Benton McKaye Trail: Lost Creek

Tuesday, December 13 — BMT Lost Creek Campground to Childers Creek, about 3 miles in & out, easy. This is an especially outstanding section of the Benton McKaye Trail (BMT) as it parallels Big Lost Creek through a deep limestone gorge with cascades and waterfalls. The trail follows an old railroad grade built for logging in the early 1900s, then later used for a road. Beautiful rock formations are seen on both sides of the trail, with plenty of great stopping places. The hike will be an in-and-out till we can find out where it comes into Reliance. The only drawback is a 7-mile access drive on a gravel road. However, the road is in excellent condition compared to other Forest Service roads in the Cherokee NF. Check the forecast and choose appropriate layers, wear hiking shoes or boots, bring snacks and lunch, sunscreen, and more water than you think you need. It’s never a mistake to bring a rain jacket and hiking poles. For carpooling/caravanning, meet near the gas station at Food City in Ooltewah, right off I-75 exit 11, at 8:30 am ET. https://bit.ly/3dwmbxn Please register with hike leader Trish Appleton, (423) 240-3443 or appleton-p2@comcast.net Carpool gas cost: 5 dollars.