Friday Program- Mary Priestley- Hike 'Em All

Hike 'Em All, a new trail guide to South Cumberland State Park funded by a
grant from TTA, will debut at our annual meeting. Author Mary Priestley will
talk about the book Friday, after which copies will be available for purchase for $10. All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to support the park.

South Cumberland is the largest wilderness park in the Tennessee State Park system. Approximately 81 miles of white- and blue-blazed trails run through Savage Gulf, Fiery Gizzard, and all of the other parks that make up the South Cumberland. The 14 day hikes described in the guide cover all of the trails in about 120 miles of hiking.

Self Guided Stroll # 2 University Domain, Sewanee

Sewanee:  The University of the South Campus Walk.

The University, founded in 1857 by Episcopal bishops, is a private, liberal arts institution with around 1,400 students in the College of Arts and Sciences and 100 graduate students in the School of Theology.  After the Civil War Oxford University and Cambridge University donated books for Sewanee’s first library and the university started classes in1868.  The magnificent Gothic buildings, reminiscent of Oxford, were constructed between 1875 and 1915, though the most noted building, All Saints Chapel, was not completed until 1957. Breslin Tower, modeled after Magdalen College, Oxford, is 100 ft. high and contains a Seth Thomas clock and Westminster Chimes.  Shapard  Tower houses the Memorial Carillon. The Tower’s vaulted ceilings are modeled after the medieval cathedrals Chartres and Amiens.  These historic buildings, spacious green lawns and beautiful mature trees make a wonderful outing!

Self Guided Stroll #1 Meadow Trail

Meadow Trail, behind South Cumberland State Park Visitor Center.  Monteagle, TN.  2 mile easy loop.  This flat, grassy walk features native Tennessee grasses, wildflowers, understory trees (smooth and winged sumac, dogwood, sourwood etc.) as well as our oaks, hickories, yellow poplars , red maples and Virginia Pine.  (Just to name a few.)  Expect to be wowed by this colorful meadow!

Hike # 4 Cumberland Trail Segment- Saturday, 7:30am

Cumberland Trail-Shackleford Ridge Park to Edwards Point, Signal Mountain; 10.5 miles, moderate. Hike Leaders: CTC General Manager, Tony Hook and Co-Leader Diane Manas.

This hike is an out and back about 10.5 miles in length and rated moderate due to distance and uneven trails. We’ll start from the Shackleford Community playground pavilion and follow a fairly level unused Jeep road for about 1.2 miles to reach Mushroom Rock and the start of this Cumberland Trail Segment.  Mushroom Rock is a spectacular geological formation that stands 30 feet tall and after group photos there we will walk 4 miles through fairly level and extremely pleasant woodlands to the spectacular Edwards Point Overlook.

**Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring your lunch and plenty of water. Also, please bring small bills to pay towards the drivers gas (if you happen to be the driver, riders are expected to cover their share).  Carpool coordinating will take place at 7:30 AM on the DuBose Campus, the drive is one hour each way. ALL TIMES POSTED IN CENTRAL STANDARD TIME

Hike # 12 Grundy Forest Day Loop

Grundy Forest Day Loop, Tracy City. 2 miles, moderate. Hike Leader: Jim Poteet 

This trail into the head of Gizzard Cove meanders through giant hemlocks and offers views of waterfalls, cascades, and the junction of the Big and Little Fiery Gizzard Creeks.

How the creeks got the name Fiery Gizzard is not known for sure. One story says the name originated from an iron-smelting furnace used by the Tennessee Coal & Railroad Company to test the quality of its coke in the 1870's.

Another tale says that Davy Crockett burned his tongue on a hot turkey gizzard while camped along the creek. Still others say the name arose during a peace conference when an Indian chief ripped the gizzard from a recently gutted turkey and threw into the fire to shock the whites that were in attendance.

However the name came about, it is firmly attached to the creeks and the gorge that they flow through, Gizzard Cove.

Registration Update

We have 113 registrants so far!!! Keep 'em coming folks...this will be a great meeting!!!


We still have camping spots, camp cabins, rooms in Claiborne hall, and both rental houses are still available.

BAZZANIA!!!!!!

Our entertainment for the annual meeting will be the group Bazzania.

Bazzania Girls Band  is the creation of botanist Mary Priestley, who is curator of the Herbarium at the University of the South.  Bazzania is a liverwort, a small plant that flourishes in nearby Fiery Gizzard, which is part of the South Cumberland Recreation Area.  Bazzania is the official band of the Friends of South Cumberland, and we love to play at their annual picnic.

The band is made up of: Mary (accordion); April Minkler (bass guitar), Jim Ann Howard (guitar); Suzanne Cahoon (guitar), Betty Carpenter (harmonica & autoharp); Ann Seiters (keyboard); and me (banjo & tenor guitar).  Everyone sings.  Garry Collins is our sound man.  Our repertoire is eclectic, and we perform some original songs.

http://www.bazzania.com/

Auction Item- Hound Huts

ABO Gear Outback Hound Portable Hut for Dogs

The Outback Hound Portable Hut is the perfect solution to protect your dog from the rain and keeps dog off the ground, away from insects. It's ideal for any surface, lawn, deck or patio - a must have for spring and summer. Rugged and durable house is constructed from 600 denier canvas. Fast and easy set up - no tools needed. The cover secures to frame with velcro closures and has SPF 50 protection. Ideal for traveling the portable home folds into carry bag and it is lightweight. Includes securable padded mattress for extra comfort. The Hut is a must have for any backyard or patio. There are TWO Hound Huts for auction, one in medium size and one in large size.

Medium
25" L X 23" W X 24" H
For Dogs up to 35 lbs.

Large
34" L X 28" W X 32" H
For Dogs up to 70 lbs.

Auction Item- Two night stay at vacation home in Sewanee, TN

For the auction at this year’s TTA Annual Meeting, we are offering a 2-night stay at Medford House in Sewanee.  This is a 4-bedroom, 3 ½ bath house that sleeps 8.  It is located near the University of the South and Saint Andrews Sewanee School.  The property is also adjacent to the Mountain Goat Trail and the Perimeter Trail.  Details may be seen at http://www.vrbo.com/, listing #313313.

Auction Item- Osprey Viper Hydration Pack

Ospry Viper 4 Hydration pack
Color:  Supernova

Use for:  Mountain Biking, Trail Running, Day Hiking

The lightest of the ViperT series, this pack provides a 2 liter Hydraform reservoir, a heat embossed fabric pocket for carrying small items and a bungee lacing system on the front panel for securing an extra layer of clothing.

Registration Update: Bishop's Hall SOLD OUT!

As of today we have 80 paid registrations! Bishop's Hall (motel style) is sold out! There are still single and double occupancy rooms available in Claiborne Hall (dorm style). As well as space in the Camp Cabins (barracks style) and plenty of tent camping.

 Be sure you check out the Lobby terrace and Claibprne Hall's second floor porch while at DuBose! 

Auction Item

Here are two great auction items. If you enjoy hand-made items you will want to pay special attention to these two, check out the cool branch perch on the front! The two bird houses were made by Marget and J.W. Massa of Cookeville. One is with the TTA logo the other is Virgin Falls & Hiker.

Auction Item- North Face Spire, Women's backpack

The North Face Spire 33 Women's Backpack is an all-season, all-sport pack you'll use every weekend of the year. Mid-sized for the right one-day balance of manageability and capacity, the Spire is a top-loader to maximize its useable space, and optionally overload into the collar for extra room. Up top, the Spire sports a cranial cavity to minimize head-bonking and load-lifter straps to keep the straps from digging into your shoulders when your load is hefty. The Spire features double daisy chains for climbing hardwear in every season, adjustable ski slots for winter, and a channeled back panel for summer comfort. The handy gear loops on the waist belt keep tools ready for quick-draw, pun intended. If you're tackling the mountains, no matter the season, you'll want The North Face Spire on your back.

Material: 210D x 330D Cordura, 420D nylon, Volume: [standard] 2300cu in (38L); [extended] 2600cu in (43L), Suspension: MGF, Back Panel: Padded, closed cell foam, Hydration Compatible: Yes, Torso Adjustment: No, Detachable Pack: No, Sleeping Bag Compartment: No, Rain Cover: No, Access Types: Top, Gear Loops: Yes, External Pockets: 2 side, 1 pick, Snowboard Carry: No, Ski Carry: Yes,  Recommended Use: All-season alpine sports, Weight: 3lb 7oz (1560g), Warranty: Lifetime

Hike Description: Saturday, Cloudland Canyon Waterfalls, 7 miles, Strenuous, Joan Hartsvigsen leads

Cloudland Canyon State Park Waterfalls and Sitton Gulch Trail. 

Rising Fawn, Georgia.  Hike Leader: Joan Hartvigsen, 7 miles strenuous. This  Georgia park is located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. The park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by combined waters of Bear and Daniels Creeks. The Waterfalls Trail  consists of gravel and 1,200 stair steps. Both waterfalls cascade off of sheer faces at 60 and 90 feet, and are among the most beautiful in the state. The Sitton Gulch Trail  follows Daniel Creek through open, green hemlock groves and overlooks numerous small waterfalls cascading through limestone crevices. The autumn color is magnificent. 

Hike Description- Saturday, Stone Door, 9 miles, Strenuous, Ron Dunn leads

Stone Door, Big Creek Gulf, Laurel Trails.  9 miles strenuous.  Very rocky.  Beersheba  Springs, TN.  Hike Leader Ron Dunn

After enjoying the spectacular overlooks at the Great Stone Door we will descend through the Stone Door down to Big Creek Gulf.  The trail descends steeply  down the rocky slope then parallels Big Creek upstream, crossing rocks most of the time.  We have the option of visiting Ranger Creek Falls, which spills over a 20 ft. ledge  and disappears into a sink.  Such vanishing falls are called terminal falls.  Back on the main trail  we’ll have the option of  visiting the sinks of  Big Creek.  Here the creek flows into a deep green pool and disappears.  The geology  in Big Creek Gulf is amazing.  (Joan thought she was on another planet.)  After wandering four miles through fantastic rock formations we climb steeply up out of Big Creek Gulf and into the Alum Gap Campground area.  The three mile easy, flat Laurel Trail will take us back.  

New Silent Auction Item!

Academy Broadway 2 person Tent

This black and yellow dome tent includes the tent, rain fly, shock cord poles, stakes and a carrying bag. This very gently used tent would make a great addition to your gear collection! It weighs in at around 4 pounds so it would be an awesome car camping tent or even a good tent if you are wanting to try backpacking and don't want to make a huge investment before you are sure you'll enjoy it. This tent would be great to have around for your kids or grandkids to camp out in the back yard or to have on hand in case you need an extra for car camping.

Alternative Housing in Sewanee: Brand New Luxury Home Near University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee

Highland Rim Chapter members Bill Kammerer and Marcia Medford own a vacation rental home in Sewanee (only a few minutes to DuBose Center). They are offering the house for rent during our Annual meeting with ALL proceeds going to the Cumberland Trail Conference!! What a fantastic opportunity to stay in a mountain home AND help the Cumberland Trail and Tennessee Trails.

Please contact Marcia Medford at marciamedford@yahoo.com for any questions and pricing information.  Check out all the details here: http://www.vbro.com/  listing #313313

Hike Preview-Grundy Forest Day Loop, 2 miles moderate. Friday led by Marietta Poteet and Saturday led by Jim Poteet

This trail into the head of Gizzard Cove meanders through giant hemlocks and offers views of waterfalls, cascades, and the junction of the Big and Little Fiery Gizzard Creeks.

How the creeks got the name Fiery Gizzard is not known for sure. One story says the name originated from an iron-smelting furnace used by the Tennessee Coal & Railroad Company to test the quality of its coke in the 1870's.

Another tale says that Davy Crockett burned his tongue on a hot turkey gizzard while camped along the creek. Still others say the name arose during a peace conference when an Indian chief ripped the gizzard from a recently gutted turkey and threw into the fire to shock the whites that were in attendance.
However the name came about, it is firmly attached to the creeks and the gorge that they flow through, Gizzard Cove.

Here is an interesting blog entry about one person's hike along the trail. http://wildrlog.com/2007/04/22/grundy-forest-day-loop

HOUSING UPDATE

Registration Update

As of 8/1/11 we have about 40 paid registrants. Please note the following regarding availability:

Bishop's Hall--We are sold out of the single queen bed rooms. We have about 7 two-bed rooms (double beds) available. If you are paying for a private room be sure you choose Single Occupancy $60 per night. If you want to share a room choose Double Occupancy at $42 per night per person and be sure you list who you are sharing a room with.

Claiborne Hall: There are 2 single rooms (1 double bed) available and plenty of double occupancy (2 Twin Bed) rooms available.

The RV site is SOLD OUT. There is still plenty of room available in the bunk-style camp cabins and plenty of tent camping sites!

If you have been putting off registering, DON'T WAIT. Rooms are filling quickly.

Hike Preview-Stone Door/Big Creek Rim/Laurel Falls. Saturday, 7 miles moderate, Hike Leader Tony Jones

The Great Stone Door is located in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area near Beersheba Springs, Tennessee. This beautiful ledge overlooking the Savage Gulf is spectacular. The fall colors should be fantastic and views unbelievable.

We will begin our hike behind the Stone Door Ranger station where we will take the short walk to Laurel Falls we will then walk the Stone Door Trail to the Great Door itself. There will be ample opportunity for pictures both on top and if you choose, at the bottom of the Door. The mileage to this point is about 1.5 miles including Laurel Falls.

From the Stone Door we will walk the Big Creek Rim trail and follow the mainly flat trail along the rim's edge to the Alum Campsite about 4 miles away. Here we will relax and have our lunch and there will be a primitive outhouse for those so inclined.

The trail junctions at the campsite and goes down to the Big Creek Gulf Trail with a connector to Greeter Falls. It also continues straight ahead on the Laurel Trail. The Laurel Trail is the last section of our hike. The Laurel Trail, again mainly flat will take us about 2 miles back to the parking lot. This will be a basically easy walking hike, but it is rated moderate due to length and the rugged terrain at the Great Stone Door.

Hike Preview- Shakerag Hollow, Friday, 3 miles moderate, Hike Leader Glen Rognstad

Shakerag Hollow Trail lies within the Domain of the University of the South at Sewanee.

This will be a 3 mile out and back hike that is rated moderate due to a steep 300 ft. elevation change. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the trail back in the 30's and some of the old growth forest remains to this day. The trail is a popular hike for wildflower enthusiasts in the spring.

Find out more about University of the South at http://www.sewanee.edu/  more on the entire Perimeter Trail at http://www.sewanee.edu/sop/perimetertrail.htm

or http://www.sewanee.edu/sop/sewanee_hikes.pdf

Here is an interesting Youtube video of former State Naturalist Mack Prichard in Shakerag Hollow, it's about 10 minutes.
http://youtu.be/hKE3Z8rKYKY

Silent Auction items are beginning to be donated!

Haunted Hikes, Spine Tingling Tales and Trails from North America's National Parks

Reviews

"Andrea Lankford raises the hair on your neck in this book of spooky spots and ghostly grottoes."  —National Geographic Traveler

"I'll never look at the Grand Canyon the same way again. From now on, I'm sleeping with the lights on!"  —Chuck Sypher, Grand Canyon park ranger

Description

Combining the popularity of ghost stories with the traditional aspects of a park trail guide, these creepy hikes lead courageous climbers and armchair adventurers through some of the scariest, most mysterious places in North America. Thoroughly investigated, yet often tongue-in-cheek, these tales behind the trails include the chupacabra that roams the swamps inside the Big Thicket National Preserve, the execution-style shooting of two General Motors executives at Crater Lake, and the pair of disembodied legs that have been seen running around inside the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center. A fright factor rating is listed for each hike, along with information on trailhead access, maps, and hike difficulty levels. From the wheelchair accessible to multi-day treks into the wilderness, the included trails cover a wide range of hiking abilities and even feature a haunted Louisiana bayou best reached by canoe or kayak.

2011 Registration is going well...



Bishop's Hall- Double Room


We are beginning to receive your registration forms and as of now we have sold out of the few single rooms that were in Bishop's Hall. There are still plenty of double rooms available in Bishop's, as well as dorm-style rooms in Claiborne Hall, tent camping, and bunk house style accomodations.

Camp Cabin

Claiborne Hall

Tent Camping Area

Annual Meeting Dates and Location set

Claiborne Hall

Our annual meeting will be held at the DuBose Conference Center in Monteagle, TN over the last weekend in October 2011.

View of Courtyard

Built in 1872, DuBose Center is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is set on 65 acres of open fields and mountian woodlands. Located just minutes from South Cumberland State Recreational Area and University of the South campus we will have plenty of beautiful hiking and sightseeing opportunities.

You can learn more about the Center at their website, http://www.duboseconf.org/home