Whether it is a short scenic stroll, high country views or winding through old forest growth, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that surrounds Maryville, Tennessee is where you will find some hiking clubs that will keep you moving and enjoying nature. Three active hiking clubs are located in Maryville and the activities planned by each will give you plenty of choices for an active lifestyle.
Benefits
One in three Americans enjoy the low-impact sport of hiking, making it the second choice of outdoor activity, according to a study conducted by The Washington Trails Association and the University of Washington Political Science Department. The hiking clubs in Maryville, Tennessee have the advantage of having some of the most scenic and historical hiking trails in the country. The clubs generally plan weekend hikes, from a couple of hours to an overnight backpacking experience.
Types of Hikes
The hikes all vary in degree of exercise. The Great Smokies Hiking and Adventure Group welcomes new members and plans one to two hikes per month on weekends. During the warm summer months, the group plans moonlight evening hikes. They also plan back-country adventures throughout the year that include camp-outs, hikes and cookouts. Their aim is to form a social network that enjoys exploring the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Road To Nowhere
There are roughly 900 miles of hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. That is where another Maryville club, the 900 Miler, got the name. The group encourages hiking through maintained trails for safety reasons and invites new members to hike the Road to Nowhere in the national park. The road was intended to circle the park when construction was started in the 1960's. Because of environmental damage, construction was halted. All that is left is a 1,200 foot hiking tunnel that sparks the curiosity of many hikers.
Natural Beauty
Another hiking club in Merryville enjoy more than just hiking. The Foothill Striders were formed in 1981 and continue to meet monthly and invite speakers from around the country. The group participates in several scholarship programs at local colleges and invites the active hiker, regardless of age, to join. The Foothill Striders is a non-profit organization, and organizes monthly hikes, bike rides, runs, walks, backpack trips and whitewater rafting excursions. The group's aim is enjoying a healthy lifestyle in the natural resources of East Tennessee.
Warnings
Yellow Jackets are common and can be dangerous in this area. Watch closely for them flying in and out of a hole in the ground. Stings are painful and if they swarm, you should run. Stinging Nettle is a problem in summer months. The plant will sting your legs and cause rashes. Deer ticks and dog ticks can also be dangerous since they can cause Lyme Disease.
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