Hikers take in the views at Black Mountain.

By MARION MINER

For The Vista

Hopefully you have found your hiking gear, now you could start some stretching as it is time for the Fairfield Glade Hiking Group to get back on the trails.

The group’s first hike of the season is March 15 and it is near Crab Orchard.

They will start at Black Mountain, which is very familiar to most, and hike down to Cox Valley Road.  Black Mountain features an overlook with a breathtaking view of Grassy Cove (let’s wish for clear weather).  They will pass by Wynless Cave on the way down. A lot of the hike is downhill.

Bring plenty of water and bring lunch and/or snack(s) to eat on the trail.   Bring insect spray for ticks and chiggers. And don’t forget your hiking boots.

Difficulty:  At 4.5 miles this first hike of the season is rated easy.  If you are thinking of hiking with them this year, this hike is a good one to get started.

Hiking has risks and safety is a high priority on every outing.  Hazards include uneven trails, drop-offs, slippery rocks and roots, stream crossings, wildlife encounters, auto accidents, and more.  The hiking group assumes no collective or individual liability for any mishaps.

If you are new to the area and thinking of trying some hikes you are welcome to join them. You don’t have to live in Fairfield Glade to hike with the group.

You can check out their website by going to Google and typing in FFG Hiking to find our website for information on what to wear, what to bring, and what to be aware of.  You are responsible for your own safety during the hike.

There will be a sheet on the bulletin board across from the Fairfield Glade Post Office for people to sign up for each hike.

The group will depart from the parking lot closest to the 4-way stop sign in Fairfield Glade at the corner of Peavine and Stonehenge at 8 A.M. sharp.

Please be there between 7:30 A.M. and 7:45 A.M. to receive information and form carpools.

If you ride with someone else to and from the hike the policy is to reimburse the driver for gas.  The amount to reimburse the driver for this hike is $2 per person. Please have the correct amount.

A car shuttle is involved with this hike; therefore, be prepared for some wait time at both trail heads.

Spring is almost here so come and join us for some fun and exercise after a cold and inside winter.

For more information call the leader of the hike Gary Ruetenik at 337-7921.