Hiking The Wolfden Loop Trail

This trail is at the Meriwether County in Georgia which takes a 6.7-mile hike towards waterfalls, streams, and camping grounds. The whole loop is a combination of Pine Mountain Trail's 5 mile stretch and the Beaver Dam Trail's 1.7 mile hike. In the Pine Mountain Trail section, waterfalls are nestled here which make this journey worthwhile. To start the trail, set off from the Roadside Park on GA 85W and move to the northwest section where trail marker leads to a tower. Sign-in at the kiosk with a brown roof and then proceed to the footpath on the right section.

The pathway starts an easy downhill traverse to the Woflden Branch. As you proceed at around 0.7 miles the pathway leads to some moss-covered rocks which then makes a curve to the left after this. You will then emerge to Dry Falls as the pathway then moves down to the Wolfden's Branch where you will rock hop across the stream which is a tributary of Cane Creek.

Move further past the Mile Marker 22 where you will meet Csonka Falls on the right. Go straight ahead crossing rock and onto a single rail wooden footbridge. The next feature on this trail is Big Rock Falls at 1.4 miles where you will notice a huge rock formation. Proceed further ahead as trail joins the Slippery Rock Falls and notice the pathway becomes increasingly damp. The loop trail then makes an ascent to a trail marker on Bumblebee Ridge campground and then leads to a steep cliff before descending to cross Wolfden Branch.

Make a quick ascent to the top of the small knoll before crossing Cascade Branch just after the Mile Marker 21. At this point, the pathway makes a loop as the pathway makes an ascent to a set of stone steps. The trail then leads to a rock wall and onto the base of the cliff. The pathway then proceeds to the confluence of Wolfden Branch and Cascade Branch. Cross these two streams and the pathway then leads you to the Old Sawmill camping ground on your left. The trail then makes a downhill hike passing a tree named Ferney.

After passing a dam, the path curves left to make another u-turn before crossing a creek. Climb up to the top of Hogback Mountain as you enter into Mile Marker 20. Turn right and climb to Mile Marker 19 before descending to a wet-foot crossing. The trail ascends to Sassagras Hill before passing Mile Marker 18 at Rocky Point's parking area. The trail moves to a set of steps to a three-way intersection and curve right into the woods. It then leads to a ridge where it crosses GA 190 and onto the beaver pond on the left. The trail ultimately leads to a mountain stream as it finally parallels back to the Pine Mountain Trail to the kiosk trailhead.

Even the most mundane hike or camping trip can turn dangerous quickly when disaster strikes. If we have learned anything from recent flash floods and other tragedies it is that a reliable radio can save a life. We carry a variety of VHF, UHF and CB radios for sale. We also carry the more powerful 10 Meter Radios for those who feel they may need the extra broadcasting power.

Hiking in the Smokey Mountains

Whether you enjoy the outdoors, shopping, local attractions, or Hollywood trivia, there is something in the smokey mountains that will please the most picky of people. If you enjoy hiking and are looking for a fun vacation where you can enjoy the wilderness, hiking in the Smokey Mountains is a perfect choice for you. While hiking the trails in and around Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you can enjoy nature, take photographs and create lasting memories. The Smokey Mountains have over 800 miles of hiking trails in the Smokey Mountain Forest alone, and there are many trails for all levels of hikers.

No matter how experienced a hiker you are, there is a trail that will be as comfortable or as challenging as you like. Because there are so many known trails and hikes available, a trail map is always available that can tell you the difficulty of the trail as well as the important points of the trail that you may also enjoy. For those that may never have hiked in the Smokey Mountains, here are a few tips that may help you enjoy your hike all the more.

Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Trails move through different elevation levels that can make you feel warmer or cooler. Packing a light sweater as well as a rain poncho is always a safe bet as the Smokey Mountains have some of the wettest woods in the South. Often getting 90% precipitation in the higher elevations, a sudden downpour is always possible no matter the season, so be prepared.

Stay on the trail. If you are not a seasoned hiker, or even if you are and have never been to the Smokey Mountains for a hike, it is advisable by every forest ranger to stay on the trail to ensure that you do not get lost. You are easily spotted on the trail if someone has to go looking for you if you are hurt or lost. Venturing off into the woods alone is not advised as there are real forest creatures that live in the woods such as cougars, bears, and other wild animals.

Bring a camera with you. You never know what you may see that you want to capture on film and take home with you. Not only will you create memories of your hike that will last forever, taking a picture will leave nature untouched so that the next person can enjoy it as well.

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Hiking The Vickery Creek Trail Complex

This trail complex encompasses the north knoll of the Chattahoochee River which is east of South Atlanta St. Highway 9. The trail's length runs 6.5 miles on this section of the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area. The trail is exclusive for hiking where it does not go near the Chattahoochee River at all and instead explores much of the knoll. The Vickery Creek owes its name from a mixed-blood Cherokee woman named Vickery who own the property where the creek is formed.

At the north end of the parking lot on the Riverside Road, make your way to the entrance and set forth on the trail's path. Approximately 0.1 of a mile the path splits and just take the path straight ahead which leads to the bluff. The path becomes arrow which may be dangerous for young children. Take heed with the warnings posted around the vicinity. Move past this and make a right turn and then the path begins its ascent to the top of the knoll.

Marking 0.5 of a mile, the path leads you to a historic road. Follow the path north of the old Roswell Covered Bridge and continue turning right which leads you to the Roswell Mill. At the top of the ridge, the access trail meets a dead end. At this point circle around the knoll starting from the right where the pathway becomes level. At this point, the area offers several excellent views down the knoll where a gorge can be seen below.

The trail then approaches Grimes Bridge Road and makes a left turn. It then makes a series of uphill and downhill traverse where it leads you next to a map stand. At your right, there is a trail which proceeds to a footbridge that crosses the Vickery Creek and ultimately reaches the Oxbo Trail. From this junction the pathway meanders left following the route to Roswell Mill dam. Take the left section on this intersection and then make a curve to the right on a downhill path to the river.

At Vickery Creek's spillway dam, return to the top of the knoll and make a right turn. The treadway switches to a sharp descent to a covered bridge. Go further straight on this path as the trail joins the river. As you move down the footpath, a trail on the left marks the return trail. Yet, move past this for now and curve right to a switchback and then make a left turn after that. The trail ends at the creek where you can take a look at the surrounding habitat before heading back to the return trail.

No matter whether hiking, boating or camping if we have learned anything from recent tragedies its that an emergency can strike at any time. A reliable radio is simply a safety must. We carry a variety of uhf, vhf, marine and CB radios for sale. You can choose from the versatile handheld cb radio models all the way to the more powerful 10 Meter Radios

Tips For Planning a Geocaching Hiking Trip

Are you planning on spending the day or weekend hiking for geocaches? If you intend on taking a hike, you may want to start planning ahead of time and acknowledge a few important factors before heading out. These factors outlined below will help make your hiking adventure easier and will make your adventure, when the time comes, a much more memorable experience.

The primary factor you will want to take into consideration before planning a hiking trip is your health. If you have a previous or current medical condition it is best to consult your physician before making any plans. A hiking trip can be an exciting, but strenuous activity to participate in. It is advisable that you plan on hiking a trail designed for beginners to start off. Most people are able to go hiking without any health problems arising, but why take that chance?

Also, when planning a hike for geocaches, you need to factor in how long would you like to go hiking for, your physical limitations, and environmental conditions of the trail. While many people choose to go hiking just for a day, there are many more avid geocachers who partake in extended hiking trips. Luckily, there are many hiking parks that provide onsite campgrounds. For those planning a longer trip, this means you can turn your hike into a camping adventure as well.

Choosing a location you or your family are capabale of hiking is vital. Before you start planning your next trip, you may want to examine where you would like to hike. You will come to find that cities and towns all over the world have both small and large hiking trails to choose from. Be sure to make travel arrangements if you plan on hiking in a location that is far from home. Pack appropriate geocaching gear for your trip and make sure you bring a first aid kit.

Cost is another factor when planning a geocaching trip. If you are looking to do a little park caching you will find that you will be charged a small admission fee to hike on site. This fee is normally always reasonable, but it is important to to determine whether or not you can afford the fees. Be sure to count in food cost and camping gear is another added expense to your trip.

By taking the above mentioned points into consideration you will not only have a pleasant experience, but you will make sure that you stay healthy and safe as well.

Want to learn more about geocaching? If you're looking to find out all the latest geocaching news, tips, videos and more feel free to visit us at HiddenCaches for more information.

Metal Detecting Clubs

You might be tempted to think that there is little more to metal detecting than finding change at the beach or in a park, but there is a lot more to it than that. Adventure and opportunity are what metal detecting is about, with the possibility of find something that may be from centuries ago. These adventures and treasures can be yours through metal detecting club membership.

Although it is great solitary pastime, this hobby is more interesting for some when there are others around to share the excitement. In a club, you have the possibility of encountering people with an equal enthusiasm for the things you like. Your grasp of metal detecting's more effective practiced will be strengthened by being in contact with other enthusiasts. There is a wealth of information about equipment related to metal detecting, locales and methods available from the members of your club. Your future activities can be more focused by sharing stories and finds with other members.

For less than $25 or so, yearly membership in a club is available to anyone who wants to join. Otherwise, you need only follow the rules of the club to join, and anyone can join. Invariably, the metal detecting club will have a code of ethics that is strict. No trespassing is usually the number one rule, and this makes good sense. Holes that have been dug for digging up finds must be filled afterwards and the natural landscape must be respected whenever possible by not littering.

Organized outings and special targeted hunts are two of the benefits to be had from membership in a club. The security of being a part of a group is provided by this, as well as a sense of having friends with a common purpose. The research and guessing needed to determine where to aim your metal detector are already done for you by the other members of the club. It is also a big help not to have to spend time checking the need for permission nor obtaining permission to explore a given piece of property or area of public lands. Currency on the laws in your community related to metal detecting will be a priority for the club as well.

There may also be a periodic, even monthly newsletter or email sent out by the club to keep members updated on the latest organized trips, meetings and the latest secrets and tips. It is not uncommon nowadays for clubs to have an online forum for members where they can share their experiences through photos and even videos, not to mention posting comments, questions and stories of treasure hunts successful or otherwise. Some clubs may even organize events during the holidays where people can get together for some casual conversation and celebration.

Joining a club is the best way to get serious about metal detecting. The kinds of recommendations you receive from fellow members will invariably be dependable because they have no secret agenda to sell a particular metal detector, they are just promoting metal detecting itself. The whole point from the members' points of view is to create a cohesive group of metal detecting enthusiasts.

Sid Bowen was born in Mississippi and grew up with a cane fishing pole in one hand and after his family re-located to Texas, a metal detector in the other hand. He has spent countless hours on the beaches near Portland, Texas watching the surfers while listening to the beeps of his metal detector. He has condensed his experience of metal detecting clubs into an e-book "Master Metal Detecting: Modern Day Treasure Hunting At Its Finest" which can be found at his website: http://www.metaldetectingonbeaches.org/metal-detecting-clubs.

Remarkable Benefits of Hiking

Hiking or trekking is an outdoor activity that is becoming more and more popular. There are several reasons why people like to engage in this activity. However, one of the most notable motivations for hiking is it numerous advantages in terms of health. Here are several benefits of hiking:

Trekking as a Great Exercise

Everyone knows that walking is one of the best activities that you can do. Walking allows you to move most of the muscles in your body, strengthening your core. Besides that, it helps with the correct circulation in your body. The best thing about this sort of exercise is that you can set your limits and go further in terms of difficulty as you are able. This is true of hiking as well.

Remarkable Mode for Weight Loss

You really do not need to do those very heavy and strenuous workout routines in the gym. 30 minutes to an hour a day is enough, as long as it is done often. Some experts say that at least 3-4 times a week will do well. Before you hike a very long and difficult trail, you should not forget to limber up or stretch.

Preventing Detrimental Health Issues

Obesity is one of the biggest problems among Americans. This goes hand in hand with diabetes and other cardiac problems. Walking, a very simple and easy activity can combat those problems. The great thing about hiking or trekking is that this is a step higher and more complex than walking. If walking can help you, hiking definitely can work even better for you.

Being One with Nature

So many people will adore hiking so much because they will be able to feel as if they are truly one with the beauty of their natural environment. There is nothing better, after all, than breathing really fresh air and being surrounded by nature while working out.

An Inexpensive Activity

This is one of the best benefits of hiking and all activities like it. If you are to use this as your main exercise, you would not have to spend so much on going to the gym, hiring a trainer or buying expensive workout equipment. Besides that, all you need for hiking is a good pair of hiking shoes and appropriate clothing.

An Outstanding Family Affair

This is one of those activities which can be enjoyed by the whole family. If you were to bring your children, you need to plan and take all the necessary provisions. There are several sites on the internet which lists all of the hiking and camping essentials which you may need.

Like other activities, trekking or hiking does have its share of drawbacks - especially if you do not know what you are doing. It is highly important that you prepare well for this so that you will reap all of the advantages mentioned above.

There are so many benefits of hiking that all you need to do is practice. Start with simple trails first and then go more complex when your body and state of mind is ready for it. Once you have begun, you will surely enjoy everything else afterwards.

You are invited to discover more tips and resources to help you reap the benefits of hiking when you visit http://www.HikingTipsBlog.com.

Safety Tips for Bear Country

Whether you're a bear hunter, an avid backpacker, or someone who enjoys light hikes and sightseeing, it's a good idea to stay abreast of the best methods for staying safe in bear country. The following bear safety tips and gear recommendations can help keep you safe when bears may be nearby.

1. Never feed bears. This rule applies to all wild animals. Protect yourself and the bear - don't feed it, and don't use food to try to lure a bear.

2. Protect food and other scented items in bear-proof containers. Store food, toiletries, lotions, and any other scented items in bear-proof containers. Tools you may need at a moment's notice, such as guns and hunting knives, should be kept with you or in a secure location.

3. Be noisy during downtime. Noise can make a bear aware of your presence without startling it. Get*into the habit of making a lot of noise whenever you are not hunting. If you are traveling in the woods at night, have an LED lantern to both light your way and announce your presence.

4. Stand out. Brightly colored, reflective clothing can save your life by letting other hunters know that you are a human, not a bear. (Protection from hunters is another excellent reason to carry an LED lantern if you are rustling around in the woods at night.)

5. Keep Calm and Back Away Slowly. If you unexpectedly encounter a bear, you should look down (avoid eye contact), speak in low tones, slowly back away, and give the bear a chance to escape.

6. When Attacked, Get Aggressive. It is highly unlikely that a bear will attack you, but if it does happen, it's time to pull out your inner monster. Get aggressive - kick, punch, shout, and use nearby sticks and stones to fend off the bear. If you have a hunting knife, use it to defend yourself. Finally, if you do make it through the attack in one piece, you should immediately report the incident to the state police or the state office of fish and wildlife.

7. Take a Buddy. Avoid hiking, camping, or bear hunting solo; always take at least one other person with you. In case of a dangerous situation, that buddy may save your life. Of course, there are times when nature calls and you must step away from your campsite on your own; during such nighttime nature excursions, carry your LED lantern so that others may find you quickly in case you get hurt.

8. Stay Away from Bear Cubs. Oh! It's so cute and cuddly! And it looks just like your teddy bear! Maybe so, but the presence of a bear cub indicates that Mama Bear is nearby. And there's no force in nature as fierce as a parent defending its baby. Stay away from bear cubs if you want to stay safe.

9. Follow the Law. If you are hunting, know that each state has special laws regarding bear hunting. In Oregon, for instance, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) requires hunters to take the skulls of bagged bears to ODFW or approved business. Finally, keep in mind that it is illegal in most areas to hunt cubs less than a year old or sows with cubs.

For more information and tips on hiking in bear country, visit the website for Coast Products, a manufacturer of premium hunting knives, survival knives and multi-tools. Coast also has the perfect LED camping lantern, flashlight or headlamp for your next overnight trip.

East Oahu Hiking Trails

Hiking is a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy where you live or vacation. I live on Oahu. Oahu hiking trails are great because there are so many easy hikes that can be found all over the island. I live on the East side between Diamond Head and Koko Crater. This area offers a long list of options from challenging to super easy and all with great views.

Diamond Head is great for 1st time tourist or long time Hawaii natives. This Oahu hiking trail offers you amazing views of over half the islands coast line. You can see all the way to the Waianae Mountain, which is west; back around to Koko Head Crater and Hanauma Bay on the eastern tip of Oahu. They have just finished renovations so it is in great condition. You used to have to hike through unlit tunnels and stair ways, but now the entire path has some light. Don't get the wrong impression about this Oahu hiking trail though; this is not the easiest hike on the island. It is unpaved for a large portion of the hike and it has well over 100 stairs (99 of which take you straight up in succession). Bring water and good hiking shoes... no high healed slippahs please.

Another great hiking trail of Oahu is Mariner's Ridge. For this hike you have to travel into the town of Hawaii Kai. You will drive past the Hawaii Kai Post office and take your first left up to the subdivision of Mariner's Ridge. Follow this main road all the way to the top and park in the cul-de-sac. It is pretty easy to follow the path all the way to the top. Parts of this path are steep, but never get extreme. Much of this Oahu hiking trail is shaded with trees with the occasional trade wind breeze blowing through. Once you begin to reach the top you will enjoy views of Waimanalo and Kailua. If you have a clear day you can even see Chinaman's Hat just past Kaneohe or maybe get a view of Molokai and Maui.

We also like doing Koko Head crater trail. This is an old railroad track and I have heard that it is a 45 degree incline. It is steep. Wear lots of sun block and hope for a breezy day. This hike can be very hot, until you get to the top and reap the rewards of your hike. The trade winds on the top of Koko Head feel like someone turned on the A/C, finally. Going down is almost as challenging as going up. Your legs are tired and a bit shaky. There is a railroad tie bridge that has open spaces between the ties. I have seen many people crawl across. Just be careful and take a friend. This Oahu hiking trail is more advanced, so be careful and plan well. Water is a must on these Hawaii hiking trails.

More about East Side of Oahu hiking trails soon. I hope you enjoy my posts. Please feel free to leave a comment if you have questions. I love to share my limited but hopefully useful information. Aloha...

Carole Duran invites you to enjoy her articles about Hawaii and to visit her website Travel Hawaiian Islands. The URL is http://travelhawaiianislandsonline.com/. I have lived in Hawaii off and on for the last 10 years and have traveled inter-island for pleasure. I enjoy sharing places to go and love to hear of others experiences also.