Monday Ruck: Songbird Trail — Norris Dam State Park

Date & Time

Monday, June 15
Meet: 5:50 PM (Songbird Trail Parking Lot, Norris Freeway / US 441)
Step-off: 6:00 PM sharp

What is Rucking?

Rucking is weighted hiking — you carry a backpack with intentional load while moving at a steady pace over distance and terrain. It builds functional strength, mental toughness, and real-world grit. You're not running. You're moving with purpose.

The Route

Songbird Trail at Norris Dam State Park. Two-loop route on well-maintained gravel path with scenic views of the Clinch River and surrounding foothills. Flat, predictable terrain ideal for steady-paced weighted hiking.

Time Estimate

Plan for approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours total, including breaks and regroup points. This allows us to move intentionally without rushing, take care of feet, hydrate, and support each other along the way.

Pace & Distance

Distance: ~4 miles (2 loops of 2 miles each)
Elevation Gain: Minimal (flat gravel trail)
Pace: 2.8 to 3.1 miles per hour average
Terrain: Flat gravel surface

Weight Requirements

Nonconsumable weight only (water doesn't count):
Body weight 150 lbs or under: 10 lbs minimum
Body weight 151 lbs or over: 20 lbs minimum

What to Bring

Full gear list.

Essentials include:

• Day pack or ruck (comfortable fit)
• Weighted load (see above)
• 1.5+ liters of water
• Electrolyte drink or tablets (highly recommended, especially during hotter weather)
• Snacks (trail mix, bars, fruit — optional but good to have)
• Sturdy footwear
• Basic first aid kit + blister kit + sting relief wipes
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Navigation tool (map, GPS, or phone with offline maps + full battery)
• Weather-appropriate clothing

Meetup & Parking

Meet at Songbird Trail parking lot off Norris Freeway (US 441). Large parking area available. We'll access the trail from there.

Safety & Group Standards

No solo turnarounds. If you need to leave the group, someone goes with you. Period.

We move together. Stay with the group. Pace is steady and sustainable for everyone.

You're responsible for your gear, pacing, and safety. Make informed decisions about your limits.

Speak up if you're struggling. That's what the group is for.

Help your teammates. Notice who's working hard and offer support. When you focus on someone else's struggle, you shift your own. That's where real team happens.

Review Fierce Planet Adventures Safety & Terms of Participation before attending.

Who This Is For

Beginner to intermediate hikers comfortable carrying extra weight over 4 miles at a steady pace. You don't need rucking experience — but you do need to be able to handle the distance. Know your limits and be honest about them.

Cost / Donations

There is no required fee to attend. Optional donations help support Meetup platform costs and event logistics. Donations are not required and never expected.

Final Word

This is intentional. This is real. This builds capability.

Live Fiercely.