Wed, Dec 21 2016 - Welcome Winter! Solstice Sunrise and Cherokee Trail Hike (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Lisa Participants: Lisa, John aka Comrade, Aaron, Armin, Cynthia L, Charlie Cottingham, Andrea K, Huiling, Eme, Russ

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What a fantastic way to usher in Old Man Winter. I could not have asked for a better group of folks to celebrate the winter solstice with. After gathering in the usual spot near Confederate Hall for introductions, we swiftly made our way to the top of Stone Mountain. A cold west wind blasted us at the summit, but Armin led us to one of his favorite seats, at the base of one of the massive concrete blocks supporting the gondola towers. Completely sheltered from the wintery chill, we settled in most comfortably to watch the solstice sunrise. The sun made her glorious appearance right on time, sharing the sky with an equally stunning half moon. Earlier, we had picked up a lone hiker asking for directions to the top. Rubén fit right in with our group and easily joined the conversation, sharing tales of his adventures thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. He readily agreed when we invited him to continue hiking around the mountain.

And yep, still blustery when we emerged from our sheltered viewing spot. So we hurriedly crested the mountain and trekked down the other side into the woods. We had this trail all to ourselves with the exception of a majestic healthy buck and a few chattering squirrels. Thank you to Aaron for helping me navigate the off-the-map trails! Hitting the Cherokee Trail, we circled the mountain clockwise past the carving and the snow machines building up the "Snow Mountain" sledding hills. We paused briefly at the grist mill to regroup and grab some water, then continued past Stone Mountain Lake, Venable Lake and Howell Lake, glimpsing a couple great blue herons and mallard ducks along the way. Crossing the railroad tracks, we climbed the steep, slippery last uphill section of the Cherokee Trail and then back down to our starting point. 

All in all, a beautiful morning, a respectable workout, and wonderful cameraderie. Now... let the days get longer. Spring will be here before we know it!