Fitness hike: Cherokee Trail at Stone Mountain & Summit

Please join us for a Stefan inspired loop around the Cherokee Trail at Stone Mountain Park.  While Stefan climbs Aconcaqua (Elevation 22,841-feet) we will climb Stone Mountain (Elevation 1,686-feet).  The plan is to hike at a brisk pace around the mountain in order to get up to the summit in time for the sunset.  The direction will be counterclockwise for those who are late and want to go extra-fast to catch up or extra-slow to meet us on the way back.

We will meet near the restrooms at Confederate Hall for introductions and other pleasantries.  The hike will start promptly when the idle chatter comes to its natural conclusion and the only thing left to do is walk.....fast.....counterclockwise.....around the mountain....and then up it....and then down it.

The trail is well marked; however, it will be important that the group sticks somewhat together (especially those who are unfamiliar with the route).  There are a few turns that are easily missed if one falls behind.  As mentioned previously, the pace will be brisk and the trail can be tricky with so many exposed roots, which can slow down even the most seasoned veterans.  If you have not participated in this fitness hike with Stefan, please be objective in your hiking prowess.  We're going to try to do him proud.  However, when Stefan is away, the AOC hikers will play. 

Don't forget to bring a headlamp or some other form of illumination to guide you down the mountain after the sunset!  

There is a $10 fee to enter the park or, if you plan to use the park on more than three occasions, you can purchase an annual pass for $35.  Please note:  The free MARTA parking lot is closed!

Thank you, Andy, for providing the description for this event.  You are a great (unofficial) trip leader!

Directions: To the main entrance- From I-285 take U.S. Hwy 78 East (Snellville/Athens) exit. Travel about 7 miles and take Exit 8, the Stone Mountain Park Main Entrance. After entering the main entrance, proceed straight ahead. The road will fork at about 1 mile – stay to the right. Continue to follow the road for another mile. Confederate Hall will be on your left. The parking lot will be immediately after. We’ll meet behind Confederate Hall near the walk up trail.

If you would like to try the free public parking in Stone Mountain Village, from Hwy 78 take exit 5 and merge onto GA 10. Proceed 0.5 miles to the first exit. At the end of the ramp turn left. Drive a mile or so, past a gas station and a funeral parlor (both on your right). When you see City Hall turn left. There is a Marta park and ride on fourth street. From there it is a short walk on East Mountain Street. Enter the park through the gate and you'll be at the parking lot where we'll be meeting. The Marta parking lot is about an 8-minute walk from the park.

Additional directions and maps can be found at:
http://stonemountainpark.com/default.aspx

I will email all event participants about the status of the hike in case there is a chance of severe weather.