West perimeter-Whaley-Will Skelton Trails

The hike is between 5 and 6 miles, mostly through the woods, with rolling hills, none very steep. About 2 miles will be along the French Broad River with good views. The hike is rated as easy. We recommend shoes to wear to and from the hike plus sturdy hiking shoes, other weather appropriate clothing, a snack, a drink and a camera.

You can view the map here, or by going to www.outdoorknoxville.com, select Urban Wilderness at the top of the page and then under printable maps, Urban Wilderness South Loop. The hike will be on the trails on the side of the map along the French Broad River in the Wildlife Management Area. One of our hike trails follows the west boundary of the shaded area, West Boundary Trail, and the remainder follows the purple trails.

We will meet in the Central Baptist Church of Bearden parking lot for car-pooling and leave at 9:00 am. If you prefer you can meet us at 9:30 am at the trail head located at the parking lot at the end of McClure Lane. McClure Lane is on the left just after you pass the parking lot for Meads Quarry (see the map referred to above).

After the hike plan on stopping on the way back for a meal and refreshments, perhaps at Calhoun’s or somewhere is South Knoxville. For specific information about the hike please contact Tom at 588-5622 or leave a message or send an email to [email protected] before December 13th