Gnarled old cedars, limestone outcrops, fresh water springs and
spectacular views of the Tennessee River contribute to the unique
hiking experience that is Lady's Bluff, a TVA Small Wild Area.
A foot trail winds through a typical upland forest following the
Lick Creek Embayment out to the main body of the Tennessee River
and then loops to the top of Lady Finger Bluff. On top of the
bluff, you can stand among gnarled old cedars and see National
Migratory Wildlife Refuge on the opposite bank. In mid-October,
this whole area becomes a landing strip for thousands of migrating
ducks and geese making their annual visit to the refuge.
The Tennessee River below Lady's Bluff was once known as the
"narrows." As you can watch one barge stop downstream while another
passes through the strait, it should be easy to see how this
portion of the river got its name. Two barges cannot pass through
here as they can in other stretches of the river.
Before you leave the bluff, take a close look at the limestone
rock and you will see countless crinoids. These and other fossil
remnants of ancient marine life were deposited here thousands of
years ago when this area was covered by a shallow sea.
Round trip walking distance of Lady's Bluff trail is 2.7 miles
on gentle to moderately steep grades. The unsurfaced trail averages
two to three feet in width and is limited to pedestrians. No
horses, motorbikes, or other vehicles are permitted. Natural stone
steps are provided in steep areas and footbridges span two stream
crossings. Visitors can park in a gravel parking lot at the trail
head. Lady's Bluff, (the name most locals have for the area,) is
off of Lick Creek Road just North of Mousetail Landing State Park.
This area is also known for its picturesque red cedars. Years of
wind and exposure have twisted these cedars into the bonsai-like
forms many enjoy photographing. Enjoy your hunt and good luck!
Cache is a 50cal ammo can that was well stocked with trade items at
time of placement. Please replace cache as good or better than
found.
I might add that taking any "short cuts" off the trail only
serve to make your adventure more difficult. Stay on the trail till
you get to the cache and enjoy the views.
