NOTE: The Rich Mountain Loop hike, a qualifying Centennial Challenge hike, was originally scheduled for January 10th, but another hike was substituted because of road closures and high water. It now replaces the Curry Mountain / Meigs Mountain hike.

From the trailhead off Cades Cove Loop Road near the entry gate, we'll go west on the Rich Mountain Loop Trail, for a clockwise loop, toward the historic John Oliver cabin (mile 1.4). After a brief stop we go north along Martha's Branch and up Tater's Ridge to Indian Grave Gap Trail (mile 3.4). The junction offers nice views of Cade's Cove, weather permitting. We follow the ridgeline northeast, past the junction with Rich Mountain Trail (mile 4.2). We'll stop for lunch at Cerulean Knob (mile ~4.5, elevation 3,686 ft.) where the Rich Mountain Fire Tower once stood. After lunch we continue east on Indian Grave Gap Trail to Crooked Arm Ridge Trail at the junction with Scott Mountain Trail (mile 6). We descend along the ridge-top, past two overlooks and Crooked Arm Falls (mile 7.9) on the way to the junction with Rich Mountain Loop Trail (mile 8.2), and back to the trailhead. Totals, 8.7 miles and 1,958 ft. climb, rated Moderate. For carpooling, meet at Kroger, 244 S. Hall Rd., Alcoa (park at the side of the building, near the SE corner), in time to leave at 8:00 am. Drive 56 miles RT [@7¢ = $3.92]. Meet at the entry gate of Cades Cove Loop Road, ready to hike at 9:00 am. Register by 6pm Jan. 23rd.

Leader: Eric Sundstrom

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.