Wednesday, July 23, 2014, Hike -- Welch Overlook

This is a close, short hike to Welch's Overlook, Joe Holloway Rockhouse, and Yellow Bluff for 4-5 moderate hiking miles. We need to finish hiking by around 10:30 am so we can go to Sparta for a very good $5 lunch at the Sparta Senior Center. Depart Tractor Supply at 7:30 am CT. Gas cost $5.

Saturday, July 26, 2014, Hike -- Twin Arches Loop Hike, Big South Fork, Jamestown, TN

This is a 6 mile moderately strenuous hike due to the flights of stairs and the continual climb from Charit Creek. The Twin Arches are the largest arches in Big South Fork and quite possibly in the Eastern United States. The South Arch is the highest at 100 feet. After visiting the arches, we pass through several huge rock houses along the base of the cliffs as we wind our way to Jake’s Place, the remains of a mid-1800’s house and farm. Then we follow the creek to Charit Creek lodge where we will eat lunch. We ascend 500 ft. in almost a mile as we climb from Charit Creek, past the arches, and to the trailhead. Bring water, snack, lunch, and hiking boots. Depart the parking lot behind Crossville Cracker Barrel at 8:00 am CT (note the change in time from the newsletter).  For information and to register contact Bill Harris at 931-484-9152. Gas cost is $6.

Wednesday, July 30, 2014, Hike -- Foster Falls

Wednesday's hike will be the Foster Falls Climber's loop near Tracy City. There will also be a side trip to nearby abandoned coke ovens. Following lunch we will hike the 2 mi Fiery Gizzard day loop. Total hiking distance will be 6-7 mi. The climbers loop is fairly difficult terrain, but the coke oven and day loop terrain ranges from easy to moderate. Depart Trinity Tabernacle Church at 7:30 am CT. Gas cost is $10.

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* COMPLETED HIKES with PHOTOS (SEE BELOW)    *
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Wednesday, July 16, 2014, Hike -- Rock Island State Park

We will do 3 - 4 short hikes at Rock Island State Park for around 5 miles, and then have lunch at the Rock Island Deli (good inexpensive country food). Depart Tractor Supply at 7:30 am CT. Gas cost $6. Photos: Pat

Wednesday, July 9, 2014, Hike -- Oscar Blevins

Hike through woods to the historic Oscar Blevins farm site, then back to the cars for a short drive to the Sunset Overlook trail for a total of about 6 relatively easy miles. Depart Cracker Barrell at 7:30am CT. Cost $7.00.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014, Walk -- Chattanooga River Walk

This is an 8 mile walk on paved track and sidewalks along the Tennessee River from the Chickamauga Dam to downtown Chattanooga, TN. Jeans and sneakers are good as this is basically a walk. There are birds, greenery, bridges, and historical markers along the way, along with ample drinking fountains and restrooms. An easy walk other than for distance. We will have lunch at our final destination downtown Chattanooga. A shuttle is required. Depart Trinity Tabernacle Church on Highway 127 South at 7:30 am CT. Gas cost $10.