Leader: Vic Hasler, 423-239-0388
Rating: Medium 5-mile round-trip hike with 1400’ climb
This hike is rescheduled from June 8th. Predicted heavy thunderstorms for June 8th materialized by afternoon. Hiking on a wet trail is not good due to the risk of slips and falls for individuals – and significant erosion for the tread. Let’s hope for better weather in August.
The historic firetower was restored last year, with partial funding from the TN A.T. license plate program, allowing continued enjoyment of the great views. This hike travels the Appalachian Trail up and back from Tanyard Gap with a fair amount of elevation gain.
Let’s leave from Colonial Heights (now Ingles parking area) at 8 am for the roughly 1½ hour drive towards Hot Springs. Please let the hike leader know of your interest as stops in Greeneville or Johnson City to carpool can determine our route. Otherwise meet in the parking area at Tanyard Gap (US25/70 overpass) by 9:30 am. We’ll hike north-bound on the Appalachian Trail at a steady pace until the firetower is reached. Sturdy footwear and hiking poles are recommended. Pack a lunch/snack plus plenty of water to stay hydrated. Plan to be back at the vehicles before the afternoon heat arrives, thus back home by mid-to-late afternoon (possible an ice cream stop). For further information and to let us know of your interest, please call/e-mail the hike leader.