Hawkins Ridge Trail

Tuesday, June 18 — Forest Hills Cemetery and Hawkins Ridge Trail, with an urban walk in historic St. Elmo, Chattanooga, moderate, around 3-4 miles. St. Elmo is Chattanooga’s first suburb and one of its Historic Districts. It includes Forest Hills Cemetery, a beautiful cemetery that was established in 1880 near the foot of Lookout Mountain. Its monuments display a wide range of architectural styles and the gravesites include those of Civil War officers, prominent citizens, unknown children who died at a local orphanage, and local residents up to the present day. From our meeting spot, we will walk a short distance to wander around the cemetery. Afterwards we’ll walk a few blocks through historic St. Elmo to the trailhead for Hawkins Ridge Trail. This wooded ridge is parallel to Lookout Mountain and located between St. Elmo and Alton Park. The trail provides glimpses of these surroundings along with signs of old mining activities. After a mile or so, we will take a side trail back down into the Historic District, passing by many attractive houses built in the late Victorian Era and early 20^th century, along with newer houses that may or may not blend in with the older décor. Check the weather forecast within a day of the hike, as earlier forecasts can change dramatically. Choose appropriate layers; wear hiking shoes or boots; put on sunscreen and insect repellent; bring snacks and/or lunch along with more water than you think you need (it’s summer!); gather up hiking poles and rain jacket as needed. Meet at 7:30 am ET at Food City in St. Elmo, in the area of the parking lot straight ahead off Tennessee Ave. https://bit.ly/3C3Um9L  Please register with hike leader Ginny Kidd, (423) 304-3799. Carpool cost $0.00.