Wednesday Morning at Pine Log Creek Trail

I love this trail, so let's try it on a week-day morning at a little slower pace than some of the other Pine Log Creek trails we've done.  The first part of the hike (West loop) is the most challenging, with the greatest elevation change - - so we'll keep things at a moderate pace.  Even though the pace will be moderate, this is NOT a beginner hike!  The elevation change will get our hearts a' pumpin'. 

The trail features a 4.7 mile path crossing seven rustic footbridges over Pine Log Creek. From two overlooks, hikers can view Pine Log Mountain - one of the highest elevations in Bartow County's Appalachian foothills - and the site of the Pine Log Cherokee Indian Village. The trail system includes two loops east and west and is rated moderate. Although some of the terrain is rugged there is only one significantly long climb, with an elevation gain of about 420 feet. The eastern loop takes hikers by an early CCC quarry pond for picturesque views.  (We added extra time on the trail so that we could take our time at the pond for photos, and a light snack.)

For those who would like to join us, we'll be stopping in Cartersville for lunch on the way home at SWheat Market Deli - - a fabulous little restaurant that features a variety of organic meals (with vegetarian options) that have garnered a 5-start rating from Yelp. Check out the deli menu and location at  http://www.swheatmarket.com/

The carpool will meet at the Chastain/Busbee Park and Ride at 10 am, giving us an hour to drive the 33 miles north to the trailhead.  Those going directly to the trailhead should be there by 10:45 am, so that if the carpool is on time, we can take off a bit early.  Be sure you indicate on your reservation whether or not you'll be meeting the carpool.  If you don't want to stay for lunch, you might have to drive your own car.

We will limit the number of people with dogs to 3.  If you see three people already registered with dogs, please do not add yours.  All dogs should be kept on leash for the safety of others on the trail. The trails are narrow, and dogs running to and fro prove to be a tripping hazard. 

From Exit 293 on I 75 turn right onto US 411 North. After about 7.5 miles turn right onto GA 140 East. Continue approximately 3.2 miles to Pine Log Creek Trail System parking area on left.  Go slowly!  It's easy to miss the entrance.

Caution:  Hornets  have stung people hiking on this trail recently.  If you're sensitive to stings, be sure to bring your Epi-pen and some Benadryl.

No bathroom facilities are at this location, but there are plenty of trees!

Carpoolers will have to be sure to consider whether or not you will be joining the others for lunch.  

Please share gas expenses with carpool drivers.  Approximate vehicle expense for this event is $26.40 (calculated at total miles (66) * $0.400, effective Sunday, October 16, 2011). This is based on the current gas, maintenance, and other costs of $0.400 per mile as stated by the IRS & Cars.com. This should be divided by the total number of people in the vehicle (incl driver).
For example: With 4 people in the vehicle, the expense per person on this trip would be $6.60. Alternately your carpool driver may choose to split the maintenance cost plus the actual gas cost among all in the vehicle. Your carpool driver will confirm exactly how much money they require to cover costs. Please split the actual cost among all people in the vehicle.