Cooper Gap to Starr Mountain Fire Tower (trail 119)

Cooper Gap to Starr Mountain Fire Tower
6 miles out-and-back (3 miles each way)
1464 ft ascent (~500ft/mi) - moderate if in hiking shape, strenuous if not
TN Division of Forestry - 1336 Co Rd 875, Etowah, TN
Trailhead Coordinates: 35.324°,-84.473
Map/Profile/GPS tracks - https://sartopo.com/m/MJ9U1HH

A hike with a big payoff - a spectacular view. One can see across the entire Tennessee Valley on a clear day.

This is a great training hike. "The only person you should try to be better than is who you were yesterday."

The 1464 ft ascent on this mostly-forgiving trail is a more mild than Chestnut Mountain (1836 ft), Oswald Dome (2257 ft), or Mnt. LeConte (3077 ft).

What to expect:

• Wide trails
• Spectacular view at the top
• A great workout!

What to bring:

• Hiking shoes
• Layered clothing
• Poles (optional)
• Plenty of water
• Lunch
• Snacks/a source of quick energy

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.