“Hike into History” is 2016 FSC Challenge

The Friends of South Cumberland (FSC) announces Hike into History, its third annual hiking challenge, with a kickoff event on Saturday, Feb. 27. 

“The Hike into History theme will highlight the interaction of people throughout history with South Cumberland State Park,” said Naullain Kendrick, project coordinator. Hike topics include Native American presence, timbering, mining, railroads, pioneers, natural history and more. 

“Hikers can see evidence of  pioneer settlements, moonshine stills, narrow-gauge railways, coal mines and logging operations,” Kendrick said. The FSC teamed with Ranger Park Greer to plan hikes that focus on the region’s rich history and explore many different areas of the sprawling 25,000 acre park, which spans portions of Franklin, Marion, Grundy and Sequatchie counties.

This year, two levels of hikes will be offered: the Discovery Series for typical hikers and the Adventurer Series for those who want a more challenging, “off-trail” experience. 

Ranger Greer is leading the Adventurer Series hikes (scheduled monthly, beginning in April), which will include rappelling, caving and archeological exploration. A $25 fee for each hike includes lunch and off-trail equipment, with proceeds benefitting the FSC. Register for any of the Adventurer Series hikes online at <www.meetup.com/Friends-of-South-Cumberland-State-Park>. This website, for the FSC MeetUp group, is free and by joining will ensure that you receive updates about both hike series.

There is no charge for the Discovery hikes, which will be scheduled throughout 2016 and will be led by rangers and FSC volunteers. Self guided information about each hike is posted to the 2016 challenge website at <www.HikeIntoHis​tory.org> for those who choose to hike on their own. Both series of history-themed hikes will be introduced at a kickoff brunch on Saturday, Feb. 27, at Dutch Maid Bakery in Tracy City, followed by a hike at Fiery Gizzard. Registration and a brunch will begin at 9:30 a.m. Organizers will present a video overview of the upcoming hikes and will answer questions. 

The cost of registration and brunch is $15 for FSC members and $20 for non-members, with an option to join FSC at the event.

At noon, a guided hike along Fiery Gizzard Creek will include a visit to the remains of a moonshine still and the Civilian Conservation Corps work camp. From noon to 3 p.m., the public is also invited to stop by the South Cumberland State Park Visitors Center on Highway 41 to see the newly renovated exhibit areas. 

“Taking on the challenge of bringing more people to see the wonders of this vast park has been rewarding,” said Kendrick. “South Cumberland State Park has so much to offer. We’re challenging you to come and experience it for yourself!”

For more information go to <www.FriendsOfSouthCumberland.org>.