Explore Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park and Machine Falls Hike, Tennessee
Details
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 9:00 a.m. central time (10:00 eastern)
Hike # 1
(Rescheduled from January)
Join us at the Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park near Manchester, Tennessee as we explore approximately five (5) miles of moderate trail near the lovely cascading Duck River.
The Old Stone Fort was built by Native Americans during the Middle Woodland Period, 1,500-2,000 years ago. Native Americans used this area as a ceremonial gathering place for about 500 years then abandoned it. When European settlers arrived, it was unclear what the area had been used for and it was misnamed a "fort." https://tnstateparks.com/parks/info/old-stone-fort
Hike # 2 (Optional)
We'll hop in our cars and travel about 20 minutes to hike the 4.5 mile Machine Falls Loop trail in the Short Springs State Natural Area near Tullahoma, Tennessee. You may want to bring water shoes for creek crossings or shoes to change into afterwards. https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/na-natural-areas/natural-areas-middle-region/middle-region/na-na-short-springs.html
I'm not sure how much water will be flowing this time of year, and I don't know what time we will meet at the Machine Falls trailhead for the second hike as it depends on how much time we spend at Old Fort.
Logistics
Meet at the entrance to the Old Fort Park office/Museum at 8:00 a.m. central time. Bring lunch, water, and snacks.
By committing to this event, you acknowledge you have read the following Disclaimer: Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members can not be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant at any event. All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.