Saturday 12/10/2011 Hike -- Cumberland Mountain Segment of the Cumberland Trail, Cumberland Gap, TN

The Cove Lake Hiking Club Chapter is leading a hike on the CT beginning at the Northern Terminus of the Trail. The hike begins at the historic Iron Furnace Works in the quaint town of Cumberland Gap. The trail ascends steeply 600 feet to the intersection with the Tri-State Marker Trail (TSM). The TSM pavilion marks the spot where Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia meet. The CT begins at the TSM. From the TSM, the trail passes through a Civil War earthworks site and rises and falls with the curves of the ridgeline for two miles out to the historical boundary of the Cumberland Gap National Park. Scenic views abound, eastward into Tennessee and Virginia, and westward into Tennessee and Kentucky. Total distance: 8 miles round trip. The hike is rated moderately difficult due to the elevation change and the distance. Depart from Vanity Fair parking lot at 6:30 AM CT. For more information and to register, contact Cheryl Heckler at thehecklers@charter.net or 931- 456-6437 for additional information. Gas cost is $12. Photos: Cheryl