Muddy Boots Hike – Historic Rugby, TN

Hike Description: This hike will start from the center of Historic Rugby, a National Park Service historical site.  Learn about the history of this fantastic little “British Utopian Colony”.  We will park in public parking on Cumberland avenue, across from the historic center (unfortunately closed on Mondays), proceed to the Laurel Branch Connector Trail, and Clear Fork Loop (a combination of the Gentleman’s Swimming Hole and Meeting of the Waters Trails).  We will then return via the Laurel Branch trail.  This trail is one of the most scenic in the area featuring steep cliff walls, and a swimming hole along the river. We will also pass by the old cemetery and many historic structures.  There are some significant elevation changes and many roots, and slippery rocks along the Meeting of the Waters portion of the trail.

Length of Hike: 4.2 miles

Elevation Change: 530 Ft

Rating: Easy to Moderate

Departure: 8:00 a.m. Chota Center parking lot, across from the gas station

Location/Distance/Drive Time: Rugby, TN - approx. 1:40 minutes drive time