Cloudland Canyon State Park (map)
The first one filled up fast .... so we're adding a second one
Come hike the NEWEST trail
at Cloudland Canyon
BEAR CREEK TRAIL
This will be a very rugged and strenuous hike.
This hike is intended for experienced hikers,
and is
not a beginner hike.
Meeting Time: 9am
Meeting Location: Cloudland Canyon State Park, Main Parking Lot, where the overlook, interpretive center, rest room facilities, etc., is. Just stay straight on the park road and it is almost the last thing you come to.
Hiking Distance: approximately 9 miles
Hike Rating: strenuous
Hiking Time: approximately 7 hours

Due to this trail being rugged and very strenuous, in addition to 9 miles long, we will be starting early in the morning on this trek. We want to ensure that we finish in daylight, and due to the days being shorter, this will involve starting early.
There is a crossing of Bear Creek on this hike, so there is the possibility that the water will be too high to cross, and we may have to postpone this hike. There is also the chance that we will need to take off our shoes and socks to cross, so be prepared for that as well. As you can see, you will need to be adventurous to take on this hike.
Although the hike will be tough and long, we will go at a relatively slow pace to be able to accomodate the tough terrain while enjoying the beautiful scenery that this fantastic trail has to offer.
As with most hikes during the winter season, we recommend that you please bring a headlamp/flashlight as a precautionary measure just in case the sun starts to set before we are finished.
Things to Bring:
Day pack
Plenty of water
Snacks/lunch
Treking poles if you have them
Extra socks
** Just a reminder that Georgia State Parks do charge a $5/vehicle parking fee.
Hike Leader Contact Info
Greg [masked]
Rhonda [masked]
Please be sure to dress appropriately according to seasonal temperatures/weather.
NO-SHOWS: As with all Meetups, if you are a "YES" and you discover you cannot come, please be polite and change your RSVP to a "NO" as soon as possible. Don't be a "no-show". Organizers try to ensure that we don't leave anyone behind, and if we are waiting on you when you know you are not coming, it only holds up the group unnecessarily. Please be considerate.
WEATHER: As with all outdoor events, if it's raining/stormy or very poor trail conditions, we may have to cancel. If the weather is questionable, please check this event page before you leave home.

Please make every effort to arrive early or on time
so that you do not hold up the group.
I was going to go 24 to 59 to the Trenton exit to get there. I could meet people at the Cummings Highway Walmart at 8:15 then leave there by 8:25. I'd like to know who wants to carpool though, so just post if you are planning on meeting there.
That will work, too. Thanks, Michele. Anyone planning to meet at the Walmart on Cummings Highway to CARPOOL .... please either post here, or put it in your status. Thanks.
Michele, you are most correct. Quickest way from Chattanooga is 24W to 59S take 2nd exit, Trenton. Turn left and stay on 136, following signs to Cloudland Canyon SP. After you get to the top of Lookout, entrance to park is appx 1 mile on your left.
Hi Michelle,
I will meet you at the Wal Mart on Cummins Highway too.
Was a chilly and wonderful experience, communing with nature, as nature so chose the day to be. Kewl and Interesting that all the 'guys' dropped out and most all the truly adventuresome, outdoorsy ladies showed up to get 'er done despite a wind chill that had to be teetering around Zero! CONGRATULATIONS Ladies!! :-) Was enjoyable leading your hike!!
Is there going to be a Chattanooga carpool? 9am is EST correct?