a copy of a map [at the end of the Upcoming Events section] showing the general area with the Appalachian Trail (AT) shown on the map in orange.
• Day 1, April 29
Arrive at campground and set up camp. Check-in is at 2:00 pm.
Do a shorter hike in the campground vicinity, possibly Kimsey Creek. Note: This is a relatively easy hike with about 200 feet elevation gain the first 2 miles. There is a nice view of the stream, but there will be at some point some wet areas. So, plan to have waterproof shoes, water shoes, or a change of socks ready.
• Day 2, April 30, Standing Indian Mountain Hike or Option for Park Creek Loop
Option 1: 9:00 am drive about eight miles to Deep Gap on AT via Hwy 64 and Forest Road 71. Park at Deep Gap on AT. Hike 2.7 miles to Standing Indian Mountain and return (5.4 miles total), about 1000 feet elevation gain. Rated strenuous due to elevation gain. Nice trail and well-graded without too many very steep sections. Water available to treat or filter about one mile in near Standing Indian Shelter. Wonderful view on top. For those that want to hike more, you could return to the campground via the Kimsey Creek Trail, another about 3.6 miles.
Option 2 for those wanting a less strenuous hike: Park Creek Trail. About 5.5-mile loop trail near campground. This hike has only about 300 feet elevation gain. Does not have overlooks but nice views of the stream. Recent reviews have noted one large down tree and possibly some smaller trees to work around. Some have noted the trail was hard to follow in spots, so use of GPS device recommended. Probably should wear long pants.
• Day 3, May 1, Albert Mountain, Two Possible Routes
Option 1: 9:00 am, hike via Blackwell Gap Trail to AT, 1.8 miles, about 500 feet elevation gain. On AT, go south 3.1 miles to Albert Mountain, about 750 feet elevation gain, last 0.5 miles steep, 1250 feet total elevation gain for the hike. Return mostly downhill, total hike about 8.8 miles. Water available at Long Branch Shelter about half way out. Views at top wonderful. Rated strenuous.
Option 2: 9:00am. Drive about two miles to Bear Pen Gap trailhead. Hike about three miles to Albert Mountain, about 350 feet elevation gain. Return, total hike six miles. Last 0.3 miles very steep. Rated moderate. Note: There is another option to drive to a parking area and just hike 0.3 miles to top.
• Day 4, May 2, Two AT Hikes from Winding Stair Gap, One south, One north
Option 1: Northbound Hike to Silar Bald. Drive about eight miles to Winding Stair Gap, Hwy 64. Hike north on AT for 4.3 miles to turnoff to Silar Bald, about 0.2 to top. About 1500 feet elevation gain total. Return to Winding Stair Gap. 8.9 miles total. Rated strenuous. Great views on top of bald. Last time I did this hike, trail up to the bald was somewhat overgrown, so long pants recommended. Water available along the trail.
Option 2: Leave shuttle vehicle at Rock Gap. Drive to Winding Stair Gap. Hike south on AT 3.6 miles south to Rock Gap 3.6 miles, elevation gain about 500 feet. A longer option would be to hike another 2.5 miles to Glassmine Gap and then 1.7 back to Campground, adding about 4.2 with about another 500 feet elevation gain (about 7.8 miles total, about 1000 feet elevation gain), no shuttle required if using the longer route.
• Day 5, May 3
Break camp and return or do other hikes if desired. Check out at campground required by 11:00 am.
Contact Event Leader Buddy Arnold at we_arnold@outlook.com or 601-415-3551 for more information or to sign up for the event.
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 7, 2024 TUESDAY PINEY FALLS /RIVER TRAIL
Hike 1.6 miles to Piney Falls, two large waterfalls. Trail is rocky with some short steep sections and an optional cable climb. This hike could be extended based on the group by driving to another trailhead along the Piney river for an in/out hike. Meet at the McDonalds in Spring City at 10:00 am. Contact Hike leader Sue Robinson at text 423-519-9751 if you plan to attend.
MAY 8 WEDNESDAY, HAIG MILL LAKE PARK DALTON
This is a 3.5 mile walk around the lake. Rated as moderate because there are some roots and rocky areas but nothing significant in elevation or difficulty. Picnicking there would be easy enough there’s a pavilion area, but there are several really good places to eat in downtown Dalton as well. The trail at Haig Mill Lake Park in Dalton Georgia is one we discovered after the Westmore outdoor night. Hike leaders Lettie and Jim Whisman, text Lettie at 812-779-6274 if you plan to attend.
MAY 9, 2024, THURSDAY CLUB MEETING AT MACAMY LAKE IN CHILHOWIE CAMPGROUND, CHEROKEE NATIONAL FOREST
Come early and do one of several hikes including Trailing Arbutis, Benton Falls or the short walk around the lake. The club will provide hotdogs and all the fixins for supper. Members are encouraged to bring a dessert. We will eat at 5:00 pm. There is a parking fee required per vehicle. Event leader Jack Callahan.
MAY 10, 2024 FRIDAY STONE DOOR TO GREETER FALLS HIKE
Meet at the Park and Ride commuter parking at exit 25 in Cleveland, TN, at 9:00 am EDT to carpool to the trailhead, or meet at the Greeter Falls Trailhead at 10:00 am CDT. Approximately 6.5-mile moderate hike with shuttle required. Current plans are to drop a vehicle at the Greeter Falls Trailhead and drive to Stone Door Trailhead to begin hike. We will not go into the gorge at Stone Door, but stay on the Rim Trail. Text Event Leaders Marrie Lasater and Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend.
MAY 11 SATURDAY - WARRIORS PASSAGE TRAIL (Pages 40, 48)
Moderate, 6.2 miles with shuttle.
We will leave vehicles at the lower trailhead on Old Furnace Rd, then drive to the top of Waucheesi Bald. High clearance 4WD vehicles recommended, especially the last half mile to the top of the bald. This hike starts at the top of Waucheesi Bald by the site of the old firetower, now communication towers, on a small bald with views into the surrounding mountains. We will hike steadily downhill for over 2300' with one short uphill till we reach Wildcat Creek. We will have to ford Wildcat Creek and possible Tobe Creek (depending on water levels), so bring water shoes, extra socks, and a small towel. From Wildcat Creek, we have an uphill climb to Old Furnace Rd. We will eat lunch at Tobe Creek. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, contact Rick at text 513-260-1184 or harrisri@aol.com if you plan to attend.
MAY 21, 2024, TUESDAY GLEN FALLS HIKE
A three mile out and back hike with a total of about 300 feet. If you plan to attend, you must contact Hike Leader Jennifer Schroll, text 423-284-1256, to determine the carpool location as parking is limited at the Ochs trailhead. Tentatively meeting at 10:00am then an optional lunch in Chattanooga after the hike.
MAY 30, 2024, THURSDAY TOUR OF THE HISTORIC TUNNEL HILL SITE
Join on a guided tour of the historic hand dug railroad tunnel completed before the Civil War, along with the museum and several period structures including a home that was used as a field hospital. Cost is $15 per person at this time. Meet at the Food City parking lot just off the Cleveland bypass on the south side of town on SE McGrady Drive at 9:15 am to carpool to the site. Contact Event Leader Jack Callahan at text 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.
JUNE 4, 2024, TUESDAY BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM AND LUNCH AFRTERWARDS AT GRAND OAKS HOME.
Tour the Booth Western Museum (admission adults $13, seniors $11). The museum has some of the most outstanding collection of western art, including several Remington’s. On display will be highlights of the Eddie Basha collection, part of the largest private collection of Western American and American Indian Art in the world. We will tour the museum from 10 till around noon, then make the short drive to Grand Oaks for a lunch in a stunning home in Cartersville ( cost about $15 per person). To carpool from Cleveland, meet at the Food City parking lot on SE McGrady Drive in south Cleveland at 8:15 am. If you plan to attend, you must register with the Event Leader Jack Callahan at text 423-284-7885.
JUNE 13, 2024 THURSDAY MONTHLY CLUB MEETING POT LUCK SUPPER
After the meal and a short business meeting Leslie Auriemmo will give a presentation on the newly formed Friends of the Cherokee National Forest. Join to hear what this group will be doing and how we might interact with them.
JUNE 18, 2024 TUESDAY DAY HIKE TO MT LECONTE IN THE SMOKIES
This is an 11 mile round trip hike with a climb of 2,853 feet. Pack a lunch and sufficient water (water is available at the lodge so you can refill there). It is approximately a three hour drive from Cleveland to the Alum Cave trailhead where the hike will begin. There is a parking fee to park anywhere over 15 minutes in the GSMNP. Contact event leaders Rob and Janet Coombs for additional details.
JUNE 24, 2024, MONDAY - BOB BALD (Pages 62, 70)
Moderately Difficult, 7 miles round trip with 900' climb.
We will park at the state line at Beech Gap on the Skyway. The first 2 miles is on an old FS road with only minimal climbing. When we reach the end of the road, we will head up the BMT to Bob Bald, a climb of 900' and quite steep in places. Once we reach the top we will enjoy the views and eat lunch, then head back to Beech Gap on the Skyway. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, text Rick at 513-260-1184 or email harrisri@aol.com 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.
JULY 9,2024 TUESDAY FALLS BRANCH FALLS
Moderate, 2.4 miles with a 500' climb out of the gorge of the falls.
We will drive on the Skyway to mile 22.5 at the West Rattlesnake Trailhead. From there we will hike down an old roadbed for about a mile, then steeply descend into the gorge, cross the creek (usually not requiring water shoes), then hike up to the base of the falls on a difficult trail. We will eat lunch there, then return the way we came, mostly uphill. The falls are spectacular and are about 90' high. Text Event Leader Sue Robinson at 423-519-9751 if you plan to attend.
JULY 11, 2024, MONTHLY CLUB MEETING SUGAR LOAF TVA PICNIC AREA POT LUCK SUPER
Ruth Pannel Event Leader
JULY 13, 2024, SATURDAY - KIRKLAND CREEK TRAIL (Pages 56, 64)
Moderate, but with 11 stream crossings, 6.7 miles. We will leave vehicles at the Bald River Rd trailhead near the Holly Flats CG, then drive a fairly long distance to Sandy Gap on the BMT. We will hike, almost all the way, downhill to the lower trailhead. At about mile 3 we reach the first stream crossing on Waucheesi Creek, then cross this creek and Kirkland Creek itself a total of 11 times. The last crossing is across the Bald River. So come prepared with water shoes, extra socks and a towel. We will eat lunch at the campsite by the first stream crossing. Afterwards, we will have to drive the long shuttle once again to retrieve our shuttle vehicles. Event Leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, text rick at 513-260-1184 or email harrisri@aol.com if you plan to attend.
JULY 16, 2024 TUESDAY SNORKLE, SWIN AND PICNIC ON CONASAGA RIVER
Meet at the MapCo station on 411 and Ladd Springs road at 10:00 am to caravan to the river. Options are for hikes along the river of one to two miles, swim and or snorkel, or all three. Individuals will be responsible for their own snorkel, mask, fins and life jacket. If you plan to swim bring water shoes and a towel. Everyone swill be responsible for their own lunch and drinks. Facilities at the site include picnic tables and a vault toilet. There is a Ranger guided tour available for a cost of $30 per person that we can discuss at the upcoming club meeting if individuals would like to consider doing that. If you plan to attend the 16 July event, contact Event Leader Lucia Case at text 404-210-9634.
JULY 30, 2024 TUESDAY HIWASSEE RIVER FLOAT TRIP
Paddle/float from Reliance Public boat ramp next to Hiwassee Outfitters to 411 Bridge. Meet at the boat ramp at 1:00 pm. Contact Event Leader Sue Robinson at text 423-519-9751 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.
AUGUST 8, 2024 NO CLUB MEETING THIS MONTH
AUGUST 12, 2024 MONDAY - WHIGG MEADOW (Pages 64, 74)
East to mildly moderate, 2.6 miles, 500' climb
We will drive to the Mud Gap Trailhead of the BMT at mile 3.5 on the NC side of the Skyway. We will hike on an old roadbed steadily uphill to the 5000' summit of Whigg Meadow, a large wide open bald with expansive views into the surrounding mountains. We will eat lunch there, then return to Mud Gap. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, text Rick at 513-260-1184 or email harrisri@aol.com 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.
SEPTEMBER 4-15, 2024 6/5 BACKPACKING TRIP IN WEMINUCHE WILDERNESS, SOUTHERN COLORADO
44 mile six day 5 night backpacking trip with the majority of trail above 10,000 feet. This is a difficult hike and the slots are limited. The maximum limit is 12 hikers. If you are interested, contact Jack Callahan at 423-284-7885 for more information.
SEPTEMBER 21 SATURDAY - FALL BRANCH FALLS (Pages 70, 78)
Moderate, 2.4 miles with a 500' climb out of the gorge of the falls.
We will drive on the Skyway to mile 22.5 at the West Rattlesnake Trailhead. From there we will hike down an old roadbed for about a mile, then steeply descend into the gorge, cross the creek (usually not requiring water shoes), then hike up to the base of the falls on a difficult trail. We will eat lunch there, then return the way we came, mostly uphill. The falls are spectacular and are about 90' high. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, text Rick at 513-260-1184 or email harrisri@aol.com if you plan to attend.
SEPTEMBER 23-26, 2024, ROAN MOUNTAIN BIRDING EVENT AND CAMPOUT
Join in for several day hikes to the balds and other nearby locations to watch and learn about many of the migratory birds that will be passing through the area. The state park has numerous cabins and there is camping available also. If you plan to reserve a cabin or camp site, suggest you do so quickly as the sites fill up quickly. If you camp, consider the first loop on the right as you enter the campground as it is on flat ground. Individual day hikes will be determined on the evening of the first night. We will have our club birding specialists the Duchams and the Dornfelds to share their expertise with us. Event leaders Kelly Ducham, Bob Dornfeld and Jack Callahan.
SEPTEMBER 28, 2024 SATURDAY, CLUB TRAIL MAINTENANCE OF BMT/JOHN MUIR TRAIL SECTION
The club maintains the section of the BMT/John Muri trail from Childers Creek to Big Bend. We will do maintenance on this section with Event Leader James Anderson in charge. Typical work involves brushing and loping limbs out of the trail, and trash cleanup. This is a lovely and heavily used section of trail, and we like to have our section well maintained. Text James at 423-715-8824 if you plan to attend.
SEPTEMBER 30 MONDAY - THE HANGOVER (Pages 94, 102)
Difficult, 7.5 miles.
This difficult hike will start from the Wolf Laurel Trailhead in NC, about an hour drive from the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center. We will first climb steeply about 500' to the ridgecrest to meet the Haoe Lead Trail and the BMT. We will turn right (north) and steeply descend 500' to Naked Ground, a great camping area. Then we will steeply climb up 500' to Haoe and down to the Hangover itself. On the stretch between Naked Ground and Haoe, the trail in places is often very overgrown with sticker bushes due to a fire several years ago at the same time as the Gatlinburg Fire. So wear long pants. The views are incomparable with a 360 degree range of mountains, including the Smokies and the valley of the Little Tennessee, the Tennessee, and the Cheoah Rivers. We will eat lunch at the Hangover, one of the most scenic spots in the Southern Appalachians. Warning: this is a demanding hike. Hike leaders Rick and Brenda Harris, text Rick at 513-260-1184 or email harrisri@aol.com 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.
OCTOBER 10, 2024 THURSDAY MONTHLY CLUB MEETING AT ROB AND JANET COOMBS HOME
Bring your horse shoe and cornhole skills….MORE INFORMATION WILL BE FORTHCOMING.
OCTOBER 13-17, 2024 GROUP CAMPOUT AT BIG SOUTH FORK
The club has the Group Camp Loop E reserved in the Bandy Creek Campground, where we have stayed for the past several years. There are 18 individual campsites. No electrical or water hookups at the sites. The Group Camp has a screened in shelter with electricity, picnic tables and a nice large fireplace. The camp also has a bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets. There are many interesting trails with great views and great arches and rock formations available. We will develop individual day hikes when we arrive on site the first night. Typically, there are two or three hikes each day of varying degree of difficulty. For those who would prefer to stay at a cabin, Pickett Memorial State Park is about a 30 minute drive to the east of Bandy Creek campground. The cost for the Group campground per individual will be determined by the number of nights stayed. If you plan to attend, contact Event Leader Jack Callahan at text 423-284-7885.
OCTOBER 28-NOVEMBER 1, 2024 AT BACKPACKING TRIP
Day 1 Drive to Deep Gap , USFS Road 71. Shuttle or drive to Around the Bend Hostel on Hwy 76 in GA. Hike about 0.5 miles to Dick’s Gap and then 3.9 miles to Plumorchard Gap Shelter.
Day 2 Hike 7.2 miles to Muskrat Creek Shelter.
Day 3 Hike 4.5 miles to Dick’s Gap, then about 0.9 miles to Standing Indian Shelter. Optional hike that afternoon, out and back to Standing Indian Mountain, about 3.2 miles total.
Day 4 Hike 0.9 miles to Deep Gap and vehicles.
Note: Hostel formerly know as Top of Georgia Hostel is under new management and may thus a new name. They do offer shuttle service and vehicles can park there. We can possibly shuttle using our vehicles depending on the number of participants. Rated strenuous due to length and elevation gains.
Hike coordinator Buddy Arnold, we_arnold@outlook.com and cell phone 601-415-3551.
OCTOBER 29, 2024 CHILDERES CREEK TO BIG BEND
We will hike six miles on the John Muir trail along the Hiwassee River. Meet at the Childers Creek trailhead at 9:00 am. Bring lunch and water. Rated moderate. Contact Hike Leader Leslie Auriemmo at text 423-331-8967 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.
NOVEMBER 2, 2024 | SATURDAY SODDY CREEK GORGE SECTION (NORTH)
Little Soddy Trailhead to Big Soddy Creek Gulf Trailhead. Approximately seven miles, moderate to strenuous due to miles, elevation, and terrain. We will pass through a former mining area. There are two creek crossings over bridges; we will hike down into the creek gorges and back up. We will exit through Big Soddy Creek Gulf trails. Estimated uphill elevation change on the entire north section is 1200 feet. There is a three-mile shuttle and we will need at least one volunteer driver. Contact Hike Leader Judy Price at cherokeehikingclub@gmail.com for meetup details.
NOVEMBER 5, 2024, TUESDAY WALK IN THE WOODS, FOLLOWED BY LUNCH AT HAWK CREEK VILLAGE
James Anderson will lead the Walk in the Woods, a 1.5 mile or 4.5-mile hike on the loop trails at Johnson woods. Following this walk, Lucia Case will lead a tour of the Hawk Creek Village, which is about one mile from the Johnson Woods trailhead located on Johnson school Road. This is a collection of interesting log structures on private property. Bring lunch if you plan to make a day of it. Contact Event Leader James Anderson at 423-715-8824 if you plan to attend the walk in the woods. Contact Lucia Case at 404-210-9634 if you plan to do the Hawk Creek Village tour.
NOVEMBER 9, 2024 SATURDAY HISTORIC CCC CAMP AT SYLCO TOWN
Bushwhack into the site of a former CCC camp to see the remains of the camp campus. While we are in the area we will attempt to find the old Sylco cemetery, schoolhouse and other building sites of the long ago abandoned town. Meet at the TVA Sugarloaf Picnic area on Hwy 64 east of Cleveland at 9:30 am to carpool to the site. Wear appropriate boots and clothing for walking through underbrush and briers. Contact Event Leader Jack Callahan at text 423-284-7885 if you plan to attend.
NOVEMBER 14, 2024, THURSDAY MONTHLY CLUB MEETING
Meet at 6:00pm for pot luck supper at the Etowah Senior Center, followed by a brief business meeting then the much touted presentation of the “Trip to Italy”, preformed mostly in Italian, by Otis Pannel and Lucia Case.
NOVEMBER 23, 2024, SATURDAY FLETCHER PARK, CLEVELAND, THE GREAT COMPAS COURSE TIMED EVENT
Bring your best compass and pacing skills and test your ability to follow the azimuth and distance course of approximately 0.2 miles in the park. Helicopters will be on call to rescue the lost souls if not making the rout in a reasonable length of time. Event Leaders, Jennefer Schroll and Jack Callahan, text Jack 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.
DECEMBER 14, 2024, SATURDAY ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY
Meet at the Etowah Senior Center for lunch with a sit down time of 12:30 pm. Arrive around 12:00 noon to claim your seat and get settled in for a great catered Christmas Dinner. After the meal, the 2025 officers will be inducted and then the always entertaining “unwashed Santa “ gift exchange will be held.
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..