Hiking!

We were able to take two nice hikes while in TN, despite the crummy weather. Tuesday was the only semi-nice day, and we intended to drive to Newfound Gap to see the leaves and scenery. Apparently almost everyone on the East coast had the same idea and traffic was badly backed up. So we drove out to Cosby and hiked to Hen Wallow Falls. It was almost 4 1/2 miles round trip, and the trail was very muddy because of all the rain the area has had recently. There were some interesting rock formations along the way, and we did get some nice views.

The second hike was on Friday, which was supposed to be a nice day but turned out to be crummy all day. We went to Alum Cave Bluffs, which isn't really a cave, but some rock outcroppings. It was misty rain, and damp, which made it seem colder than it really was. I started out bundled up pretty well, and kept shedding layers along the way.

Someone offered to take a picture along the trail for us. It was a very bad hair day!


This was a tunnel we had to go through. There are steps carved out of the stone, and cables bolted into the wall to hold on to. Thank goodness those cables were there, as the steps were very steep and slippery!

The last time we were on this trail was about 30 years ago, with Steve's brother Gerry and his wife. It was winter and the trail was completely iced over. We were too dumb to be afraid, I guess, but I sure wouldn't attempt that now!

In spite of the weather, we had a nice time and it makes us appreciate all the wonderful weather we have had in trips past!