The Invitation: You Hike Along!

Hi Everyone;

I love to hike, and the Smokey Mountains are one of my favorite places to go and enjoy mountain trails. I also love retreat settings, where people can relax together and share their lives. So, I've decided to make a dream a reality.

I'm inviting you to join me this August for some day hikes in the mountains, and camping by a mountain stream. This is a simple trip and fairly low budget. Here are a few initial details:

I will leave after church on August 16, and arrive at the park that night--hopefully in time to set-up camp before dark. I'll head back home on Saturday late morning. (Note, two tents can share a site, so the cost of $20 per site per night can be pretty cheap.)

The campground has flush toilets, water, and a nice river roaring through it. I'll get some pics up. There are no showers, but in town there are places you can shower for 5 bucks...if you are a wimp.

We will spend time together talking around fires at night. The mountains are a little cooler than surrounding other local places, so the nights should be in the 60's or even high 50's. But should not get above 70 or so for sleeping.

We will hike during the days. I have some favorites picked out for us. The biggie will be Mt. LeConte and we will decide which approach trail and which descent trail we will use according to the ability of everyone. On a clear day, it has incredible vistas and will be very fun to hike together. (I've added some pics up for you to get the idea of the beauty of the places.) I also hope we can do the Chimney Tops (a short but intense climb with an incredible finish), Abram's falls, Andrew's bald, etc.

Next post I'll talk about equipment you will need. Rest assured there will be little you don't have now.

Sign on as a follower if you want. Comment about your interest. Or you can email me and I'll post your comments for you if you want. (Click on "E-Mail me.) Let's get some conversation going here.

Peace, and get ready for the mountains!!!

David Hayes