Sat, Apr 11 2015 - Cohutta Wilderness Grand Tour (View Original Event Details)
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Four brave hikers embarked on a quest for extreme backpacking , starting at the Chestnut Lead Trail head. The cold winds welcomed and guided us gently through the doors of Cohutta Wilderness, warning us that the trip ahead is not an easy win. Our backpack loads were meant more for mileage than camping and the range was between 12 lbs to 28 lbs. Some left the tents at home and carried plenty of food to assist with energy replacement, while some carried more weight in order to challenge and to break some personal endurance levels.
Day one ended with a beautiful sunset and we arrived at the planned riverside camp site a little after 8 PM EST. Fast hiking and the sunshine helped us to cover 30.1 miles of trail and 25 ankle to waist deep river crossings. We made new friends at the camp site and ejoyed our dinner by the fire.The night was perfect for star gazing and the river sounds lulled us to sleep instantly.
Day two started early with the plan to up our elevation gain for almost 8 miles straight via Rough Ridge trail and such, but only after another set of deep river crossings. We crossed paths with our director of events, John LaBelle enjoying his solo hike and hoping for his selfie with a bear. Panther Creek Falls provided a perfect spot for lunch and quick recovery. Truly beautiful and refreshing also since everyone's energy went up for miles to come. We made it back to the car feeling accomplished : 32 hours, 48 miles, 50 plus river crossings with over 9000 feet of elevation gain.
So if you are at that moment in life when you are ready to part with your blankie or teddy bear, give this route a try. You will be surprised at how the river crossings will remind you of life: great moments of success require great efforts and accepting the unknown. Mara Morrison
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