Old Copper Road

Tuesday, July 23 — Old Copper Road and Rhododendron Trails near Benton TN, 5.7 miles, easy. Short shuttle involved. This is a very pleasant and shaded walk along the Ocoee River, with its many entertaining rapids and curiously carved rocks. This river was the site of the whitewater competitions for the 1996 Summer Olympics, with a section narrowed from 200 feet to 70 feet to create a series of intense rapids. We will start hiking at the upper trailhead of the Old Copper Road, below TVA’s #3 dam. In a couple of miles, we will reach the Olympic section, with its paved trails and two bridges across the river. We’ll cross the river and continue on the Rhododendron Trail to Thunder Rock. Check the weather forecast within a day of the hike, as earlier forecasts can change dramatically. Choose appropriate layers; wear hiking shoes or boots; bring snacks and/or lunch along with more water than you think you need; use insect repellent; gather up hiking poles, sunscreen, and rain jacket as needed. For carpooling/caravanning, meet at 7:30 am ET in parking area near the gas station at Food City in Ooltewah, right (east) off I-75 exit 11. https://bit.ly/3dwmbxn  Registration with the hike leader is necessary to receive cancellation notifications, etc.: Will Latham, (704) 365-8889. Carpool cost: $2.00.