The Midday Rambler: Take Me to the River

With the days growing shorter, sometimes it's good to have a short, nearby hike in the back of your mind to make sure you can get your steps in. My dad tipped me off to a hike I had never heard of with a nice incline and great views of the Watauga River. Better still, I can get there from my house in under 20 minutes. It's been a busy week, so I was a facing a time crunch when it came time to select a hike for this week's column. Luckily, the Watauga River Bluffs State Natural Area was just moments away. Hike: Watauga River Bluffs Trail Location: Watauga River Bluffs State Natural Area Distance: 1.5 miles The Prep First, you've got to know where you're going. Take Watauga Road out of Johnson City toward Elizabethton past the Johnson City Airport and start looking for Steam Plant Road on your left. Once you turn on Steam Plant Road, follow it across the train tracks and past the church before pulling into the small, clearly marked parking area on your right. There is only one trail in this natural area, and it is clearly marked at the end of the parking lot. This is a good hike for beginners with minimal ups and downs, but you'll still want to bring a hiking stick with you. Once you get near the river, you'll want to have your stick handy before you poke your feet into any brush. Why? Snakes. I didn't see any snakes, but if I was a snake, this is where I'd want to live. I can just imagine a snake realtor touting location, location, location - located next to the river with a lot of nice vegetation, rotting logs to crawl up inside and abundant dining options. Long pants and hiking boots are also recommended. The Price During the first quarter-mile of this hike, you'll have a slight incline followed by a gradual decline down to the bank of the Watauga River. There is a small rock formation you'll have to scale early on - about the size of two high stair steps - but it is a one-time occurance and should be easily navigated if you take your time. Once you get to the banks of the river, you'll be greeted by a wonderful view of the gorgeous Watauga River. The peaceful sound of flowing water will accompany you during the final half-mile as you follow the narrow trail along the river bank. There are a few places to grab a seat and enjoy the changing colors that lie across the gently flowing water. The Payoff The first quarter-mile of the trail reminds me of the hiking I've done when I've gone back home to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. You'll hear the sound of songbirds and crickets as you wind through the woods on your way down to the riverbank. All of the hikes so far in this series have focused on the beautiful mountains we have in our region. This hike puts one of our most beautiful rivers on full display. There is something calming about hearing the sound of the rushing water, and the beauty of the Watauga is well worth the walk. The Verdict Difficulty: 2.4 This hike isn't too tough, aside from the initial incline over the steep rock and the incline on the way back. It should be considered a beginner's hike, but even seasoned hikers will enjoy being immersed in nature on fall days when they don't have enough time to wander further afield. If you have any pictures from this hike or would like to suggest a hike you think I should go on, send them along to me at: dongie@sixriversmedia.com. Previous Hikes The Noggin - Buffalo Mountain Park Upper White Rocks Loop to Huckleberry Knob and Sunset Point - Buffalo Mountain Park Whitehouse Cliffs Trail - Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park Carver's Gap to Round Bald/Carver's Gap to Jane Bald - Roan Mountain Lone Oak Trail to Tip Top - Buffalo Mountain Rhododendron Trail - Grayson Highlands State Park