For those who like variety in their hike, this loop hike has a little bit of everything. We will start with a challenging haul up the AT (2000 feet in 3 miles) to reach the Shuckstack fire tower, with its amazing views (if you’re willing to climb the creaky stairs).

Then we’ll head down the Lost Cove Trail, where we’ll lose those 2000 feet in about the same distance. You get to practice your creek crossings on this trail – they come one right after the other and are only sometimes rock-hoppable (bring your water shoes!).

The last 5 miles are on the Lakeshore Trail – though we begin and end at about the same elevation, don’t be fooled, it's undulating hills will catch you by surprise. Hopefully, the photo ops of relics from the past will keep our minds off of those hills as we make our way back to our cars.

The hike is 12 miles. Rated difficult/challenging.

Meet at Walmart-Supercenter, far right side of the parking lot, on US 411 South in Maryville, ready to leave at 7:00am. {Drive: 96 miles RT @ 7¢/mile=$7.00 rounded}, or at the AT Trailhead Parking past Fontana Dam at 8:30am. The leader will meet the group at the AT Trailhead Parking, not the carpool site.