Benton McKaye Trail

Tuesday, June 4 — Benton McKaye Trail: Lost Creek Campground to Hiwassee River at Reliance TN, 4-5 miles, easy/moderate due to medium hills at the beginning and end of the hike. Requires a 30-minute shuttle. We will drop off cars near the railroad overpass beyond the Hiwassee Outfitters campground, then go to the Lost Creek Campground. The drive is mostly on a dirt road in surprisingly good condition. Just before the campground, it takes us past the trailhead, which we walk back to by turning right out of the campground. This section of the BMT is mostly a pleasant stroll along Big Lost Creek, which cascades through a lush gorge. The creek has kindly carved out some very interesting rock formations for our rock-o-philes. This part of the trail used to be a railroad graded very gently for hauling logs, aka almost flat. 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 (it’s summer!); gather up sunscreen and insect repellent (essential), and hiking poles and rain jacket as needed. For carpooling/caravanning, meet at 7:30 am ET in the parking area near the gas station at Food City in Ooltewah, right (east) off I-75 exit 11. https://bit.ly/3dwmbxn  Please register with hike leader Tom McElhone, 805-208-4654 or sarmitta@yahoo.com. Carpool cost $5.00.