Two Short Hikes near Hiwassee River - and a Swim

This seems like a good opportunity to revisit a favorite hike whose turnout was affected by remnants of Hurricane Francine last September - Chestnut Mountain Bluff.

This is a limited attendance event. Sign-up = Show-up, please.

1. Gee Creek Falls Trail:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/gee-creek-trail
A pleasant 2.5 mile out-and-back hike to a small waterfall. Trail surface is relatively smooth with small rocks in places. Minimum elevation gain.

This is an easy, shady, and cooling hike that parallels Gee Creek. Bring a swimsuit to cool off in the small pool near the falls.

2. Chestnut Mountain Bluff:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/tennessee/chestnut-mountain-bluff
A moderate 1.0 mile out-and-back hike with a challenging (very steep) beginning. Views from the bluffs are outstanding!

This hidden gem is visited predominantly by locals. The trailhead can be difficult to find and parking is limited. The start of this hike is NOT FOR BEGINNERS.

For those who wish to skip the Bluff hike, we'll all re-group at the sandy beach (250 yards away) after the hike to cool off in the river. You're welcome to chill on the beach while we hike.

One or two other drivers may be needed to carpool 1.8 miles + 3 miles on forest service roads.

9:45 AM - Meet at Hiwassee Ocoee State Park Office:
404 Spring Creek Rd, Delano, TN 37325
coordinates 35.2375°,-84.5503°

10:00 - Drive 0.9 miles via the shortcut* (or 3.9 miles) to Gee Creek Falls TH
coordinates 35.2469°,-84.5403°
*Note: The shortcut requires driving across a shallow stream (<6" deep). Any 4WD vehicle can make this crossing and probably a 2WD SUV.

12:00 - Return to Hiwassee Ocoee State Park Office
stop briefly to pick up any members who wish to only hike Chestnut Mountain Bluff and/or swim at sandy beach.

12:15 - Drive 1.5 miles to Chestnut Mountain Bluff trailhead / sandy beach

Standard Notice, Disclaimer:
Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions as 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 activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possible death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant -including you- 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 a claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.