The Outdoor Foundation, which recently released its 2010 Outdoor Recreation Participation Topline Report, is reporting that Americans are spending more time outside. The report shows a 3.3% increase in what they call “core” outdoor activities (from 97.5 million to 100.7 million Americans ages 6 and above) during 2009.
The report shows participation increases in skiing, road cycling and camping, as well as a significant increase in snowshoeing, which reported a 17.4% increase over the prior year.
The report also shows that the economy has had a significant impact on how Americans are recreating. Americans are spending significantly less money on outdoor equipment as well as travel to participate in outdoor activities.
American’s surveyed indicated they preferred activities that could be “done in a day” based on costs and busy schedules; which illustrates how the economy created some vulnerability in the outdoor sports industry, as a whole, according to the study.
Christine Fanning, Executive Director of Outdoor Foundation says, “We see the economy driving people back to nature. This has tremendous implications for health and wellness issues surrounding the sharp increases in childhood obesity,” adding that, “Outdoor recreation is finally being recognized as part of the solution. Our position is that nature should be the first prescription.”
Here are a few key findings:
* Hiking saw a only slight increase of 0.2% versus the prior year, however, over a nine year period, participation in hiking has increased by 8.4%.
* After increasing by 18.5% in 2008, backpacking declined by 2.8% in the most recent year.
* Climbing (traditional, ice, mountaineering) saw a huge decline of 19.8% in 2009.
* After reporting a small decline in 2008, road cycling saw a 5.3% increase in 2009.
* The most popular sport according to overall numbers is by far walking, followed by running/jogging, then fishing. Road cycling was the 4th most popular sport, with camping ranking 5th, and hiking 6th.
* Nearly 28% of all Americans frequently participate in high calorie activities.
You can read the full report by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Are Mt. Everest ‘Firsts’ Getting Out of Control?
As many of you are already aware, on May 22nd, 13-year-old Jordan Romero successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest, and in the process, became the youngest person to reach the top of the world.
Alan Arnette, an avid climber who has summited Mt. Everest on three occasions himself, publishes one of the best climbing/mountaineering websites on the internet. Arnette recently weighed in with his thoughts on Jordan and what he has just accomplished. It's an excellent article that provides some interesting perspectives on the story and the controversy surrounding Jordan due to his age.
Last year a 50-strong group of amateurs climbed to the 16,945-foot Gorak Shep plateau (just above the Everest Base Camp), in order to set the world record for the highest cricket match.
In a related story, Wend Magazine recently published an interesting article that asks the question:
Are Mount Everest ‘Firsts’ Getting Out of Control?
Based on the italicised quote above you can get a flavor for some of the ridiculous "Firsts" that are being attempted on the roof of the world in recent years. You can check this article out by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Alan Arnette, an avid climber who has summited Mt. Everest on three occasions himself, publishes one of the best climbing/mountaineering websites on the internet. Arnette recently weighed in with his thoughts on Jordan and what he has just accomplished. It's an excellent article that provides some interesting perspectives on the story and the controversy surrounding Jordan due to his age.
Last year a 50-strong group of amateurs climbed to the 16,945-foot Gorak Shep plateau (just above the Everest Base Camp), in order to set the world record for the highest cricket match.
In a related story, Wend Magazine recently published an interesting article that asks the question:
Are Mount Everest ‘Firsts’ Getting Out of Control?
Based on the italicised quote above you can get a flavor for some of the ridiculous "Firsts" that are being attempted on the roof of the world in recent years. You can check this article out by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
31 New National Recreation Trails Designated
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced the designation of 31 trails in 15 states as National Recreation Trails, adding more than 716 miles of trails to the National Trails System.
"From coast to coast, the National Trails System helps connect American families with the wonders of the great outdoors," said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. "These new National Recreation Trails, built through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, will create new opportunities for fitness and stewardship while creating a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren."
Each year nominations for designation of new National Recreation Trails may be submitted. The NRT Program recognizes trails that provide opportunities for all Americans to enjoy the out-of-doors and improve the quality of life of our communities. The trails which are designated are announced in the first week of June as part of National Trails Day events.
With nine trails added to the National Trails System, the state of Alabama scored the highest number of newly designated National Recreation Trails.
The Highlands Plateau Greenway was the only trail to be designated in the Great Smoky Mountains region. The Highlands Plateau Greenway is located roughly 35 miles south of Cherokee in Highlands, North Carolina, the highest incorporated town east of the Mississippi. The 5-mile network of continuous walking trails connects natural areas and historic sites for educational and recreational opportunities. Straddling the Eastern Continental Divide in a temperate rainforest, the area boasts the highest floral and faunal diversity in North America. Because of this unique environment, landscaping along the trail with plants native to the southern mountains is a major focus.
You can find the complete list of newly designated National Recreation Trails by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
"From coast to coast, the National Trails System helps connect American families with the wonders of the great outdoors," said Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar. "These new National Recreation Trails, built through partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, will create new opportunities for fitness and stewardship while creating a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren."
Each year nominations for designation of new National Recreation Trails may be submitted. The NRT Program recognizes trails that provide opportunities for all Americans to enjoy the out-of-doors and improve the quality of life of our communities. The trails which are designated are announced in the first week of June as part of National Trails Day events.
With nine trails added to the National Trails System, the state of Alabama scored the highest number of newly designated National Recreation Trails.
The Highlands Plateau Greenway was the only trail to be designated in the Great Smoky Mountains region. The Highlands Plateau Greenway is located roughly 35 miles south of Cherokee in Highlands, North Carolina, the highest incorporated town east of the Mississippi. The 5-mile network of continuous walking trails connects natural areas and historic sites for educational and recreational opportunities. Straddling the Eastern Continental Divide in a temperate rainforest, the area boasts the highest floral and faunal diversity in North America. Because of this unique environment, landscaping along the trail with plants native to the southern mountains is a major focus.
You can find the complete list of newly designated National Recreation Trails by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Volunteers Needed at Clingmans Dome
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is recruiting volunteers to help staff a new visitor contact station at Clingmans Dome when it opens on Saturday, June 19.
The building that served as a comfort station, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is being renovated and converted into a seasonal information center that will also include a bookstore/sales area managed by the Great Smoky Mountains Association.
The center sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet and will be a point source of information on the national park, in general, and on this high elevation spruce-fir ecosystem in particular.
Volunteers are needed to assist in educating visitors about the Park and providing recreational and trip planning information and directions to other destinations.
“In the past, visitors to this popular destination did not have a chance to obtain information on their high elevation visit or have questions answered, including the most asked, ‘What caused the trees to die?’” said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. “Now with the help of volunteers staffing the center, visitors can inquire and learn about the stands of dead trees caused by the nonnative insect, the balsam woolly adelgid.”
Many other helpful services will be available, including the ability to purchase guides and maps, outdoor apparel, and other products sold by the Great Smoky Mountains Association. “The Association is a significant partner with the Park and is involved in a number of projects to improve visitors’ experience. The funding for the renovations to the building, interpretive exhibit material, and staffing is coming from the Association through its revenue raised from merchandise sales and paid memberships,” said Ditmanson.
Volunteers will be working alongside Association employees and each volunteer is asked to work at least one four-hour shift per week. The hours will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Interested persons will be provided orientation and training before beginning at the contact station. The period that volunteers will be needed is during the peak season, June through October.
To sign up for this volunteer work or for more information, contact Florie Takaki at 828-497-1906 or by email, Wednesdays through Fridays.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The building that served as a comfort station, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is being renovated and converted into a seasonal information center that will also include a bookstore/sales area managed by the Great Smoky Mountains Association.
The center sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet and will be a point source of information on the national park, in general, and on this high elevation spruce-fir ecosystem in particular.
Volunteers are needed to assist in educating visitors about the Park and providing recreational and trip planning information and directions to other destinations.
“In the past, visitors to this popular destination did not have a chance to obtain information on their high elevation visit or have questions answered, including the most asked, ‘What caused the trees to die?’” said Park Superintendent Dale Ditmanson. “Now with the help of volunteers staffing the center, visitors can inquire and learn about the stands of dead trees caused by the nonnative insect, the balsam woolly adelgid.”
Many other helpful services will be available, including the ability to purchase guides and maps, outdoor apparel, and other products sold by the Great Smoky Mountains Association. “The Association is a significant partner with the Park and is involved in a number of projects to improve visitors’ experience. The funding for the renovations to the building, interpretive exhibit material, and staffing is coming from the Association through its revenue raised from merchandise sales and paid memberships,” said Ditmanson.
Volunteers will be working alongside Association employees and each volunteer is asked to work at least one four-hour shift per week. The hours will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Interested persons will be provided orientation and training before beginning at the contact station. The period that volunteers will be needed is during the peak season, June through October.
To sign up for this volunteer work or for more information, contact Florie Takaki at 828-497-1906 or by email, Wednesdays through Fridays.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Off-roaders sue US Forest Service over Tellico trail closure
Off-road vehicle advocates are suing the U.S. Forest Service over the agency's plans to close the popular Upper Tellico trail area in the Nantahala National Forest.
The move is the latest development in a four-year legal battle between four-wheel drive enthusiasts, environmentalists and the government over use of the area.
Tellico had attracted off-road enthusiasts from across the county with its nearly 40 miles of trails. The Forest Service last year said it would close the area after finding that off-road driving caused sedimentation that had damaged water quality in creeks and streams.
The lawsuit filed last week by the Southern Four-Wheel Drive Association and two other advocacy groups claims the agency broke the law when it started decommissioning trails without telling the public about its plans.
“The entire premise behind this closure – that water quality is uniquely flawed in the Tellico River – is simply untrue,” Roger Theurer, president of Southern Four Wheel Drive Association, said in a written statement. “We hope through this suit for an opportunity to present the full story.”
Environmentalists vow to fight the lawsuit.
I have no idea what's transpired with the water quality in the creeks and streams in question, or whether off-roaders are responsible or not. I should also say that I've never been on an off-road vehicle, nor do I know anyone that takes part in this acitvity. However, I do firmly believe that we hikers do not have sole rights to all public lands. National Forest lands are owned by all Americans, and therefore should be enjoyed through a variety of responsible outdoor pursuits.
Provided that off-roaders are respecting the forests, trails and streams, and are acting in a responsible manner, they should have the right to enjoy certain public lands set aside for their particular enjoyments.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The move is the latest development in a four-year legal battle between four-wheel drive enthusiasts, environmentalists and the government over use of the area.
Tellico had attracted off-road enthusiasts from across the county with its nearly 40 miles of trails. The Forest Service last year said it would close the area after finding that off-road driving caused sedimentation that had damaged water quality in creeks and streams.
The lawsuit filed last week by the Southern Four-Wheel Drive Association and two other advocacy groups claims the agency broke the law when it started decommissioning trails without telling the public about its plans.
“The entire premise behind this closure – that water quality is uniquely flawed in the Tellico River – is simply untrue,” Roger Theurer, president of Southern Four Wheel Drive Association, said in a written statement. “We hope through this suit for an opportunity to present the full story.”
Environmentalists vow to fight the lawsuit.
I have no idea what's transpired with the water quality in the creeks and streams in question, or whether off-roaders are responsible or not. I should also say that I've never been on an off-road vehicle, nor do I know anyone that takes part in this acitvity. However, I do firmly believe that we hikers do not have sole rights to all public lands. National Forest lands are owned by all Americans, and therefore should be enjoyed through a variety of responsible outdoor pursuits.
Provided that off-roaders are respecting the forests, trails and streams, and are acting in a responsible manner, they should have the right to enjoy certain public lands set aside for their particular enjoyments.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Whitney State Forest Closing Part 2
A little better clarification as to exactly what is going on. I misspoke when I said the clearcut area would be planted in Loblolly, it will be planted in Shortleaf Pine which is a slower grower but more valuable wood and will add more diversity to the forest. Here is a short excerpt from the state forest manager for the Whitney:
Timber harvesting is scheduled to begin on or around June 2 in two stands of the forest. The stands to be cut are identified on the map as “LP31 A” and “LP31 B”. They are colored dark green. Both stands are comprised primarily of Loblolly pine planted 31 years ago. Prior to planting, these areas were fields.
Area “LP31 A” will be clearcut, treated to control invasives, possibly prescribed burned, and replanted with Shortleaf pine.
Area “LP31 B” will be thinned to improve the growth rate, vigor, and health of the remaining trees. Trees harvested in this thinning were marked by Department of Forestry personnel. Each tree was selected for harvest for one of two reasons. Either it has a characteristic that makes it unlikely to develop into a more valuable tree, or while nothing in particular is wrong with the tree marked for harvest, another tree adjacent to it exhibits better characteristics. The logger will take care to minimize damage to the trees remaining in the stand after the harvest.
The Whitney State Forest is part of the State Forest system of Virginia and managed by the Virginia Department of Forestry. The Virginia Department of Forestry is a state agency and receives its funding from tax dollars for the majority of it’s programs and operations. However, the State Forest system is a portion of the agency that receives no funding whatsoever from tax dollars. All of the money for the State Forest system is generated from the state forests through timber sales, use permits, and firewood sales. 25% of the money generated a state forest is given to the county that forest is located in. The remaining 75% pays for reforestation, maintenance, vehicles, equipment, and salaries of state forest personnel. Timber was last harvested from the property in 1960 before it was donated to the Commonwealth in 1972.
Area “LP31 A” will be clearcut, treated to control invasives, possibly prescribed burned, and replanted with Shortleaf pine.
Area “LP31 B” will be thinned to improve the growth rate, vigor, and health of the remaining trees. Trees harvested in this thinning were marked by Department of Forestry personnel. Each tree was selected for harvest for one of two reasons. Either it has a characteristic that makes it unlikely to develop into a more valuable tree, or while nothing in particular is wrong with the tree marked for harvest, another tree adjacent to it exhibits better characteristics. The logger will take care to minimize damage to the trees remaining in the stand after the harvest.
The Whitney State Forest is part of the State Forest system of Virginia and managed by the Virginia Department of Forestry. The Virginia Department of Forestry is a state agency and receives its funding from tax dollars for the majority of it’s programs and operations. However, the State Forest system is a portion of the agency that receives no funding whatsoever from tax dollars. All of the money for the State Forest system is generated from the state forests through timber sales, use permits, and firewood sales. 25% of the money generated a state forest is given to the county that forest is located in. The remaining 75% pays for reforestation, maintenance, vehicles, equipment, and salaries of state forest personnel. Timber was last harvested from the property in 1960 before it was donated to the Commonwealth in 1972.
Wilderness First Aid Courses at REI Stores
Last week REI announced that they will be offering Wilderness First Aid courses at their stores across the country. The courses are made possible through a collaboration with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) and its Wilderness Medicine Institute (WMI), a nonprofit organization that has defined the standards of wilderness medicine training for nearly two decades. The Wilderness First Aid courses will be led by WMI instructors and REI Outdoor School instructors that have been qualified by WMI.
Beginning in June, the two-day Wilderness First Aid courses (see outline) will teach participants the wilderness medicine skills needed to recreate with confidence in the backcountry. Courses include basics from patient assessment to traumatic, medical and environmental emergencies.
Participants will also learn and practice how to respond to a wide variety of incidents to help prepare them to act in case of an accident outdoors. Wilderness First Aid courses are $200 for REI members and $220 for non-members, and include books for each participant.
Through both classroom presentations and hands-on practice scenarios, participants will learn:
• How to prepare for and administer first aid in a wilderness context
• The Patient Assessment System which includes patient exams, vital signs, history and documentation
• How to handle common medical issues such as hypothermia and athletic injuries
• How to address major trauma such as spinal cord and head injuries, and shock and wound management
For more information on locations and schedules, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Beginning in June, the two-day Wilderness First Aid courses (see outline) will teach participants the wilderness medicine skills needed to recreate with confidence in the backcountry. Courses include basics from patient assessment to traumatic, medical and environmental emergencies.
Participants will also learn and practice how to respond to a wide variety of incidents to help prepare them to act in case of an accident outdoors. Wilderness First Aid courses are $200 for REI members and $220 for non-members, and include books for each participant.
Through both classroom presentations and hands-on practice scenarios, participants will learn:
• How to prepare for and administer first aid in a wilderness context
• The Patient Assessment System which includes patient exams, vital signs, history and documentation
• How to handle common medical issues such as hypothermia and athletic injuries
• How to address major trauma such as spinal cord and head injuries, and shock and wound management
For more information on locations and schedules, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Whitney State Forest Closing
The Whitney State Forest will be closing on June 1st due to some much needed timber harvesting. Due to the forest's small size and location of the harvesting, the state forest manager feels it is necessary to close the forest to protect the public and the loggers.
I know this is frustrating for users of this forest but please keep a few things in mind. First, it really is for your safety. Logging is the most dangerous job in the U.S. and accidents frequently happen. Broken branches can fall from the top of trees at any time. Logging equipment is large and loud, operators have difficulty seeing people walking around and will not hear you either. Another reason we are closing the forest is to help protect the loggers. Imagine how you would feel if you were responsible for the injury of another (unintentionally). Also profit margins in logging depends on the speed that the logger can get the trees on the ground, on the truck, and to the mill. If the logger has to worry about forest users or a truck gets blocked by a users vehicle then the logger loses money.
So why is this harvesting necessary? Well one of the stands of Loblolly needs to be thinned to increase the productivity of the trees and help to keep them insect and disease free. Another stand of Loblolly pine has reached maturity and will be harvested and then replanted with Loblolly pine seedlings next year. Will this affect the aesthetics of the forest? Well, yes. I will not lie and say that logging is pretty but it is necessary. Also keep in mind that the state forests are self sufficient and do not use taxpayer dollars to function. We must cut timber to afford to keep our forests open.
So if you frequent the Whitney State Forest, please bear with us during this closure. The faster the loggers get done, the faster we can reopen the forest. If you have any questions about the closure please don't hesitate to leave a comment for me or contact our Warrenton office at 540-347-6359.
I know this is frustrating for users of this forest but please keep a few things in mind. First, it really is for your safety. Logging is the most dangerous job in the U.S. and accidents frequently happen. Broken branches can fall from the top of trees at any time. Logging equipment is large and loud, operators have difficulty seeing people walking around and will not hear you either. Another reason we are closing the forest is to help protect the loggers. Imagine how you would feel if you were responsible for the injury of another (unintentionally). Also profit margins in logging depends on the speed that the logger can get the trees on the ground, on the truck, and to the mill. If the logger has to worry about forest users or a truck gets blocked by a users vehicle then the logger loses money.
So why is this harvesting necessary? Well one of the stands of Loblolly needs to be thinned to increase the productivity of the trees and help to keep them insect and disease free. Another stand of Loblolly pine has reached maturity and will be harvested and then replanted with Loblolly pine seedlings next year. Will this affect the aesthetics of the forest? Well, yes. I will not lie and say that logging is pretty but it is necessary. Also keep in mind that the state forests are self sufficient and do not use taxpayer dollars to function. We must cut timber to afford to keep our forests open.
So if you frequent the Whitney State Forest, please bear with us during this closure. The faster the loggers get done, the faster we can reopen the forest. If you have any questions about the closure please don't hesitate to leave a comment for me or contact our Warrenton office at 540-347-6359.
Channel Islands N.P. to broadcast Eagle Banding Live Today
The public will get an opportunity to view a live broadcast of biologists banding two bald eagle chicks on Santa Cruz Island today. The biologists will band the chicks, attach wing tags, radio and satellite transmitters, and conduct health checks.
The event will take place today from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST (11 a.m. to noon Pacific time).
The two bald eagle chicks are currently close to fledging. These birds will join a population of over 30 bald eagles that now reside on the northern Channel Islands. This bald eagle nest is on The Nature Conservancy’s property on Santa Cruz Island, the largest in the chain of eight Channel Islands.
Please click here for more information and to access the live webcam.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The event will take place today from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST (11 a.m. to noon Pacific time).The two bald eagle chicks are currently close to fledging. These birds will join a population of over 30 bald eagles that now reside on the northern Channel Islands. This bald eagle nest is on The Nature Conservancy’s property on Santa Cruz Island, the largest in the chain of eight Channel Islands.
Please click here for more information and to access the live webcam.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
More National Trails Day Events
A couple of weeks ago I posted some local/regional events for the upcoming National Trails Day. Since then I've come across a few others that you might be intrested in.
National Trails Day is the American Hiking Society's signature trail awareness program, and it will take place on June 5th this year.
* The Great Smoky Mountains will be putting volunteers to work on two trail locations from 9 a.m. and 3 p.m: the Grassy Branch Trail near Cherokee and the Crooked Arm Ridge Trail in Cades Cove. Equipment, including work gloves, will be provided.
* Shenandoah National Park will offer a variety of guided hikes as well as some trail skill seminars for hikers and backpackers.
* The Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen will be doing trail maintenance work on the Mill Branch and the Iron Gap trails in the Cherokee National Forest.
* The SORBA Chattanooga chapter is sponsoring a work/play weekend at Big South Fork Recreation Area.
* The Cumberland Trail Conference will sponser two hikes along the Cumberland Trail near Soddy Daisy.
* Construction of a missing link of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail around Waterrock Knob on the Blue Ridge Parkway is being directed by the Carolina Mountain Club. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Fork Ridge Overlook at milepost 229. 828.658.1489 or ccf108@gmail.com.
• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a four-mile, moderate to strenuous work hike with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Konnarock trail crew in the vicinity of Tellico Gap. Meet at Westgate Plaza in Franklin (opposite Burger King) at 8 a.m. 828.369.1983.
Here are a few other events I mentioned in my previous post:
* The Smoky Mountain Hiking Club will utilize the day as a trail repair and construction event. They will meet in Gatlinburg at 7:30 a.m. that morning.
* The Carolina Mountain Club will host a couple of hikes, including the Lakeshore Loop near Fontana Lake in the southern Smoky Mountains.
* Chimney Rock State Park will be offering free guided hikes on the hour from 11am to 3pm with park education staff and rangers who will discuss the plants and wildlife at the park.
* The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club and will host a hike to Grassy Ridge Bald on Roan Mountain.
You can get more details on each of these, and see the complete list of events across the country, by clicking here. Please note that more events are being added as we get closer to June 5th.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
National Trails Day is the American Hiking Society's signature trail awareness program, and it will take place on June 5th this year.
* The Great Smoky Mountains will be putting volunteers to work on two trail locations from 9 a.m. and 3 p.m: the Grassy Branch Trail near Cherokee and the Crooked Arm Ridge Trail in Cades Cove. Equipment, including work gloves, will be provided.
* Shenandoah National Park will offer a variety of guided hikes as well as some trail skill seminars for hikers and backpackers.* The Southern Appalachian Back Country Horsemen will be doing trail maintenance work on the Mill Branch and the Iron Gap trails in the Cherokee National Forest.
* The SORBA Chattanooga chapter is sponsoring a work/play weekend at Big South Fork Recreation Area.
* The Cumberland Trail Conference will sponser two hikes along the Cumberland Trail near Soddy Daisy.
* Construction of a missing link of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail around Waterrock Knob on the Blue Ridge Parkway is being directed by the Carolina Mountain Club. Meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Fork Ridge Overlook at milepost 229. 828.658.1489 or ccf108@gmail.com.
• The Nantahala Hiking Club will take a four-mile, moderate to strenuous work hike with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Konnarock trail crew in the vicinity of Tellico Gap. Meet at Westgate Plaza in Franklin (opposite Burger King) at 8 a.m. 828.369.1983.
Here are a few other events I mentioned in my previous post:
* The Smoky Mountain Hiking Club will utilize the day as a trail repair and construction event. They will meet in Gatlinburg at 7:30 a.m. that morning.
* The Carolina Mountain Club will host a couple of hikes, including the Lakeshore Loop near Fontana Lake in the southern Smoky Mountains.
* Chimney Rock State Park will be offering free guided hikes on the hour from 11am to 3pm with park education staff and rangers who will discuss the plants and wildlife at the park.
* The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club and will host a hike to Grassy Ridge Bald on Roan Mountain.
You can get more details on each of these, and see the complete list of events across the country, by clicking here. Please note that more events are being added as we get closer to June 5th.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Update on Road and Facility Projects in Smokies
Great Smoky Mountains National Park officials have announced new completion dates for several construction projects that are underway to improve park roads and facilities. Severe winter weather conditions and delays in awarding certain contracts have resulted in revised work schedules and opening dates for some of these projects. Many rehabilitation projects, with funding provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and previously-authorized Federal Lands Highway Program funds, are underway or are soon to start. Extensions of original completion dates have been granted for several of the construction projects as indicated below:
Clingmans Dome Road – Set to open on Saturday, June 19. When the road opens, repaving work will continue on the lower 3 miles of road with one lane closures and flaggers through July 2.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – A new completion date is to be determined (previously set to open May 28). The work involves resurfacing the 5.6 mile road with asphalt concrete pavement and will include resurfacing all existing parking areas, trailheads, and roadside pullouts.
Heintooga Ridge Road - Set to open Friday, May 28. When the road opens, repaving work will continue with one lane closures and flaggers through August 31.
Balsam Mountain Campground – Set to open on or before Thursday, June 17. Note: Campers should begin checking the status of the campground opening on the Park’s website the week of June 7. The 45-site campground is being repaved.
Sinks Parking Area along Little River Road – Set to open Monday, June 28. The majority of the project involves construction and reconfiguration of the parking area and a new handicap accessible observation platform to view the waterfalls.
Gatlinburg Bypass – The repaving project is on hold and a new construction schedule will be determined.
In addition to the above, the following work is on schedule and provides a snapshot of other projects affecting public use at different levels of disruption:
Foothills Parkway (Blount County) – The road is open, however motorists can expect single lane closures and flaggers with minimal delays. The resurfacing/paving project will be completed on Wednesday, June 30.
Foothills Parkway (Cocke County) – The repaving of this road will begin in late May and is scheduled for completion on Tuesday, August 31. Note: During this period of construction, the road will be closed to all public use for a four week period. The dates of this closure have not been determined but will be posted on the park’s website.
Little River and Jakes Creeks Trailheads – The trailheads will be closed from July 6 through August 31 and will affect trailhead parking. Due to the lack of available trailhead parking, visitors are advised to utilize other Park trails during this period. The trailhead work will result in paved parking spaces.
Newfound Gap Road between Collins Creek Picnic Area and Cherokee, N.C. – This repaving project is slated to be finished in early January 2011.
Smokemont Campground – Set to open Friday, May 28. The 142-campsite is being repaved.
In addition, the construction of bridge 2 on the unopened segment of the Foothills Parkway on the Sevier County end of the “Missing Link” began this spring. All public use (walkers, cyclists, and equestrians) is now prohibited since heavy construction equipment will be traveling the roadway.
Improvements to the Cosby Campground and Cades Cove Loop Road have been completed, as well as the painting and/or reroofing of 65 comfort stations in picnic and campground areas.
The park’s website is the best source for obtaining up-to-date information on the status of the projects and opening dates of facilities and how each project may affect visitor access to certain areas, i.e., trailheads. The site also provides a map outlining the project areas with details on the type of work being accomplished.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Clingmans Dome Road – Set to open on Saturday, June 19. When the road opens, repaving work will continue on the lower 3 miles of road with one lane closures and flaggers through July 2.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail – A new completion date is to be determined (previously set to open May 28). The work involves resurfacing the 5.6 mile road with asphalt concrete pavement and will include resurfacing all existing parking areas, trailheads, and roadside pullouts.
Heintooga Ridge Road - Set to open Friday, May 28. When the road opens, repaving work will continue with one lane closures and flaggers through August 31.
Balsam Mountain Campground – Set to open on or before Thursday, June 17. Note: Campers should begin checking the status of the campground opening on the Park’s website the week of June 7. The 45-site campground is being repaved.
Sinks Parking Area along Little River Road – Set to open Monday, June 28. The majority of the project involves construction and reconfiguration of the parking area and a new handicap accessible observation platform to view the waterfalls.
Gatlinburg Bypass – The repaving project is on hold and a new construction schedule will be determined.
In addition to the above, the following work is on schedule and provides a snapshot of other projects affecting public use at different levels of disruption:
Foothills Parkway (Blount County) – The road is open, however motorists can expect single lane closures and flaggers with minimal delays. The resurfacing/paving project will be completed on Wednesday, June 30.
Foothills Parkway (Cocke County) – The repaving of this road will begin in late May and is scheduled for completion on Tuesday, August 31. Note: During this period of construction, the road will be closed to all public use for a four week period. The dates of this closure have not been determined but will be posted on the park’s website.
Little River and Jakes Creeks Trailheads – The trailheads will be closed from July 6 through August 31 and will affect trailhead parking. Due to the lack of available trailhead parking, visitors are advised to utilize other Park trails during this period. The trailhead work will result in paved parking spaces.
Newfound Gap Road between Collins Creek Picnic Area and Cherokee, N.C. – This repaving project is slated to be finished in early January 2011.
Smokemont Campground – Set to open Friday, May 28. The 142-campsite is being repaved.
In addition, the construction of bridge 2 on the unopened segment of the Foothills Parkway on the Sevier County end of the “Missing Link” began this spring. All public use (walkers, cyclists, and equestrians) is now prohibited since heavy construction equipment will be traveling the roadway.
Improvements to the Cosby Campground and Cades Cove Loop Road have been completed, as well as the painting and/or reroofing of 65 comfort stations in picnic and campground areas.
The park’s website is the best source for obtaining up-to-date information on the status of the projects and opening dates of facilities and how each project may affect visitor access to certain areas, i.e., trailheads. The site also provides a map outlining the project areas with details on the type of work being accomplished.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
National Park Foundation Launches Disaster Recovery Fund
Last week, the National Park Foundation and the National Park Service established the National Parks Disaster Recovery Fund to help national parks recover from future natural and manmade disasters. The fund was immediately activated by Director Jarvis and NPF President and CEO Neil Mulholland to begin raising funds that will be available to Gulf parks for immediate needs throughout the oil spill disaster as well as long-term monitoring of the health of damaged ecosystems.
No funds raised will be used to mitigate the liability of any responsible parties for the injuries caused by the oil spill.
“The federal government’s unprecedented response to the environmental disaster in the Gulf is matched only by the desire of the American people to help,” said Tom Strickland, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks of the U.S. Department of the Interior. “Thanks to this effort by the National Park Foundation, those who wish to help us protect national parks threatened by the oil spill can do so.”
Individuals wishing to support this effort may visit www.nationalparks.org, or text “PARKS” to 90999 on their mobile device to make a $10 donation. Funds raised between now and July 1, 2010, will go directly to the impacted parks in the Gulf and support critical and immediate needs as well as sustained scientific study of maintenance of impacted ecosystems.
Parks in the projected path of the Gulf oil spill include:
* Big Cypress National Preserve
* Biscayne National Park
* De Soto National Memorial
* Dry Tortugas National Park
* Everglades National Park
* Gulf Islands National Seashore
* Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
* Padre Island National Seashore
To learn more, visit http://myaccount.nationalparks.org/GulfSpill.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
No funds raised will be used to mitigate the liability of any responsible parties for the injuries caused by the oil spill.
“The federal government’s unprecedented response to the environmental disaster in the Gulf is matched only by the desire of the American people to help,” said Tom Strickland, Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks of the U.S. Department of the Interior. “Thanks to this effort by the National Park Foundation, those who wish to help us protect national parks threatened by the oil spill can do so.”
Individuals wishing to support this effort may visit www.nationalparks.org, or text “PARKS” to 90999 on their mobile device to make a $10 donation. Funds raised between now and July 1, 2010, will go directly to the impacted parks in the Gulf and support critical and immediate needs as well as sustained scientific study of maintenance of impacted ecosystems.
Parks in the projected path of the Gulf oil spill include:
* Big Cypress National Preserve
* Biscayne National Park
* De Soto National Memorial
* Dry Tortugas National Park
* Everglades National Park
* Gulf Islands National Seashore
* Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
* Padre Island National Seashore
To learn more, visit http://myaccount.nationalparks.org/GulfSpill.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Flood Recovery continues at Mammoth Cave National Park
More than three weeks after storms and heavy rains, Mammoth Cave National Park staff continue to assess damages and make repairs, where possible, following the flood that hit the park on the first two days of May.
The canoe launch and picnic area are now open at Dennison Ferry day use area, Joppa Ridge Road has reopened, and all cave tours are operating on their normal schedule and along traditional routes. Houchin Ferry remains closed. Houchin Ferry Road South is open, but only for access to the river. The pavilion picnic tables floated away and the campground is in disrepair. Houchin Ferry campground still needs a significant amount of work.
Though park trails on both sides of Green River were impacted by the flood, Cedar Sink is the only trail in the park that is closed. Ugly Creek/Little Jordan Road suffered washout damage and is closed between Wilkerson Cemetery and Little Jordan Cemetery.
For more information on hiking at Mammoth Cave, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The canoe launch and picnic area are now open at Dennison Ferry day use area, Joppa Ridge Road has reopened, and all cave tours are operating on their normal schedule and along traditional routes. Houchin Ferry remains closed. Houchin Ferry Road South is open, but only for access to the river. The pavilion picnic tables floated away and the campground is in disrepair. Houchin Ferry campground still needs a significant amount of work.
Though park trails on both sides of Green River were impacted by the flood, Cedar Sink is the only trail in the park that is closed. Ugly Creek/Little Jordan Road suffered washout damage and is closed between Wilkerson Cemetery and Little Jordan Cemetery.
For more information on hiking at Mammoth Cave, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Deep Creek footbridge is washed out
This is from the Smokies park website:
The footbridge crossing Deep Creek near the junction of Deep Creek Trail and Pole Road Creek Trail is washed out. Fording Deep Creek during periods of high water is very difficult.
On the map below, the (former) location of the bridge is in between campsites 55 and 56:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The footbridge crossing Deep Creek near the junction of Deep Creek Trail and Pole Road Creek Trail is washed out. Fording Deep Creek during periods of high water is very difficult.
On the map below, the (former) location of the bridge is in between campsites 55 and 56:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Chimney Rock State Park seeks input on Master Plan
As part of the process to create a master plan for Chimney Rock State Park in the Hickory Nut Gorge, the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation will conduct a public planning session on May 26 at the Lake Lure Town Hall. Citizens are invited to visit the drop-in session anytime from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Proposed design alternatives for the state park will be presented and the public will be able to ask questions and offer comments to officials of the state parks system and Greenways Inc., a Durham-based environmental planning and landscape architecture firm responsible for completing the plan.
“Creating a world class state park at Chimney Rock has been and continues to be a partnership effort between the state parks system and the community,” said Lewis Ledford, division director. “Chimney Rock State Park has benefited from strong support in the community, and it’s important that citizens continue to be involved in the process.”
A state park’s master plan is essentially a blueprint for long-term development of facilities and recreation opportunities and a guide for protection of natural resources. It is meant to be an organic document, evolving as the park grows and as knowledge is gained about a park’s natural resources and public use.
The master plan could help the agency decide how the attraction will be operated, if the fee will remain and if trails will be built through the backcountry.
It could also help decide if the popular Skyline-Cliff Loop trail leading up to the top of Hickory Nut Falls will reopen. The trail was closed two years ago after a 2-year-old boy fell to his death on the trail, which is comprised of man-made structures to navigate the sheer rock faces.
The master plan will also guide land acquisition - Chimney Rock could grow by another 2,000-4,000 acres.
The N.C. General Assembly authorized Chimney Rock State Park in 2005, and more than 4,300 acres in Rutherford, Polk, Henderson and Buncombe counties has been acquired in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, the Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina and others. In 2007, the former Chimney Rock tourist destination was added to the park and offers the principal current public access.
The drop-in planning session will involve a workstation format allowing citizens to attend at any time during the day and spend as much time as necessary to review and discuss design alternatives. Proposed designs will also be available beginning May 26 at www.greenways.com/chimneyrock.
Written comments may be submitted through June 23 either by using an online comment sheet or by mail to: General Management Plan Coordinator, NC Division of Parks and Recreation, 1615 MSC, Raleigh, NC 27699-1615.
For general information on the park, including hiking information, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Proposed design alternatives for the state park will be presented and the public will be able to ask questions and offer comments to officials of the state parks system and Greenways Inc., a Durham-based environmental planning and landscape architecture firm responsible for completing the plan.
“Creating a world class state park at Chimney Rock has been and continues to be a partnership effort between the state parks system and the community,” said Lewis Ledford, division director. “Chimney Rock State Park has benefited from strong support in the community, and it’s important that citizens continue to be involved in the process.”
A state park’s master plan is essentially a blueprint for long-term development of facilities and recreation opportunities and a guide for protection of natural resources. It is meant to be an organic document, evolving as the park grows and as knowledge is gained about a park’s natural resources and public use.
The master plan could help the agency decide how the attraction will be operated, if the fee will remain and if trails will be built through the backcountry.
It could also help decide if the popular Skyline-Cliff Loop trail leading up to the top of Hickory Nut Falls will reopen. The trail was closed two years ago after a 2-year-old boy fell to his death on the trail, which is comprised of man-made structures to navigate the sheer rock faces.
The master plan will also guide land acquisition - Chimney Rock could grow by another 2,000-4,000 acres.
The N.C. General Assembly authorized Chimney Rock State Park in 2005, and more than 4,300 acres in Rutherford, Polk, Henderson and Buncombe counties has been acquired in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, the Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy, the Foothills Conservancy of North Carolina and others. In 2007, the former Chimney Rock tourist destination was added to the park and offers the principal current public access.
The drop-in planning session will involve a workstation format allowing citizens to attend at any time during the day and spend as much time as necessary to review and discuss design alternatives. Proposed designs will also be available beginning May 26 at www.greenways.com/chimneyrock.
Written comments may be submitted through June 23 either by using an online comment sheet or by mail to: General Management Plan Coordinator, NC Division of Parks and Recreation, 1615 MSC, Raleigh, NC 27699-1615.
For general information on the park, including hiking information, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Top Bargain U.S. Travel Destinations
With AAA predicting a 5.4 percent increase in U.S. travelers for Memorial Day travel, Moon Travel Guides is offering a list of 15 budget-friendly U.S. travel destinations to help inspire travelers to hit the road, while saving money at the same time.
Moon’s American Nomad blogger and travel guidebook author, Laura Martone, helped Moon Travel Guides compile a list of 15 top budget-friendly U.S. travel destinations for summertime travel.
“With unique and fun cities like Austin and Portland, and some smaller, more family-friendly gems, like Traverse City, MI, this list of budget-friendly destinations is a great starting point for any budget-conscious traveler,” said Martone.
The list, which was recently published in a three-part series on Laura’s blog, American Nomad, includes the following destinations:
The Florida Keys; New Orleans; Hot Springs, AR; Austin, TX; South Padre Island, TX; Santa Fe, NM; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles; Portland, OR; Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks;
Denver, CO; Chicago, IL; Traverse City, MI and Washington, D.C.
Last on her list was none other than Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here's what Laura has to say about the Smokies:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the only major national parks that doesn't charge an entrance fee, so you can easily tour this vast place, whether via car, bicycle, or foot, free of charge. In addition, you can rent bicycles for $4-6 per hour at Cades Cove Campground Store & Bicycle Rental, and hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and touring waterfalls are popular, free activities. Moreover, ten primitive campgrounds are available in the park for $14-23 per night. Clingmans Dome, situated along the Appalachian Trail, is one particularly curious (and free) attraction in the park. At 6,643 feet, it's the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. On clear days, it affords incredible, 360-degree views. Situated within the heart of the Smokies, Gatlinburg features a variety of family-friendly attractions, including unlimited mini-golf at Fort Fun's two 18-hole courses ($16), a Gatlinburg Sky Lift ($12 adults, $9 children 3-11), and a ton of museums. In nearby Pigeon Forge, Dollywood offers reasonably priced cabins (as low as $179 per night for seven people) as well as vacation packages with area hotels.
Just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, Moon Travel Guides has just published its latest guide on the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. The book, written by Deborah Huso, offers tips and advice on travel strategies, scenic drives, horseback riding, hiking, and camping.
Moon Travel Guides makes independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic advice, and an essential dose of humor, Moon guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience.
For more information and to order a copy of the Smokies Moon Travel Guide, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Moon’s American Nomad blogger and travel guidebook author, Laura Martone, helped Moon Travel Guides compile a list of 15 top budget-friendly U.S. travel destinations for summertime travel.
“With unique and fun cities like Austin and Portland, and some smaller, more family-friendly gems, like Traverse City, MI, this list of budget-friendly destinations is a great starting point for any budget-conscious traveler,” said Martone.
The list, which was recently published in a three-part series on Laura’s blog, American Nomad, includes the following destinations:
The Florida Keys; New Orleans; Hot Springs, AR; Austin, TX; South Padre Island, TX; Santa Fe, NM; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles; Portland, OR; Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks;
Denver, CO; Chicago, IL; Traverse City, MI and Washington, D.C.
Last on her list was none other than Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here's what Laura has to say about the Smokies:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the only major national parks that doesn't charge an entrance fee, so you can easily tour this vast place, whether via car, bicycle, or foot, free of charge. In addition, you can rent bicycles for $4-6 per hour at Cades Cove Campground Store & Bicycle Rental, and hiking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and touring waterfalls are popular, free activities. Moreover, ten primitive campgrounds are available in the park for $14-23 per night. Clingmans Dome, situated along the Appalachian Trail, is one particularly curious (and free) attraction in the park. At 6,643 feet, it's the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. On clear days, it affords incredible, 360-degree views. Situated within the heart of the Smokies, Gatlinburg features a variety of family-friendly attractions, including unlimited mini-golf at Fort Fun's two 18-hole courses ($16), a Gatlinburg Sky Lift ($12 adults, $9 children 3-11), and a ton of museums. In nearby Pigeon Forge, Dollywood offers reasonably priced cabins (as low as $179 per night for seven people) as well as vacation packages with area hotels.
Just in time for Memorial Day Weekend, Moon Travel Guides has just published its latest guide on the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. The book, written by Deborah Huso, offers tips and advice on travel strategies, scenic drives, horseback riding, hiking, and camping.Moon Travel Guides makes independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic advice, and an essential dose of humor, Moon guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience.
For more information and to order a copy of the Smokies Moon Travel Guide, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Within the Shadows of Cumberland Gap Heritage Walk
The Wilderness Road that travels through the Cumberland Gap has seen hundreds of years of history and has been witness to tales of heartbreak and joy, loss and discovery. Visitors can discover these stories during the Friday, May 28th event, “Within the Shadows of Cumberland Gap Heritage Walk,” to begin at the Daniel Boone parking area in Virginia at 6:30 p.m.
During the 1.5 mile long walk through the Gap, visitors will meet several “ghosts” from the road’s past. They will hear the tales of a Cherokee warrior and a long-hunter from 1700 and 1780. Mary Cloud Turner, wife of Revolutionary War soldier John Turner, will be there, sharing her experiences as a resident along the Road in the early 1800s. Meet Matilda, a slave from Newlee’s Iron Furnace down in the town of Cumberland Gap, who is looking for an escape route along the Road in the 1850s. Soon after Matilda fades away, encounter Confederate soldiers of the Civil War during their occupation of the Gap in 1861. Jump forward in time again to the 1920s and meet an English gentleman and his roadster, out for a ride on the newly paved Dixie Highway. Finish your tour with a park ranger, not from 2010 but from 1960, as he welcomes all to this brand-new gem of the National Park Service.
The 1.5 mile walk through the Gap along the Wilderness Road is moderate with one uphill section and some loose gravel. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes. A shuttle will be provided to take visitors back to the Daniel Boone parking area after the event, which is expected to last approximately two hours.
For more general information on hiking at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
During the 1.5 mile long walk through the Gap, visitors will meet several “ghosts” from the road’s past. They will hear the tales of a Cherokee warrior and a long-hunter from 1700 and 1780. Mary Cloud Turner, wife of Revolutionary War soldier John Turner, will be there, sharing her experiences as a resident along the Road in the early 1800s. Meet Matilda, a slave from Newlee’s Iron Furnace down in the town of Cumberland Gap, who is looking for an escape route along the Road in the 1850s. Soon after Matilda fades away, encounter Confederate soldiers of the Civil War during their occupation of the Gap in 1861. Jump forward in time again to the 1920s and meet an English gentleman and his roadster, out for a ride on the newly paved Dixie Highway. Finish your tour with a park ranger, not from 2010 but from 1960, as he welcomes all to this brand-new gem of the National Park Service.The 1.5 mile walk through the Gap along the Wilderness Road is moderate with one uphill section and some loose gravel. Visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes. A shuttle will be provided to take visitors back to the Daniel Boone parking area after the event, which is expected to last approximately two hours.
For more general information on hiking at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Kids will be kids
Check out this video of twin baby moose and their mother playing in a sprinkler in the backyard of a home in Anchorage, Alaska.
The video is accompanied by a song from Alison Krause, one of the best voices in all of music:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The video is accompanied by a song from Alison Krause, one of the best voices in all of music:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Jordan Romero becomes youngest to reach Everest
There's a brief posting on Jordan Romero's website stating that the 13-year old has successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest, thus becoming the youngest person to reach the top of the world.Here's what was posted on his blog earlier today:
The team just called in and confirmed that they are standing on top of Mt. Everest - the highest peak in the world. Their dreams have now come true. Everyone sounded unbelievably happy. They also thanked everyone who supported them and encouraged them throughout their journey.
I’m sure we’ll hear more from them soon!
A subsequent posting on the blog also states that the Team’s SPOT GPS is indicating that the team has arrived safely back at Camp 2 (24,750 ft) roughly 26 hours after reaching the summit.
For Jordan, Mt. Everest just became the sixth of the "Seven Summits" - the highest points on each continent - that he has now summited. He hopes to become the youngest to reach all "Seven Summits" by tackling Mt. Vinson in the Antarctic later this year.
Congratulations to Jordan!!
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Synchronous Fireflies schedule details set
Each June in the Elkmont area of the Great Smoky Mountains, a natural phenomenon occurs that continues to baffle scientists.
During a two week window in late spring, thousands of lightning bugs flash in complete unison.
The synchronous firefly show, which researchers have identified as a rare form of “simultaneous bioluminescence”, is a popular and growing attraction for the Smoky Mountains. Each evening, several hundred park visitors begin arriving in Elmont with blankets, chairs and flashlights to witness the natural phenomenon that occurs after the park becomes pitch black.
If you would like to see this incredible show, you should be aware that the park closes the road to Elkmont. The only way to access the area is by using the trolley service provided by the park from the Sugarlands Visitor Center beginning on Saturday, June 5th, through the following Sunday night, June 13th.
Additional details from Park Officials:
The Elkmont entrance road will be closed to motor vehicles and pedestrian use every night from 5:00 p.m. until midnight, June 5-13, except to registered campers staying at the Elkmont Campground.
The trolleys will begin picking up visitors from the Sugarlands Visitor Center RV/bus parking area at 7 p.m. this year. The trolleys will run continually until the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area is full, or until 9 p.m., whichever comes first. The last trolley to return visitors from Elkmont to the Sugarlands Visitor Center is scheduled at 11 p.m. The cost will be $1 round trip per person as in previous years.
It's recommended that visitors bring flashlights with red cellophane covers to reduce white light. Visitors can bring lawn chairs, and carry food and water in backpacks which can fit on their laps in the trolleys. Please note that there are no services available at the site.
Visitors are prohibited from bringing coolers, alcoholic beverages, or their pets.
For more information about the synchronous fireflies, including a video, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
During a two week window in late spring, thousands of lightning bugs flash in complete unison.
The synchronous firefly show, which researchers have identified as a rare form of “simultaneous bioluminescence”, is a popular and growing attraction for the Smoky Mountains. Each evening, several hundred park visitors begin arriving in Elmont with blankets, chairs and flashlights to witness the natural phenomenon that occurs after the park becomes pitch black.
If you would like to see this incredible show, you should be aware that the park closes the road to Elkmont. The only way to access the area is by using the trolley service provided by the park from the Sugarlands Visitor Center beginning on Saturday, June 5th, through the following Sunday night, June 13th.
Additional details from Park Officials:
The Elkmont entrance road will be closed to motor vehicles and pedestrian use every night from 5:00 p.m. until midnight, June 5-13, except to registered campers staying at the Elkmont Campground.
The trolleys will begin picking up visitors from the Sugarlands Visitor Center RV/bus parking area at 7 p.m. this year. The trolleys will run continually until the Sugarlands Visitor Center parking area is full, or until 9 p.m., whichever comes first. The last trolley to return visitors from Elkmont to the Sugarlands Visitor Center is scheduled at 11 p.m. The cost will be $1 round trip per person as in previous years.
It's recommended that visitors bring flashlights with red cellophane covers to reduce white light. Visitors can bring lawn chairs, and carry food and water in backpacks which can fit on their laps in the trolleys. Please note that there are no services available at the site.
Visitors are prohibited from bringing coolers, alcoholic beverages, or their pets.
For more information about the synchronous fireflies, including a video, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Friday, May 21, 2010
New NPS Website Helps Chart Summer Adventures
Summer is the time for… climbing the peak … hitting the trail … rafting the gorge …even discovering our history. Before heading out for adventure, all but the most spontaneous traveler spends at least a little time planning an itinerary, negotiating routes and researching the environs. If you’re looking for great places and things to do, the National Park Service has the site for you.
The National Park Service’s new 2010 Summer Adventure trip planning website connects visitors to travel resources, events and services at national parks across the country.
An easy-to-navigate design links visitors to sites of interest, lodging, upcoming events and tips to get the most out of their national park adventure. An interactive calendar makes it easy to search for special events by state or by park. Visitors will also find information about educational programs in the national parks and an array of travel guides.
Last year more than 285 million people visited national parks. Make this the year for your national park adventure.
Visit the site at www.nps.gov/pub_aff/plan_your_visit/index.htm.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The National Park Service’s new 2010 Summer Adventure trip planning website connects visitors to travel resources, events and services at national parks across the country.
An easy-to-navigate design links visitors to sites of interest, lodging, upcoming events and tips to get the most out of their national park adventure. An interactive calendar makes it easy to search for special events by state or by park. Visitors will also find information about educational programs in the national parks and an array of travel guides.
Last year more than 285 million people visited national parks. Make this the year for your national park adventure.
Visit the site at www.nps.gov/pub_aff/plan_your_visit/index.htm.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Don’t mess with Texas
Characterized by more jazz-influenced swing, slide guitars, guitar "licks" and solos, another variation of the blues was born out of Texas. Although Stevie Ray Vaughn is probably the most famous representative of this genre, he’s pre-dated by decades by the likes of Freddie King, Lightnin’ Hopkins and T-Bone Walker.
Here’s Freddie King doing Hideaway, a song both SRV and Clapton covered:
One of my alltime favorite blues songs is Stormy Monday Blues originally written by T-Bone Walker. Although I like the Allman Brothers and Bobby Blue Bland’s versions much better, here's T-Bone doing it live:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Here’s Freddie King doing Hideaway, a song both SRV and Clapton covered:
One of my alltime favorite blues songs is Stormy Monday Blues originally written by T-Bone Walker. Although I like the Allman Brothers and Bobby Blue Bland’s versions much better, here's T-Bone doing it live:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Volunteer Pass Now Available!
Do you enjoy the outdoors? Do you want to help make the State Forests more enjoyable for yourself and others? Then consider volunteering with the Virginia Department of Forestry on one of our 20 State Forests. Most of our forests have trail systems that offer a users a variety of enjoyable activities from hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, physical fitness, and peace of mind. Many of our trails, however, are in need of a little bit of tender love and care.
The Virginia Department of Forestry now has the ability to reward you for volunteering on our forests. With just 10 hours of volunteer time you can earn a free forest use permit which allows you to hunt, trap, fish, bike, and ride horses on our state forests. This is normally a $16 annual fee. The permit will be good for one year from the date of issue. All you have to do is fill out a volunteer form and timesheet and have a local forestry official sign off on your volunteer hours; your pass will then be mailed to you.
So how can you volunteer? Talk to a state forest employee or county forestry official to see if any specific tasks need to be done. To be honest, we aren't very picky. You can pick up trash along our roads, help remove invasive plants, cut brush from trails, or a number of other activities. Virginia's State Parks consistently ranks highly among America's State Parks because of the hard work of their many volunteers; we hope to be able to maintain the same enjoyable atmosphere in our forests. So put on some bug spray, smear on some suntan lotion, grab your gloves, and come on out to a State Forest near you!
The Virginia Department of Forestry now has the ability to reward you for volunteering on our forests. With just 10 hours of volunteer time you can earn a free forest use permit which allows you to hunt, trap, fish, bike, and ride horses on our state forests. This is normally a $16 annual fee. The permit will be good for one year from the date of issue. All you have to do is fill out a volunteer form and timesheet and have a local forestry official sign off on your volunteer hours; your pass will then be mailed to you.
So how can you volunteer? Talk to a state forest employee or county forestry official to see if any specific tasks need to be done. To be honest, we aren't very picky. You can pick up trash along our roads, help remove invasive plants, cut brush from trails, or a number of other activities. Virginia's State Parks consistently ranks highly among America's State Parks because of the hard work of their many volunteers; we hope to be able to maintain the same enjoyable atmosphere in our forests. So put on some bug spray, smear on some suntan lotion, grab your gloves, and come on out to a State Forest near you!
The American Invasion
Prior to the sixties, blues music wasn’t really embraced by “white” America. In Britain, however, American blues was revered, including by many of the rock bands that came across “the pond” during that same decade. Some of bands heavily influenced by American blues included John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers, Cream and the Yardbirds, all of which featured Eric Clapton at one time or another. Other bands during that era include the Rolling Stones, Jeff Beck, the Animals and Led Zeppelin.
Many people don’t know this, but Fleetwood Mac was originally one of those British blues bands as well. The “Mac” has gone through several transformations during their long history, including becoming a rock/pop band after taking on Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks in 1975. Prior to that, in the late 60s, the Mac was primarily a blues band, founded by Peter Green. This is their biggest hit from that era:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Many people don’t know this, but Fleetwood Mac was originally one of those British blues bands as well. The “Mac” has gone through several transformations during their long history, including becoming a rock/pop band after taking on Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks in 1975. Prior to that, in the late 60s, the Mac was primarily a blues band, founded by Peter Green. This is their biggest hit from that era:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Birding
Recently the Nation Audubon Society conducted a survey of Virginia Important Bird Areas (IBA). I was forwarded a list of species found while one of the surveyors was at Cumberland State Forest. In just three hours she found all of the following on the forest:
Ovenbird 21
Cape May warbler 2
Louisiana waterthrush 4
Hooded warbler 8
Northern parula 8
Red-eyed vireo 24
Carolina wren 7
Wood duck 1
Blue gray gnatcatcher 9
Eastern pheobe 1
Kentucky warbler 3
Eastern wood peewee 8
Downy woodpecker 2
Great crested flycatcher 6
Acadian flycatcher 9
Northern cardinal 2
Common yellowthroat 12
Tufted titmouse 4
Northern flicker 1
Prothonotary warbler 2
White-eyed vireo 6
Blue jay 4
Yellow-billed cuckoo 6
Red-bellied WP 4
Pileated woodpecker 2
American crow 5
Indigo bunting 8
Black polled warbler 5
Prairie warbler 15
Yellow throated vireo 3
Black and white warbler 5
Bay-breasted warbler 1
Scarlet tanager 6
Field sparrow 4
Red headed WP 1
Chipping sparrow 1
American goldfinch 3
Carolina chickadee 2
Red-shouldered hawk 1
Wood thrush 4
Blue-headed vireo 2
Pine warbler 4
Yellow breasted chat 6
Eastern towhee 6
Brown headed cowbird 2
Yellow throated warbler 1
Brown thrasher 1
Summer tanager 2
Northern mockingbird 1
Now just imagine what you could find in a whole day!
King of Zydeco
One off-shoot of blues music is Cajun or Zydeco that developed out of Louisiana. Cajun/Zydeco combined blues with French Creole music. Clifton Chenier, known as the “King of Zydeco”, brought this style of music into popularity in the 1950s:
The mix of French and blues is more prevalent on this song:
Another great Zydeco artist to explore is Beau Jocque.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
The mix of French and blues is more prevalent on this song:
Another great Zydeco artist to explore is Beau Jocque.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The Great Mississippi Flood
The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 brought huge changes to the country. The hardest impact from the flood was felt in the Mississippi Delta area. One result in the aftermath of the flood was a huge migration of black sharecroppers from the delta to cities in the north, in particular, Chicago. Included in that migration were many bluesmen. Once there, they added rhythm to the music they brought with them and plugged-in, thus, creating what is now known as Chicago Blues.
A great example of Chicago Blues is Elmore James, who had a profound influence on a host of modern era rockers such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and the Allman Brothers.
This is One Way Out, which the Allmans recorded and made a hit out of it. However, this is different version from the one I have on my compilation CD, which is more similar to the way the Allmans covered it:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
A great example of Chicago Blues is Elmore James, who had a profound influence on a host of modern era rockers such as Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and the Allman Brothers.
This is One Way Out, which the Allmans recorded and made a hit out of it. However, this is different version from the one I have on my compilation CD, which is more similar to the way the Allmans covered it:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Monday, May 17, 2010
We’re in a drought
No, not from a lack of rain, but rather from a lack of material to write about. If you haven’t noticed recently, there hasn’t been a lot of things going on in the Smokies or in the hiking world in general. To help remedy the situation I decided I’m going to post a series of short articles on the blues this week. I’ll also include a video or two from some of the artists.
I’ve been listening to the blues for the last couple of years and have come to realize the talent and importance of this style of music. In fact, the more I explore and listen, the more I appreciate the music that helped to spawn rock and roll.
Throughout this week maybe this brief overview will spawn some interest in the blues in you.
Most American music can trace its roots back to Africa or Ireland/Scotland. Blues, jazz, bluegrass, country and rock and roll all have roots in the traditional music of those regions.
The blues was born in the Deep South in the aftermath of the Civil War, and was passed down through live performances, most notably in the Mississippi Delta.
One of the earlier blues recordings was that of Robert Johnson. Some say this also marked the birth of rock and roll. Legend has it that Johnson sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads to become a guitar master. He even did a recording; Crossroad Blues, which Eric Clapton tweaked and made a hit out of three decades later.
Johnson died in 1938 at the age of 27 – the same age that Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain and Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones, among several others that all died at that same age.
In my opinion, here’s Robert Johnson’s best recording:
Bonus track: Here’s Mamie Smith, supposedly the very first vocal blues recording from 1920:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
I’ve been listening to the blues for the last couple of years and have come to realize the talent and importance of this style of music. In fact, the more I explore and listen, the more I appreciate the music that helped to spawn rock and roll.
Throughout this week maybe this brief overview will spawn some interest in the blues in you.
Most American music can trace its roots back to Africa or Ireland/Scotland. Blues, jazz, bluegrass, country and rock and roll all have roots in the traditional music of those regions.
The blues was born in the Deep South in the aftermath of the Civil War, and was passed down through live performances, most notably in the Mississippi Delta.
One of the earlier blues recordings was that of Robert Johnson. Some say this also marked the birth of rock and roll. Legend has it that Johnson sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads to become a guitar master. He even did a recording; Crossroad Blues, which Eric Clapton tweaked and made a hit out of three decades later.
Johnson died in 1938 at the age of 27 – the same age that Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain and Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones, among several others that all died at that same age.
In my opinion, here’s Robert Johnson’s best recording:
Bonus track: Here’s Mamie Smith, supposedly the very first vocal blues recording from 1920:
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Backpacking with Confidence
Backpacking with Confidence is a hands-on field course offered by the Smoky Mountain Field School, an organization founded through the cooperative relationship between The University of Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In this class you'll gain the confidence and know-how to care for yourself in the backcountry.
You'll learn the basics of backpacking (from how to get safe drinking water and storing your food, to setting up camp) and will help you cope with whatever challenges you may encounter and make any adventure safe and enjoyable.
The course will also discuss wildlife that might be encountered to help you become more familiar and comfortable.
Participants will also enjoy both the natural and cultural history aspects of the Smokies along the Porter's Creek Trail. This moderate (7.4 miles roundtrip) is well known for its high diversity and abundance of spring wildflowers. Meals and some gear are to be provided by each participant.
The course is scheduled for the weekend of May 29-30th, and the cost is $98 (nonrefundable). For more information, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
In this class you'll gain the confidence and know-how to care for yourself in the backcountry.You'll learn the basics of backpacking (from how to get safe drinking water and storing your food, to setting up camp) and will help you cope with whatever challenges you may encounter and make any adventure safe and enjoyable.
The course will also discuss wildlife that might be encountered to help you become more familiar and comfortable.
Participants will also enjoy both the natural and cultural history aspects of the Smokies along the Porter's Creek Trail. This moderate (7.4 miles roundtrip) is well known for its high diversity and abundance of spring wildflowers. Meals and some gear are to be provided by each participant.
The course is scheduled for the weekend of May 29-30th, and the cost is $98 (nonrefundable). For more information, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
National Trails Day
American Hiking Society's signature trail awareness program, National Trails Day, will take place on June 5th this year.One of the goals of National Trails Day is to inspire the public and trail enthusiasts nationwide to seek out their favorite trails to discover, learn about, and celebrate trails while participating in educational exhibits, trail dedications, gear demonstrations, instructional workshops and trail work projects.
There will be many events all across the country. The Smoky Mountain Hiking Club will utilize the day as a trail repair and construction event. They will meet in Gatlinburg at 7:30 a.m. that morning.
The Carolina Mountain Club will host a couple of hikes, including the Lakeshore Loop near Fontana Lake in the southern Smoky Mountains.
Chimney Rock State Park will be offering free guided hikes on the hour from 11am to 3pm with park education staff and rangers who will discuss the plants and wildlife at the park.
The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club and will host a hike to Grassy Ridge Bald on Roan Mountain.
These are just a couple of examples. You can get more details on each of these, and see the complete list of events across the country, by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The "Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble"
The Catawba Rhododendron is abundant all across Grandfather Mountain, from MacRae Meadows at 4,300 feet in elevation to MacRae Peak at 5,845 feet in elevation. Because the shrub abounds across this broad range of elevations, its purple flowers can be enjoyed at each successive elevation. The first blooms appear at the lower overlooks in early June and the display will arrive at the Swinging Bridge by the end of the month.Naturalists at Grandfather Mountain will be waiting to share their excitement for the showy rose-lavender blossoms. Visitors can join park staff from June 1 thru June 13 for the "Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble" and participate in special programs and activities that celebrate this herald of summer.
All programs and guided walks offered as part of the Remarkable Rhododendron Ramble are included in the price of admission. For details, please click here or phone 800-468-7325.
For information on the hiking trails at Grandfather Mountain State Park, please click here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Photos from the Himalaya
One of the blogs I follow is the Adventure Blog by Kraig Becker. Kraig recently returned from a trek in the Himalayas and has posted a photo gallery that includes pictures from Kathmandu and his trek to Base Camp on Mt. Everest.
Click here, then click on the slideshow button and enjoy these excellent photos.
Speaking of Mt. Everest, 13-year-old Jordan Romero is on a 48 hour countdown - as of yesterday - to begin his attempt at summiting the highest mountain in the world. His team hopes to possibly make the summit on May 21 or 22nd.
And in keeping with the Everest theme, Stephen Regenold, author of the Gear Junkie, is posting a series of articles on his experience in Nepal last month as a journalist covering Expedition Hanesbrands from Base Camp at Mount Everest. His most recent article is a profile of Ang Temba Sherpa, a leader with Expedition Hanesbrands. Please click here to read the series.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Click here, then click on the slideshow button and enjoy these excellent photos.
Speaking of Mt. Everest, 13-year-old Jordan Romero is on a 48 hour countdown - as of yesterday - to begin his attempt at summiting the highest mountain in the world. His team hopes to possibly make the summit on May 21 or 22nd.And in keeping with the Everest theme, Stephen Regenold, author of the Gear Junkie, is posting a series of articles on his experience in Nepal last month as a journalist covering Expedition Hanesbrands from Base Camp at Mount Everest. His most recent article is a profile of Ang Temba Sherpa, a leader with Expedition Hanesbrands. Please click here to read the series.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Top Summits in the Appalachians
Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine recently published their list of the Top Summits in the Appalachian Mountains, "the pinnacles of outdoor adventure".The list was put together with a bit of a swist. It's not just about hiking to the summit of each of these mountains. The magazine put together a list of mountains that offer several ways to enjoy them; such as biking, backpacking, racing, climbing, camping, paddling and even swimming on them.
Here's their list:
1) Shenandoah Mountain, Virginia
2) Spruce Mountain, West Virginia
3) Blood Mountain, Georgia
4) Mount Mitchell, North Carolina
5) Walden Ridge, Tennessee
6) Crowders Mountain, N.C.
7) South Mountain, Maryland
8) Table Rock Mountain, S.C.
9) Kennesaw Mountain, Georgia
You can read the full article by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
What is that purple box hanging in that tree?
Have you seen this purple box? Do you know what it is? If you guessed a trap used for detecting the Emerald Ash Borer, you are right! The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive insect that has found it's way into Virginia. 
EAB is already responsible for the death of millions of ash trees. First found in Michigan in 2002 this metallic green insect has wreaked havoc across thirteen states and parts of Canada. EAB was found in Fairfax, VA several years ago. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have been monitoring for the pest and fortunately have yet to find any significant moves. However, the EAB is a clever little bug and has figured out that it is easier to travel with unsuspecting humans than to fly from tree to tree. That is why it is VERY IMPORTANT that you do not transport firewood 1) from any of the quarantined counties (check VDOF website for list or google EAB in VA) and 2) for long distances. I know paying for firewood in a park or forest is ridiculous when you can bring it yourself, but trust me, spreading EAB will cost much more.
EAB is already responsible for the death of millions of ash trees. First found in Michigan in 2002 this metallic green insect has wreaked havoc across thirteen states and parts of Canada. EAB was found in Fairfax, VA several years ago. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have been monitoring for the pest and fortunately have yet to find any significant moves. However, the EAB is a clever little bug and has figured out that it is easier to travel with unsuspecting humans than to fly from tree to tree. That is why it is VERY IMPORTANT that you do not transport firewood 1) from any of the quarantined counties (check VDOF website for list or google EAB in VA) and 2) for long distances. I know paying for firewood in a park or forest is ridiculous when you can bring it yourself, but trust me, spreading EAB will cost much more.
So why do I care that this bug kills ash trees? What are they good for anyways? Well ash is most famously used for America's favorite past time, that's right, baseball. Ash is the best wood out there for baseball bats, dense and elastic. You might also find out that your electric guitar is made from ash (that could explain why they are so hard to break on stage). Ash also plays an important role in the forest as a common riparian species. Riparian species are found near waterways and can act as huge filters for sediment and chemicals trying to reach the water. Ash make great yard trees as they are both beautiful and provide excellent shade.
Back to the traps now. I had an opportunity to participate in the monitoring for this insect through the Society of American Foresters. I have placed two traps at Holliday Lake State Park and two at Bear Creek Lake State Park. I will be checking these traps in late June and then again in August before taking them down. I certainly hope that I don't find anything.
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