Signal Mountain: Rainbow Lake and Beyond

Saturday, December 14 — Signal Mountain trails, up to three options: (1) long hike of 8-10 miles, moderate; (2) medium hike of around 4-5 miles, easy/moderate; (3) short 2.2-mile hike, 348’ el. gain, easy. A short shuttle is required for the medium hike. We will all start at the Rainbow Lake trailhead on Ohio Avenue and hike to Rainbow Lake and Bee Branch Loop Trail. Those wanting the short 2.2-mile hike can stay on Bee Branch Loop, circling back to Rainbow Lake and up to the Ohio Ave parking lot. The rest of the hikers will branch off Bee Branch Trail onto Orange Trail, followed by Orange-Yellow Trail heading north toward Edwards Point Road. A shuttle car can be parked on this road for medium hikers. Long hikers will continue onto the Yellow Trail and meander back via several trails to Rainbow Lake and the Ohio St. parking lot. 

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; use insect repellent, hiking poles, sunscreen, and rain jacket as needed.

Parking is limited at the trailhead, so please meet at 8:30 am ET for carpooling at Food City on Signal Mountain Road, in the near back corner of the parking lot. https://bit.ly/3pk0suY  Register with the hike leader (required for all Scenic City hikes): Betsy Darken, (423) 718-2060. Carpool: $2.00.