What a beautiful day for a hike! The weather topped out at around 45 degrees and it made for some easy walking. Well, not really easy but the lack of snow and rain made it very enjoyable hiking.
Billy Sherlin and I went for a tune-up hike on Saturday. The idea was we would get some miles in, ring out our gear and just spend some time in the forest. A bit of therapy to let our minds relax and wander, I would say, as walking in the forest is simply relaxing to my mind. It doesn't go blank or stop in its tracks but rather it wanders, dreams, makes plans and settles down. Focus on thought becomes much easier and more clear. Now that was just too deep...sorry...on with the story.
The day started at the Koomer Ridge Campground and trailhead. We carried full packs to emulate the weight carried on an overnight backpacking trip. After adjusting our hiking poles, slinging our packs on our backs and locking the car (first making sure I had the key) we were off.
We traveled Rough Trail, The Sheltowee Trace and Pinch'em Tight trails for a total of 11 miles. We took our time and paced a little slower to make it easier on our knees. We took a long lunch by a creek and time seemed to stand still. The water babbled as it ran over the rocks and I filled my water bottles from the creek, filtered though a Sawyer water filter, of course. The water was cold and refreshing to the body and mind.
The hike was rough in places but the rock scrambling was fun. We walked through what appeared to be a small canyon but was actually a large opening or crack in the rocks.
I was amazed at the number of people we saw. Of the 18 or so people, 12 had backpacks and were on overnight trips. The others were day hikers and trail runners. Everybody we encountered was polite and friendly. We stopped and talked with a few but most were set on getting some miles in as we were too.
The gorge has a wide range of hiking terrains. Roots, rocks, sand and mud to name a few. Plenty of leg burning climbs that make the great vistas that much more special.
It was a good hike with a good friend on a good day and it made for a good story. I'm glad we went!
We head out this weekend for section 2 of The Sheltowee Trace Hikers Challenge, which is an overnight 24 mile trip.
It's going to be a great hike but it could be even better if you joined us!!
There are two hikes per month on the Sheltowee Trace, Team 1 and Team 2. You can join in for a weekend hike if you want. Just contact Steve Barbour at the link below. You can also contact me and I'll help you get signed up and geared up.
More info about The Sheltowee Trace Hikers Challenge can be found at http://www.sheltoweetrace.org
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