CT: Little Soddy Trail

Saturday, December 3 — Cumberland Trail: Little Soddy Trailhead to Soddy Gulf Trailhead, moderate, about 7 miles. Think of this hike as a calorie-burning romp before our Scenic City Christmas party. We’ll take a tour of the remnants of coal mining operations from long ago, maybe even feel the ghosts of miners and their 24 mining mules. Then we’ll swing up and around to the Deep Creek gorge, where rock climbers have replaced the ghosts, and take a bridge across an unusual min-gorge filled with giant boulders. Next we hike to Big Soddy Creek gorge, where we’ll cross a truly impressive bridge. It is so high that it will probably survive for a long time…we hope. After once again ascending toward the top of the plateau, we’ll roll down into the valley again, where we’ll check out rumors that there is now a bridge across Board Camp Creek. But don’t count on it. Bring your water shoes. Remember to check the forecast, wear appropriate layers and 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. With only a very short drive and a moderate hike, we’ll get back in plenty of time to become respectable for the party. For carpooling/ caravanning, meet at the Durham Street parking lot (ball fields) off Dayton Pike in Soddy-Daisy at 8.30 am ET. Carpool gas cost: 1 dollar.

https://bit.ly/3Qjdc0S Please register with hike leader Betsy Darken, (423) 718-2060.