First Day Hike-- Green Gorge Loop Trail on Signal Mountain

hiking with the retired guy on the first day

Thanks (Gracias) to Bart Stewart for sharing about this trail yesterday on social media. It's a new (to me) trail. I knew I wanted to get out and hike somewhere today, so trying out the trail he posted yesterday seemed the perfect idea.

It was!

The loop has several access points, 3 bridges that cross Shoals Creek, goes close by the creek for much of the hike, has a great tree canopy, and has rocks and other fun things to check out.

The gurgling of the water, the singing and chirping of birds, the fresh air and the cool breezes today made for a perfect hike for the first hike of 2025.

Additionally, we ran into someone I knew from Welcome Home of Chattanooga. We chatted for a few minutes. Then a family passed us by that I recognized, but it took a moment for me to recall their names. That's the age thing. :) There were other people on the trail, but no one else that I knew. 

Though it was 37 degrees Fahrenheit while we hiked, it was not too cold. I dressed in layers and had one of my hiking hats on.  

To be so close to homes and streets, yet have the full feel of being in nature was a true gift. How have I not heard of this trail before?!?! If I lived on the mountain, it would definitely be a go-to hike. 

There were spots where the water was so still and serene.

My favorite bridge was the first one. When we got to the other side, there was a sign that told us "no running or jumping". Thankfully, I didn't break that rule..... today. :)  Truthfully, it's not a bridge I would feel comfortable running over.... it dips. As for jumping... I see the temptation. 

I saw some really neat trees along the path. (see the photos below)

Not everyone is a nature person or one that enjoys getting out in the colder weather. 

No shame. No condemnation.

We live into our unique beings.

Below are a few links I've found for the trail:

• Map of the trail
• Seeing the Scenic City
• Green Gorge Trail-- All Trails
• Patten Park, Signal Mountain (video by Pam, the hiking nurse)

My photos from today's adventures:

first bridge-- we went over it and went counter-clockwise

plaque on rock to left of map kiosk

"Patten Park"

The Green Gorge Loop Trail allowed me to try a new trail, get into creation, breathe in some air, and enjoy the Creator. There was some good silence and solitude time too. Outdoor and nature therapy is a huge part of my being. I'm grateful to have gotten some of it in today!

May the adventures continue, 

Deb

First hike in 2023-- Raccoon Mountain

Today we started off 2023 right-- getting into the woods for a hike.

The road down to Laurel Point on Raccoon Mountain was locked, but we found parking in the overlook parking lot. 

The trail went through the woods and was covered in leaves. It opened up to a piney area for a bit. Then it opened up to the electric power tower right of way. It went back into the woods and then came out to the road that was closed off. A sign mentioned the trail was "Electric Avenue". Depending on your musical tastes and interests, you may now have a song running through your head. :) We continued on "Electric Avenue", crossing the road and going back into the woods. Now we were at the base of the rocks and the road you drive around.

We turned around a bit beyond the historical sign and headed back.

The temperature was mid 60s during our hike. The sky was clear blue, with some white puffy clouds.

There were cyclists, runners, and other walkers/hikers. There were some with dogs,  like us.

It was a great way to begin 2023!

May it be a year of being outside more!

Deb

My photos: