Sat, Feb 19 2011 - Cohutta Wilderness backpacking - Rice Camp Trail (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): Michael Johnson Participants: Michael Johnson, Sarah Y, Marc F, Kristi, Andy Altman, Martin

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Write Up:
Thanks for joining me for a great weekend. We had a nice break from the recent winter weather, giving us a taste of the spring to come. After walking in about 4 miles to our campsite beside Jack's river, setting up camp, eating lunch and gathering firewood, we decided to hike to Jack's river falls. There was a river crossing too deep to rock hop, so we all took off our boots, and very carefully crossed. That water was cold! My feet were hot so it felt good at first, but then it turned to an ache, then numbness. I think my feet would have cramped had I been in there a little longer. Marc managed to get a little wetter than the rest of us. I think he missed those cold northern winters more than I originally thought.

Once everyone was across, we followed a great trail following Jack's river until we got to the falls. It was so nice to hang out beside the roaring mountain water flowing down that canyon.
After hiking back to camp, getting more water, eating our dinner, we had a wonderful evening sitting around the campfire sharing stories for many hours, but it seemed to go by so fast.
In the morning as we were standing around the firepit after breakfast, we decided to do some tree climbing. Always nice to start the day off with a good workout climbing Eastern Hemlock's growing on ridges over river valleys. After I came back down, Sarah decided she wanted to climb it as well. I was a bit surprised, but very much excited to have someone else around who liked to climb, so I went up with her again.

Once back at our campsite, enjoying the spring like morning beside the river, we were treated to a playful river otter swimming beside our campsite. Those otter's are so cute! I think I can speak for everyone in saying leaving that campsite was a bit harder than usual. But it was in the afternoon already, so it was time.

I enjoyed having each one of you on this trip with me, sharing your stories, and your camaraderie.
To see my pictures, click on the "click for photo album"...and
Here's a link to Kristi's pictures.
Kristi's: https://picasaweb.google.com/108371817354112677338/Backpacking_Cohuttas_RiceCampTrl?feat=email#

Thanks,
Michael Johnson

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