Laurel-Snow: Laurel Falls & Natural Bridge

Saturday, March 16 — Laurel Snow SNA. Joint hike with the Chattanooga Hiking Club (CHC), two options. LONGER: Laurel Falls and a natural bridge, about 9 miles and 1200’ el. gain, out-and-back, moderate/strenuous. SHORTER: Laurel Falls, 4.7 miles, 708’ el. gain, out-and-back, moderate. We will all start out on the mostly flat trail along Richland Creek, which should be quite frisky this time of year, and we’ll pass many signs of the old coal-mining operation along this creek. The trail up to Laurel Falls is via switchbacks. If we’re lucky, this 80-foot falls will be at full blast—quite a sight! Hikers doing the shorter hike will head back at this point, while long hikers will head uphill and then through a steep and narrow passage to the top of the plateau. We’ll cross Laurel Creek before it’s even thinking about jumping off the cliff, but it will probably not be shallow, so bring water shoes. Next, we stroll to Laurel Point for a fine view, then take the old road leading out from this point, find a secret trail, and end up at an impressive natural bridge. Wow! Steve Boone of CHC and Betsy Darken of SC and CHC will be our co-leaders. Check the weather forecast and choose appropriate layers; bring water shoes for crossing Laurel Creek, especially since the water will very likely be high at this time of year; wear hiking shoes or boots; bring snacks and lunch along with more water than you think you need; and gather up hiking poles, rain jacket, sunscreen, and insect repellent as needed. Do not forget your water shoes. For carpooling/caravanning, meet at 8:30 am ET at the Durham Street parking lot (ball fields) off Dayton Pike in Soddy-Daisy. https://bit.ly/3Qjdc0S Please register with Betsy Darken, (423) 718-2060. Carpool cost: $2.00.