Advanced hikers, join us for a strenuous hike to the summit of 2 mountains--Lawson Mountain and Lick Creek Mountain. This is an end-to-end shuttle hike. We will meet at the Norma Road Trailhead and carpool (15 minutes) to the Cave Branch Trailhead, on Smoky Creek Road, where the hike will begin. This first 5.5 miles of this Cumberland Trail section has two major ascents with the first being 1350 ft and a second (shorter but steeper) ascent of 840 ft to the top of Lawson Mountain. The final descent to New River and Norma Rd. is about 3 miles.
This is a tough trail, but it rewards the effort with constantly changing scenery and a true backcountry feel. The route moves through beautiful hardwood forests, open ridges, and quiet creek valleys. Much of the trail runs alongside a creek, and part of it is over a ridgeline. This trail showcases the best of this region. It has peaceful forests, tumbling mountain streams, several bridge crossings, cool rock formations, spring wildflowers, rhododendron and mountain laurel, and far-reaching views. The grand view is atop Lick Creek Mountain where we will see an expansive view eastward over the New River valley and mountains beyond. Along the way, we will enjoy stacked monoliths and maze-like rock outcrops, overlooks, and little cascades. Plus, there's always the possibility of elk sightings in this area.
Check here for the official description from Cumberland Trail Conservancy. https://cumberlandtrail.org/trail-segments/new-river-segment/lawson-mountain-section/
We plan to stay together as a group. We will take water/lunch/snack breaks, when needed, as well as a break on top of Lick Creek Mountain
- Bring plenty of water!
- Sunscreen is highly recommended (there will be some exposed areas)
- Pack lunch and snacks
- Pets on a leash are allowed and must be able to keep up with the group
Carpool
Home Depot - Lebanon, 955 South Hartmann Drive
7:00 am CDT (we need to LEAVE by 7:00am, please arrive early)
WHERE TO MEET:
**Please note: there are NO restrooms at the trailhead - there are a few gas marts (Exxon, Shell) and Family Dollar on TN-63 near Norma Rd
Norma Road Trailhead of the Cumberland Trail
36.303517, -84.385783
10am CDT (11am EDT) MEET
**We will shuttle to trailhead to begin hike
Standard Notice: All attendees participate at their own risk! Meetup organizers/leaders cannot be held liable for actions of any participant.
12.5
