Chattahoochee River - Suwanee Creek Unit (Gwinnett County, Georgia)

 

Today, I decided to join the Atlanta Outdoor Club for a hike in the Suwanee Creek Unit of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. I've hiked many of the park units, but this one was unknown to me, even though it's very close to my home. The hike organizer mentioned that this unit is undeveloped and has no official trails or parking area. 

I met the organizer and two other hikers in the corner of a nearby grocery store, where we had agreed to leave our cars for the hike. After a sprinting across Peachtree Industrial Drive due to a malfunctioning crosswalk light, we walked a short distance through a pleasant neighborhood before reaching the entrance to the park unit. There is an old sign here, but all of the print has either worn off or was removed. 

The trail begins as a dirt road, which followed a short ways before ducking into some side trails that had been cut by someone, perhaps one of the many residents of the nearby neighborhood. The hike organizer mentioned that he had scouted the trails out prior to this event and had good idea of the route he planned to take. We followed his lead and were treated to some nice, but pretty standard trails through the woods. With most of the trees still barren of leaves, we could see quite some distance across the landscape. It was nice.

After completing a small loop on the western side of the dirt road, we headed towards the confluence of Suwanee Creek and the Chattahoochee River. Here we crossed an old concrete bridge, which seemed sturdy, but likely hasn't been used in years. Now it acts as a canvas for graffiti. 

From there, we walked alongside the Chattahoochee for a short distance, even climbing down an earthen bank to examine some kind of abandoned crane apparatus. The trail continued to loop around until we found ourselves back at the dirt road. 

The bulk of our miles put in, we headed back through the neighborhood towards our cars. Overall, it was a nice little hike of just about 5.2 miles. I have to compliment the organizer for having explore the trails so thoroughly before posting the event and for maintaining a strong pace for the hike, which was a pleasant surprise.

Parade of the Planets (Gwinnett County, Georgia)

 

*Note - Credit to Google for the above image

For the past few weeks, the seven other planets of our solar system (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) have been aligning themselves on the same side of the sun. The effect of this is the ability to see all seven of them in the same night sky. From everything I had read, February 28th, would be the night to witness this 'parade of the planets'. Though I did make an effort to witness this event while on Cumberland Island last weekend, the clouds did not cooperate. Tonight, however, is blessed with clear skies.

After getting done with my last conference call for work about 5:30pm, I drove over to the nearby Little Mulberry Park, which is home to the highest point in Gwinnet County. A short walk from my car up the paved trail and then into an open field with a walled stone patio at the top, provided a great spot to witness tonight's astronomical rarity. There were quite a few people here for the event and I chatted with several of them while observing the heavens.

As the sun set in the southwest, I tried my best to locate Saturn and Mercury, which were following close behind, but the sunset was still too bright. Neptune came next, but was too distant to see with the naked eye and residual sunlight. I did try my new binoculars, but no luck. Soon though, the bright shimmer of Venus became quite apparent in the dark blue sky. Directly overhead, mighty Jupiter soon came into view, and a short time later the red shimmer of Mars began it's march across the sky. I searched for Uranus, which should have been slightly ahead of Jupiter, but was unable to locate it. 

After about an hour enjoying the spectacle, chatting with fellow astronomy enthusiasts, and just taking in a beautiful evening, I decided to call it a night and head back to the car. I startled a few deer on my way down the path, but they quickly went back to their business. What a wonderful world we live in to be able to witness something like this. 

Cumberland Island - Sea Camp (Camden County, Georgia)

I'm leading a group of novice campers on a trip to Cumberland Island for the weekend. It's a long drive from my home near Atlanta, and so, I drove most of the way last night and then finished the route this morning before meeting my three other adventurers at the Cumberland Island Ferry in St. Marys, Georgia. I had been in contact with the others over the last couple of weeks to ensure they brought the appropriate gear and understood what to expect on the island. Everyone, including myself, seemed excited about our weekend excursion.

At the appropriate time, we boarded they ferry and settled in for the 45-minute ride over to Sea Camp dock, which is the main entry point to Cumberland Island. This will be my third (I think) trip to this island, but the first for a couple of my companions. Once the ferry docks, we grab out gear and disembark. It's a short half-mile hike to the Sea Camp campground from the dock. Our agreed upon plan is to first head to our campsite and set up our tents and sleep systems. While getting things set up, we are visited by one of the many, many armadillo that inhabit this little paradise. I give it a gentle nudge with my boot to encourage it to move away from our campsite.

We're able to get all of that done without incident and I'm able to help a couple of the others with some of the finer points of setting up a tent and/or inflating a sleeping pad. By two o'clock or so, we're all settled in our campsite and I suggest we walk out to the beach. This is one of my favorite features of Cumberland island and most of the barrier islands in general. I'm not a 'resort beach' person, but seeing miles of completely undeveloped beach stretching as far as my eyes can see is quite appealing. We head out and follow the short trail and boardwalk over the sand dunes until we reach the white sandy beaches and the Atlantic Ocean spreads out before us all the way to the horizon.

We walk a couple of miles north up the beach, collecting shells and admiring the birds that feed here. It's a bit windy with the waves rolling in, but the temperature is quite comfortable with a fleece on. Everyone seems to be having a fantastic time. Eventually, we find a large flock of small waterfowl spread out all across the beach and decide it is a good time to turn around. 

Once back at camp, we get a fire started and prepare our individual dinners. The fire starts out pretty well, but soon a collapse of the logs puts it in jeopardy. I'm rather indifferent to the fire, but one of the others is determined to see it blaze again. She spends a huge amount of time and effort in this endeavor, but eventually surrenders. 

I had mentioned that there was a planetary alignment underway and we decide to head back out to the beach in the dark and take in what we can see. While we're able to spot Mars, Jupiter, and Venus, the cloud cover we had earlier in the day soon returns and blocks our view. Ah well, we tried.

Heading back to our campsite, we catch site of a opossum on the way. Soon, we're back at camp and everyone decides to turn in. We crawl into our respective tents and start up a movie, or audio book, or whatever we each enjoy. The night passes and I'm able to get a good nights sleep. It didn't even get as cold as expected.

When I rise in the morning, I'm surprised by how warm it is. I was expecting temperatures in the low 40°'s, but it feels more like the higher end of that zone. I change into some fresh cloths and crawl out of my tent. After a quick trip to the recently refurbished restrooms, which are just a short walk away, I get some tea going and begin to prepare my breakfast. The others are doing similar chores. After our meal, we begin to break down camp. Our plan for the day is to explore the southern part of the island on foot and get a few miles in the process. 

After dropping out gear at the dock, we head south along the main road (which is nothing more than compressed soil and sand) towards the Dungeness Ruins. What remains of this expansive mansion was once home to a branch of the wealthy Carnegie Family, but it was destroyed by fire in 1959. The ruins and what remains of the city that was home to the mansions support staff are maintained in a state of arrested decay by the National Park Service. We spend some time walking around the ruins and nearby community, and discussing how these people were dedicated to serving their wealthy employers. We also discuss how poorly this would likely be perceived in today's culture.

After the ruins, we continue south through the palmetto and live oak forest until we reach the raised boardwalk through the salt marshes. The tide is out and the oyster beds are revealed. A number of birds, including a long-legged egret, search the mud for their sustenance. I've asked everyone to be on the lookout for wild horses that roam the island and finally we encounter some as we leave the marshes and head for the beach. We see five in total. The first three require us to do some light bushwhacking, but we stumble on the remaining two without trying. Majestic animals, but they live a hard life out here on this island.

Hitting the beach, we head north and decide to have some lunch on the white sands. I only brought some cashews, but it should be enough to hold me over. A couple of seagulls pace nearby, looking for an easy meal. Soon, we head back into the woods and north along the Parallel Trail, which runs parallel to the main road.

A mile or so in, we hit a crossroads and head back towards the ocean and a shelter we had spotted yesterday. It serves as a great spot for a short rest break. From there, we turn back south the way we came and eventually back out to the Sea Camp Dock. Now, we just have an hour or so to wait for the boat to carry us and our gear home. In the mean time, we are assaulted by hordes of 'no-see-ums', which are tiny biting gnats that congregate where they know people be. I do my best to protect my skin from these little bastards, but I'm sure I'll have number of whelps tomorrow. Our total hike today was a slow and leisurely 7.5 miles. 

The ferry soon arrives and we scramble to get a table inside for the ride home. Back at the St. Mary's dock, everyone thanks me for organizing the trip and we go our separate ways to return to our homes. I think everyone really enjoyed the weekend.

Fort King George (McIntosh County, Georgia)

 

I have organized a camping trip on Cumberland Island this weekend and posted it as an event on the Meetup that I often lead hikes for. As it's a long drive to the southern end of Georgia and we have to catch a ferry over to the island, I drove to Savannah and spent the night there last night. This morning, I have to finish the drive and make my way to St. Mary's, but as I have some extra time before the ferry departs, I decided to check out the historical site of Fort King George.

This fort was built in 1721 by the British, as the southernmost safeguard against the Spanish. It is situated on what is now known as the Darien River, which sneaks through the salt marshes of this part of the country. From what I've read, life was miserable at this post. Between insects, unbearable humidity, and constant flooding, the inhabitants of the fort lost 140 of their numbers without ever having seen battle.

The state of Georgia has reconstructed the fort to the original specifications and it now serves as a historic site. It includes replica canon batteries, the bunkhouse, main headquarters, blacksmith, bakery, and even the original mote that surrounded the fortification. As I walk around the facility, I'm amazed at how much detail was put into this recreation. I also try to put myself in the place of those British soldiers that lived in this most remote of outposts. It's really a wonderful site and I would encourage anyone to check it out.

Appalachian Trail - Hogpen Gap to Neels Gap/Walasi Yi + (White County, Georgia)

 

I'm taking advantage of the President's Day holiday to continue my quest to hike all sections of the Georgia portion of the Appalachian Trail. Today, I'm going to knock out a pretty tough section and as I have been doing for most of these hikes, I posted it as an event on the Meetup group that I occasionally lead hikes for. Four other brave souls decided to join me. We'll be starting at Hogpen Gap and hiking southbound (actually west directionally) along the AT. We'll pass through the old stone hostel (now a store) known as Walasi Yi at Neels Gap and continue the climb up Blood Mountain until we reach the junction with the Byron Reese Trail. At that point, we'll turn around and retrace our steps back to the cars.

It's a cold, windy morning at Hogpen Gap. I arrived about twenty minutes before the start of the hike and the others start showing up shortly thereafter. We do our customary round of introductions and I go over the plan with everyone. I make sure they are aware, both through the description I posted for the event and through my verbal description to them now, of what they are getting themselves into. Everyone claims to be good to go.

We hit the trail and immediately start a steep incline and then back down the other side, which is even steeper toward Tesnatee Gap. That climb back up is going to be challenging on the way back. The air temperature is around 28° and depending on our position on the mountainside, the winds might blow up to 30-40 mph, which makes for a frigid start. The icicles dangling from exposed rock faces attest to the cold. There are also many examples of what I've termed "ice strands" on the ground along the trail. These are small filaments of ice that have frozen into some that looks like a hair brush. I assume they form as water droplets are blown from the ground and frozen in mid-air, but I'm no expert. They are quite pretty though.

From the parking area at Tesnatee Gap, we begin the ascent of Cowrock Mountain and stop for a nice view once we reach the top. From here, we can see far off into the distance with the Southern Appalachian range filling the frame all the way to the horizon. It's pretty stunning. Already though, these steep climbs are starting to get to some of my hikers and a couple of them start falling behind a bit. Hopefully, they'll catch up.

During the next four miles or so, the trail undulates the steep ups and downs of the ridge, until eventually dropping us out at Walasi Yi. This stone structure was built in the 1930's by a logging company and has been used for many functions over the decades. Currently, it serves as hostel and resupply store for AT through-hikers. We decide to stop here for lunch, as it provides a wind break for us. We also take time to visit the store. I didn't really need to buy anything, but I'm here and wanted to see what it was all about. 

After a short break, we begin the hike up Blood Mountain, the highest point on the Georgia AT and sixth highest peak in Georgia. I have summited Blood Mountain by means of all existing trails, including from the Byron Reese Trailhead, which is about a half-mile up the road from here. Unfortunately, there is a small section of the AT between Walasi Yi and the junction of that trail with the AT that I had not previously hiked. So, this was my best opportunity to knock this small section out. Everyone was on board with this plan when we started, but one of the ladies that was hiking was struggling to keep up a little bit and decided to turn back from the store. We wished her well.

The rest of us began the ascent. It's only about mile up and back, but it's fairly steep. We knock it out pretty quickly though and then start on the return journey. We're all pretty tired by this point, but as a joke, I tell the others that they are welcome to summit Blood Mountain if they want, but that I won't be waiting for them. My comment gets a couple of laughs.

Our hike back is fairly uneventful, though the other gentleman that was hiking with us fell far behind and raised some concern. I explained to the others that I wouldn't leave the trailhead parking area until either he had made it back or I had called for help. That last climb was very challenging as expected and it tore all of us up pretty well. Arriving back at the parking area, we ended up with 15.1 miles and nearly 3,900 ft of elevation gain and loss. This was definitely a butt-kicker, but I'm glad to have it done.

The others thank me for organizing and start their drives home. I hop in my car and begin to listen to an audio book while I wait for the last gentleman. I would have probably started hiking back to look for him, but my legs are shot at this point. After about twenty minutes, he showed up. Apparently, he decided to road walk around the mountain from Tesnatte Gap to here to save time. He thanks me for waiting for him and check to make sure he's okay before departing. Now, to head home and relax.

Arabia Mountain Championship Hike (DeKalb County, Georgia)

Originally, I was planning to run a 5k this morning, but a couple of days ago, I saw a posting that the Arabia Mountain Rangers were hosting a Championship Hike themed after the NFL's Superbowl, which takes place tomorrow. As I'm training for some very big hikes later this year, the appeal of hiking 20 miles instead of running just over 3 seems obvious.

I arrived at the designated meeting area, Wilburn Farm, to something a bit unexpected. In the field near where I parked my car, there were a number of middle-aged and some elderly people in a standing in a circle and sharing their memories of a man named Tyrone. As I would later learn, Tyrone had been a ranger at Arabia Mountain for many years and had been an inspiration to many of these individuals to start their interest in hiking. He passed away in December and the other rangers had organized this celebration of life just before the planned hike. I felt a little out of place, as I did not know the man, but from all of the stories, he seemed like a wonderful human being.

While the start time was listed as 9:00 am, we didn't actually get moving until almost 9:30 am and then at a pretty slow pace. Since I'm in this for the miles, I moved to the front and began pushing the pace a bit. After walking a couple hundred yards up the road from the retired farmhouse, we dove east into the woods along what seemed nothing more than a game trail. The rangers seemed to know where they were going though and soon we came a cross a small trickle of a creek that seemed to disappear into the ground at one point. The ranger pointed out a large cracked boulder and encouraged us to move closer to it. Once there, it was easy to hear the water running through and beneath the feature, known as Melody Rock. The water came back out and continued down the hillside through the later winter ground cover.

From there, we made our way across several granite slicks, which this entire area is known for. We had to be a little cautious as the morning dew makes this granite somewhat treacherous to walk on, but we made it without incident. After about a mile, we walked across the dam forming Arabia Lake and then north to another retired farmhouse now owned by the National Heritage Area. At this point, the rangers switched and the original organizer, an enthusiastic young man, took over the lead spot and we made our way first further north and then east across a large open field, finally hitting the paved paths alongside Klondike Road. 

I had mentioned our slow pacing and the impossibility of hitting the 20-mile goal by the designated 4:00 pm end time. He was patient and suggested that we would move faster now that we're on the pavement. I wasn't trying to be a pain about it, but as I had changed my plans specifically to do what was advertised, I wanted to do my best to reach the goal.

We followed the path all the way to the Nature Center, where we took a short break and allowed hikers to use the restroom and refill their water. Though it was only supposed to be a five minute break, it turned into more like fifteen minutes, again adding to my frustration. Soon though were were once again moving and now headed the wooded northern end of Arabia Mountain itself. We kept a pretty good pace through the woods and soon ended up on the granite outcropping, where we had to be cautious with our steps so as not to crush the sprouting diamorpha smallii, an endangered small red plant that this area is known for. 

Walking up to the shallow summit of the short mountain, we paused for a few minutes to take in the view, before heading further east to circle around Mountain Lake. Leaving the granite on our way to the lake, we encountered an abandoned community in the woods, with the foundations and chimneys of at least two long-forgotten homes remaining. There is also a well dug near one of the houses, which the rangers have covered with branches in an attempt to keep anyone from falling in. Though little is know about who and when these houses were built and occupied, it is assumed that this area was once cleared and that quarry workers and their families resided here back in the late 1800's. I do enjoy coming across things like this.

After circling the lake, we climbed up somewhat steep eastern slope to the top of Bradley Mountain, which is the highest point of the trip. Again, we took far too long four our break and I began to have substantial doubt that we would be able to finish the hike. Though the views were beautiful and I always enjoy the barren granite desert that is this area, I was ready to move. We pushed on and crossed back over the road and made our way towards Wilburn Farm, the starting area. The rangers plan was to crisscross the Heritage Area through a series of loops, returning to the area we parked every five or so miles. This would give those unable or uninterested in continuing a chance to depart. 

Though, I really wanted to continue and finish the entire twenty miles it was already almost 3:00 pm and we had only hiked 11 miles. As I have other plans this evening and need to get cleaned up beforehand, I explained my situation to the ranger and thanked him for organizing. He suggested that he had misjudged a few things and that next year he may organize this as two sperate events, a challenging hike that holds to the pace and a more leisurely hike. I thought that was a great plan and with that too my leave. 

St Phillips Island - Turner House Expedition (Beaufort County, South Carolina)

 I'm spending a couple of days with the Coastal Expeditions crew at the house built by Ted Turner on St. Phillips Island, which is now part of South Carolina's Hunting Island State Park. I've been on two previous trips with this organization and while they have been incredibly professional and the trips were both great, some incontrollable event on each required drastic changes to the plan. Hopefully, that won't be the case this weekend. 

I drove down from the Atlanta area last night and stayed at a nearby hotel. After checking out the nearby Fort Fremont, I headed over to the meeting place. Once I checked in and took my gear out to the boat, I met several of the other participants and we began chatting. It's a cold, wet morning and while it isn't actually raining, the dense fog has left condensation on nearly everything. Once the last participant arrives, we walk back out to the boat and our captain begins to ferry us to the island. 

The boat ride over is wet and cold, but we have all brought layers and stay warm enough. Along the way, we would normally be treated to views of the salt marshes and perhaps some wildlife, but today the fog is too thick. Luckily, our captain knows the route very well and we have no problems, though he is surprised to encounter a barge with some heavy construction equipment being pushed through the fog by a small tug boat. We easily avoid the other craft. After about 45-minutes, we shoot inland on a small creek and shortly thereafter arrive at the dock.

Once we move our gear from the boat to the truck, we step aboard a open-air people mover that will be towed by the truck and we're soon being ferried through the undeveloped island towards the Turner House. As with all of these barrier islands, there is a lot beauty here. Various types of palmettos rise from the ground under a canopy of live oaks and magnolia trees adorned with dangling Spanish moss. Numerous bird varieties dart to-and-fro above our heads while filling the air with their chirps and songs. 

After about 25-minutes, we arrive at the house. While it's a large structure, it's not overly gaudy and looks like it will suit us quite well. As we meet the rest of the crew that will be with us this weekend, we are lead into the kitchen and dining room where a lunch of grilled cheese and tomato soup has been thoughtfully prepared for us. During lunch, we are given our room assignments. Most of the clients on this trip are elderly couples. Only myself and one other elderly lady are alone. The crew asks if I would mind staying in the caretaker's house just across the yard. I would have the entire dwelling to myself and it's accommodations are similar to the main house. I gladly accept and after finishing my sandwich carry my gear over to my room.

Having given us a little time to settle into our weekend quarters, we reconvene for a hike along the beach a bit into the island's interior. It's an especially low tide today and we are able to walk way out onto areas that would normally be under water. As we walk and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean roll several yards from us, our guides tell us of the history of the island and point out various wildlife species that we encounter. They are all very knowledgeable and it's a great experience. 

The hike was about 4.5 miles and included some of the inland trails, but before too long, we're back at the house. The crew prepares some appetizers for us while they begin to fix dinner. The rest of us sit in the living room or on the expansive deck and just get to know each other a bit. Everyone here seems very nice and it's interesting to discuss our collective travels.

With dinner prepared, we head into the dining room to enjoy some pulled pork barbeque ,mac 'n cheese, collard greens, and other fixin's. It's all quite delicious. During our meal, our captain, explains the agenda for tomorrow, which will begin with an optional sunrise viewing and then campfire coffee. The fog is supposed to clear tomorrow and he has a plan to take us back out on the boat and circumnavigate the small island.

After dinner, we head out to the fire for a bit before turning in. I make my short walk over to the other house and decide to try and sleep in my sleeping bag on the large hammock on the deck. It's comfortable enough and I think I would really have to work at it to fall out, but every time I toss and turn, I get the sensation of falling and it wakes me from my half-conscious state. About an hour of that is all I can take, I give up and head inside to the bed.

Waking early, I dress and head out to see the sunrise. It's cool this morning, but the fog has left us and it should be beautiful way to start the day. A short dock stretches out into the water about halfway between the caretaker's house and the main house, and seems a great spot to welcome the sun. The color scheme is fantastic as the glowing orange star slowly rises above the horizon and I feel renewed.

For breakfast, we are offered biscuits and gravy (though more sausage than gravy), pimento cheese grits, pancakes, fresh fruit, and a few other items. It's all very good and we fill up. After breakfast, we're offered a few minutes to freshen up and then we reconvene near the house and are transported back to the dock via six-seat golf carts. We walk back onto the boat and are soon making our way around the island.

The weather is much better today and we're offered expansive views of this coastal environment. Along the way, we see a large group of white pelicans sunning themselves on a sandbar in the distance. I use the zoom of my phone's camera to get the best picture I can, but it's still not great. 

Further along, we encounter a number of dolphins. Some of them even want to surf the wake of the boat as we race south around the island. The captain obliges them and three or four of them follow us a good distance leaping through the waves created by the boat. These animals are so fast in the water. It's amazing!

The captain takes around the southern tip of neighboring Bay Point Island and then north into the salt marshes to complete our trip around the island. At one point, we encountered a large pod of dolphins in a shallow bay. We cut the engines and just watched them for a few minutes. Such beautiful creatures.

Back at the dock, we are treated to an oyster roast and chili. These guys take really good care of us. I'm not the biggest fan of roasted oysters, as I don't think they have much flavor, but even I enjoy a few of them. Some of the others in the group, who are from the region, think of this as a feast and tear through one cluster after the next. Good times are had by all.

After our feast, we start hiking back towards the house on the Long Pond Trail. While this is the longest hiking trail on the island, it still only visits a small percentage of the overall environment. We are treated to an education by the captain, who also serves as a naturalist, as we make our way back. I've been a little disappointed to not see any alligators on this trip so far and no sooner had that thought entered my head, do we see our one and only example the whole weekend. Along the trail and sitting alongside a murky puddle, a gator maybe four-feet long is out sunning himself. I'm sure he's nervous with all of these people so near him, but he shows no sign of flinching. We take our pictures and make our way back to the house. Total distance was about 2.9 miles for this hike.

Prior to dinner, we head out to enjoy the sunset, which turns the sky and wispy clouds to the southwest into a fire in the sky, complete with the silhouette of palm trees. Dinner tonight consists of a low country boil, which we enjoy out on the deck. Everyone seems to be having a great time and we discuss the day's sitings and events. It's been a great day.

After dinner and enjoying the firepit for a while, I head back to the caretakers house and turn in. It's hard to believe that our weekend is almost over, but tomorrow, we will be heading back to the mainland and reality. 

I decide to sleep in a bit today and don't head over to the main house until it's nearly time for breakfast. I did go ahead and strip my bed though and pack my bags to prepare for our departure. Breakfast is similar to yesterday and we all discuss how much we've enjoyed the trip. 

We load our bags into the truck and then enjoy one last hike on the Half-way Trail. Unfortunately, I have to be on a conference call related to a big trip I'm doing later this year during the hike and miss most of the education and comradery. The hike is beautiful though and we snuck in another 3 miles.

With our expedition complete, we load back into the people mover and are transported back to the dock and boat, before launching and making. Along the way, we are treated to a dish called 'chicken bog' for lunch. It's pretty good and almost requires a hot sauce to be dashed over the top of it. It's actually pretty good. Arriving back at our original departure point, we say our goodbyes and thank Coastal Expeditions for a fantastic weekend. It really was great and I hop to do something like this again at some point.

Fort Fremont (Beaufort County, South Carolina)

 

I'm near Beaufort, SC this weekend to spend some time on one of the barrier islands. As I'm not meeting with my group until a little later this morning, I decided to drive to nearby Fort Fremont. This remnant of the Spanish-American War era was built in 1899 and has been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

It's only a twenty or so minute drive from my hotel to the fort and once I arrived, I parked the car and explored the ground around the fort on foot. A nice footpath has been installed that offers nice views of what remains of the facility. It's essentially a series of concrete bunkers with gun batteries sitting on top of them. The guns have long since been removed, but it's obvious where they once rested. Climbing to the top of the fortification, one can look out onto Port Royal Sound, which had been a important strategic inlet.

As time for me to leave approaches, I start to head back to the car. I always find it fascinating to visit these historic locations and while the fort was never involved in any significant battle, it's still a interesting to think of the men that were stationed here and their dedication to defending our nation.

Harbins Park (Gwinnett County, Georgia)

 

We've had a couple of rare winter storm events come through the area over the last couple of weeks and it's prevented me from getting out on the trails too much, but I really need to get back to it. I have a lot of training to do for some big upcoming trips. I decided to join the Meetup today to hike around nearby Harbins Park, which is only twenty or so minutes from my house. I've hiked here before and wasn't really a fan, but today, it's more about the exercise than the site-seeing.

After pulling into the parking lot, I quickly found the group. We did our traditional round of introductions and quickly hit the trail, stopping soon after to examine the overgrown Shady Grove Cemetery. I really know nothing about the cemetery, but it's not well maintained and only has a few headstones rising from the ground. After a few minutes, we move on. 

The trails here are about as I remember them and much like many other parks in Georgia - trails cut just for the sake of cutting trails. I really prefer trails that lead to something: a lake, a summit, a waterfall, etc. That is my only real complaint about this place. That said, they are well maintained and we're able to hold a good pace. I enjoy numerous conversations as we make our way through the woods.

As we make our way through woods along this winding path, we encounter quite a few mountain bikers, but all are friendly and cautious as they pass our large group. Eventually, we reach a long spanning bridge built over some marshlands. Today's leader mentions that the bridge is only a couple of years old and that the trail connects to the local Tribble Mill Park. We won't be going that far today, but it's good to know.

We take a couple of minutes on the bridge for snacks and pictures and then turn around and head back into the woods. A short time later, someone spots an armadillo. I personally didn't see it, but I know they are around. Soon, we begin making our way back towards the parking and spot a number of whitetail deer grazing. It's always refreshing to see these beautiful and timid animals. 

Finally reaching the cars, many of us agree to meet up at a nearby bar & grill. We say goodbye to those that won't be joining. It was a pleasant hike with great weather and great company. I managed to get in about 8.3 miles, but I really need to start doing more. It's a start though.

Len Foote Hike Inn Loop (Dawson County, Georgia)

 

In an effort to keep the momentum going, I decided to hike to and stay at the famous Len Foote Hike Inn for this first weekend of the new year. Unlike last year though, I posted this as an event on the Meetup I occasionally lead hikes for, explaining that attendees would need to secure lodging on their own at the inn if they wished to participate. I've always wanted to stay at the inn when there is snow on the ground, but I've never timed it correctly and based on the forecast, I don't think this year will fair any better. We're expecting cold temperatures, but no precipitation until later tomorrow afternoon.

Planning to depart our meeting place at the top of Amicalola Falls promptly at 1:00 PM, I arrived at the park and checked in with the Inn well before that. When I reached the parking area at the top of the falls, I was greeted by a friend from the hiking group that had signed up, as well as one other woman. This other woman was introduced to me and we began chatting. She was planning to do the hike, but due to other obligations would not be spending the night at the inn and would return on her own. Fine by me. While we waited for the appointed start time, we walked part of the way down the steps and took a slightly different view of the waterfall, which is the tallest in Georgia. 

Getting close to our departure time, we walked back to the parking area and were joined by another gentleman who had signed and whom I've hiked with before. As we had all had a chance to learn each other's names in these few minutes leading up to the start time and as no no one else had shown up, started our hike right on time, as I always like to do. 

The four of us began making our way up the hillside along the Len Foot Hike Inn Trail. This forms the eastern side of the full loop we will be making. After spending the night at the inn, we'll return on the other part of the loop, known as the AT Approach Trail, as it leads from Amicalola Falls to the official southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

We made great time and arrived at the inn around 3:00pm. Our fourth member had turned back just before the final push as she didn't want to be hiking in the dark. The remaining three members of our party each checked in and agreed to meet for the tour at 5:00pm. Leading up to that time, I enjoyed a cup of hot chocolate in the dining area and then took a quick shower. One of the charms of this inn is the ability to take a hot (well, warm) shower in the middle of the woods. I'm an avid backpacker and perfectly fine with going a few days without one if necessary, but if a shower is a available, I'm going to take full advantage of it.

Meeting in the toasty warm lobby just before 5:00pm along with many other guests of the inn, our host took us on a short tour of the facility. I've done this tour each time I've stayed at the inn, but I've always enjoyed it. The inn is owned by the state of Georgia, but managed by a non-profit. They have gained much notoriety and even some awards over the years for their environmentally friendly practices. 

After the tour, we head to the main dining hall, where we are joined by all guests. A bell rings out to signal dinner time and we sit down to enjoy a warm meal. On the menu tonight is turkey breast, mixed vegetables, and wild rice with a blueberry cobbler for desert. It's a hearty meal and quite delicious. Our group begins chatting with other folks sitting nearby during our meal and we all comment about how magical this place is. The Len Foot Hike Inn is truly one of my favorite places in the state.

As dinner concludes, some of us head down to the sun room and enjoy conversation around the wood burning stove while some groups play board games, assemble puzzles, or just read a book. It's a pleasant way to spend an evening among like-minded adventurers. Around 8:30pm though, I decided to head back to my room and listen to an audio book I had started on the drive up. Walking between the buildings on a cold night like this can be chilly, but with a warm room and blankets to crawl under awaiting me, it shouldn't alter my great mood.

Listening to the audio book for only a short time, I decided to cut the lights and try to fall asleep before too long and did with no effort. Though unusual for me, I had to use the restroom a couple of times during the night. Unlike at home, this requires me to get dressed and walk back outside to the bathhouse and the cold air hitting my face was an unpleasant reminder of the time of night. It must have been that cup of coffee I had with dinner. I almost never drink coffee.

I got up just before sunrise, got fully dressed and walked out to the Star Lounge to watch the magnificent dawning of a new day. Many others were already here and we all snapped photos while sipping our morning coffee as our mother star broke through an array of orange an pink clouds to bring light to our part of the world once more. Truly magnificent.

After a hearty break fast of bacon, eggs, and grits, I head back to my room, strip my sheets, and finish packing my bag. I met up with my hiking mates in the lobby and began our hike back around 9:30am. It's a bit colder this morning and I hiked with my gloves on for a bit, before the activity warmed me enough to not notice the frigid air. There is weather on the way and the cloudy skies confirm this, but hopefully, we can get back before it hits. 

We make great time and deal with few light drizzly periods on our way back, but nothing significant. The AT Approach Trail is just slightly longer and more challenging than it's counterpart on the other side of the loop, but that's okay, I wanted a good workout this morning. My friends seem to be managing well and in what seems like no time at all, we've made it back to our cars. We say our goodbyes and drive off into a new day. Total distance hiked over the two days was 9.9 glorious miles.

First Day Hike: Falls to Farm (White County, Georgia)

 

It's the dawn of a new year and I want to start it out right with some good trail miles. Many of the Georgia State Parks offer "first day hikes", but I decided to repeat one I did two years ago and hike from "Falls to Farm". This 11ish mile supported hike will take me from Anna Ruby Falls through the streets of Helen, GA and all the way to Hardman Farm. It was a great experience when I did it in 2023 and hopefully, the 2025 edition will be the same.

I woke early and drove mostly in the dark to the check-in at Hardman Farm. The roads were barren, as most people were probably up celebrating into the wee hours. Arriving at the parking area, I easily found a spot and walked down the stairs to the visitor center, where volunteers checked me in and explained the itinerary of the morning.

The shuttles would take all hikers from here to Anna Ruby Falls visitor's center around 8:15 and from there we would begin our hike. Support stations would be available at Unicoi State Park and just outside the Bierhalle in Helen. Upon finishing the hike back here at the Hardman Farm, we would be greeted by a warm bowl of chili with all the fixins. Sounds like a wonderful plan to me. 

The ride to the falls was uneventful and a young college student sat next to me. We chatted about the hike. Once we arrived, I striped off my puffy jacket and stood for a group picture. It's cold this morning, but I know I would be burning up if I kept that jacket on. The 'be bold; start cold' has served me well in the past. As I started up the paved path to the water fall, the young man held my pace and we continued our conversation along the way. Reaching the falls, I stopped for a couple of pictures and then made the turn and my way up to the Smith Creek Trail, which would lead down to Unicoi State Park. 

As usual, I kept a good pace and passed a few hikers along the way. It's great to be out here this morning. The air is brisk, but renewing. And though, I was a bit cold when I started out, I soon feel good about my decision to pack the jacket into my backpack. 

This section of the trail is pretty uneventful, though it is gorgeous with just a touch of morning frost. The path crosses a couple of small streams that empty into Smith Creek below. The first of these requires a little bit of rock hopping, but nothing terribly difficult and everyone seems to make it without any wet shoes or worse. 

At one point, I miss a switchback and continue further down the trail, which has been worn pretty well. I suspect others have made that same mistake, but before long, I realize my mistake and turn back. Either way would have gotten me to the park, but I had might as well stick with the planned route. 

Arriving at Unicoi, we're greeted by more volunteers who offer us water and granola bars. I seem to remember this stop having breakfast sandwiches two years ago, but that could be just a wishful memory. I gratefully take a bar and a sip of water. The young man that had been hiking with me seems to have been taxed by my pace and wants to stay here and rest for a few minutes. I wish him well and continue the hike, having only stopped for a minute or two.

Continuing through the park along some of the roads, we soon hit the start of the Unicoi to Helen trail, which will take us through the woods and into the streets of Helen, GA, which is a quaint little Bavarian-inspired hamlet famous for it's Oktoberfest celebration. The trails through here are very easy and I make pretty quick work of the miles involved. 

Before long, I've reached Helen and the path continues through the streets. As I pass the Bierhalle, I ask the volunteers manning this second support station if there is a restroom nearby. The point me to a public park just ahead and once I reach it, I take a moment to relieve myself. From here, it will be a road and paved path walk the rest of the way to Hardman Farm. There are a few people out on the streets this morning breathing the fresh air of a near year. It's encouraging to see this much activity.

Arriving at the farm, I'm greeted by even more volunteers and congratulated on my speed. I was among the first five to complete the 10.8 mile hike and did so in about three-and-a-half hours. I wasn't trying to race anyone, but I did want to get a pretty good workout from the event. 

As I enjoy my bowl of chili, I begin a conversation with a nice woman about the hike and other similar events. The chili is delicious and most welcomed after a good hike. The volunteers explain that we are a welcome to join a guided tour of the main house of the farm, but as it will be take nearly an hour, neither I nor my new friend want to commit to that much time and instead decide just to walk over and view the house from the outside on our own. We chat along the way and compare notes from the hike before saying our goodbyes and returning to the parking area. 

Just as last time, this was a wonderful event and I'm glad I started the new year off this way. The weather was a bit chilly, but overall great for something like this. Now, as I begin my journey into a new year, I can only hope for good health and great adventure. I wish the same for you.