Today, a group of hikers meets at JWSP Cabin Office (24921 Alabama Hwy 101) for a little over the 2-mile hike.
We followed in our cars to the hiking spot "The Multi-purpose Hiking Trail" with park rangers Sam and David.
The trail is between Wheeler Dam and Fishmans Resort camping and lodge. It is a scenic loop that runs along the Tennessee River and Big Nance Creek.
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Bathhouse |
We saw several historic ruins of the 1930s, a bathhouse/restrooms.
We saw a couple of overgrown Chimneys and Picnic Tables, once used by the people living here during the building of TVA's Wheeler Dam.
We also saw a collapsed viewing area that overlooks the Tennessee River. The rangers said they hoped to get a grant to restore the viewing area.
We stopped about midway for a group picture. (The ranger David took our picture with his cell phone and said he would email everyone a copy; I have not received mine yet)
This spot overlooking Big Nance Creek is where the group stopped for a picture.
We saw several different kinds of hardwood trees, oak, and hickory.
We saw a variety of wild mushrooms & berries that feed the animals that are in the park. We saw signs of deer in the soft mud and could hear the many different sounds of Alabama's songbirds.
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Open Pit |
We also saw a large open grill/pit used to cook outdoor meals for a large group, overgrown with a tree growing in the middle.
It was a very overcast day with a chance of rain and snow. The hike began at noon and ended around 2:30 PM.
It began to sprinkle as we were leaving.
TVA is planning to build a powerhouse to feed the growing community. Hopefully, they will not destroy too much of the walking forest area.
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Mushrooms on log |
Everyone received an "I hiked Alabama State Parks New Year's Day."
The first-day hike scheduled for Jan 1, 2022, was canceled because of inclement weather. (High winds and threatening tornadoes) and rescheduled for Jan 15, 2022.
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Group of hikers |
A copy of the group was sent to everyone from Sam and David. We had three dogs, 10 people, plus two park rangers. (One not showing took the picture)