2022 Jan 15, First Day Hike on Multi-Purpose Trail Wheeler Dam

Today, a group of hikers met at the JWSP Cabin Office (24921 Alabama Hwy 101) for a little over a 2-mile hike. We followed in our cars to the hiking spot, "The Multi-purpose Hiking Trail," accompanied by park rangers Sam and David. The trail is located between Wheeler Dam and Fishman's Resort, which offers camping and a lodge. It is a scenic loop that runs along the Tennessee River and Big Nance Creek.

Bathhouse 

We saw several historic ruins of the 1930s, including 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 hoped to secure 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.)

The group stopped for a picture at this spot overlooking Big Nance Creek. We saw several different kinds of hardwood trees, including oak and hickory. We saw a variety of wild mushrooms and berries that feed the park's animals. We saw signs of deer in the soft mud and could hear the many different sounds of Alabama's songbirds.

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 P.M. It started to sprinkle as we were leaving. TVA plans to build a powerhouse to meet the growing community's needs. Hopefully, they will not destroy too much of the walking forest area.

Mushrooms on a log 

Everyone received an "I hiked Alabama State Parks New Year's Day." The first-day hike, scheduled for January 1, 2022, was canceled due to inclement weather. (High winds and threatening tornadoes) and rescheduled for January 15, 2022.

Group of hikers

A copy of the group from Sam and David was sent to everyone. We had three dogs, 10 people, plus two park rangers. (One not showing took the picture)