November 28, 2023
Rhododendron Trail and Chenocetah Tower Loop
at the Lake Russell Recreation Area near Mt. Airy, GA
It was a cold start, but later warming up to the mid-40's on an otherwise sunny day and much less winds than forecasted. The path was dry and in good condition and showed some ongoing maintenance with no blowdowns or other obstructions. The trail is fairly easy with a gradual uphill slope until reaching the base of Chenocetah Mtn. where the slope was steep for 0.3 mile. The fire tower is impressive and there is a clear view of Lake Russell from an overlook from the road around the tower. We took an alternate route down Chenocetah Mtn that joins the return leg of the Rhododendron Trail and avoids the narrow and steep approach trail. Thanks Stephanie for pointing this out. We saw three waterfalls along our route, but there were actually three more we did not see, requiring a bit more bushwhacking than we wanted to do. Just one wildflower cluster of Gentian near Little Dancer Falls.
Today's Hikers: Rich Brown & Squirt, Jane Brown, Jenny Bell, Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Alicia Morris, Gita Patel, Angela Evans, Pam Hembree, Renée Corbett, Vic Robson, Mike Bell, Priscilla Ruff & Tank and Stephanie Kromelis.
The route
5.7 mi · 951 ft climbing · 3h 28m out, 3h 4m walking · 1.9 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
20 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (20)
Just an unnamed simple cascade near the start of the hike. Today's Hikers (L-R): Rich, Squirt, Jane, Jenny, Cutie Pie, Ken, Alicia, Gita, Angela, Pam, Renee, Vic, Mike, Tank & Priscilla. Not shown: Stephanie We took the park road around the north end of Lake Russell to the trailhead. The trail was nicely marked and in good condtion. Good morning Vic! This is Trailside Falls. We didn't see a safe way to the base of it. But we could get to the top of Trailside Falls, but it was a slippery slide on some leaves to get to it. On to Tiny Dancer Falls . . . what a nice sign, too. An here's Tiny Dancer Falls. Looks like it might have been a rock quarry at one time. Tank and Squirt crossing over an unnamed branch we've been following up the Rhododendron Trail. Cutie Pie probably covered twice as much mileage as the rest of us . . . without any hesitation, too! "Come on, folks!" says Cutie Pie. But Squirt say's, "what's the rush?" A curious shaped tree stood out. Finally, Chenocetah Fire Tower. A beautiful view of Lake Russell from a nearby overlook. Headed back on a new trail that connects to the return leg of the Rhododendron Trail. A bit slippery with the dry leaves. Lake Russell has so many pretty viewpoints. Almost back Angela and Gita! A blown-down tree that would not die, but sprouted three new trunks. How about that chili luncheon at Jack and Stephanie's home nearby. Thanks from everyone!