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 Reporter |
Summary: The rock pile trail is an easily followed trail which includes some of the most interesting features packed into a 6 mile in and out hike possible. The trail follows the Tennessee river upstream along bluffs with several views of Florence as well as the river. The trail is very well marked and well maintained. Wildlife on the trail is suprisingly diverse although there is a definite lack of larger species. However bird watchers should be impressed by the diversity of song birds, migratory species, pelicans, and eagles (yes I did say eagles). The highlight of the trail is toward the turn around point which ends at the top of Wilson Dam. here there is a system of small caves, as well as a rather impressive waterfall that cascades off the side of the bluffs into the Tennessee River at the base of the dam. There are several historical sites worth noting on the trail as well. Trailhead: The trail is easily found although to walk the whole trail which is the preferred way to do it one should start near the paved nature trails west of wilson dam. There is a sign pointing toward an area known as "nature trails". From the parking lot complete with facilities simply head down the paved trail to the sign stating rock pile trail. The trail is the only blazed trail in the system which includes several interesting side trails. (Lat:34.79411 Lon:-87.62481) Trail Guides for TVA ReservationRock pile: Best Seasons: Fall, Winter, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: TVA Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Robert Schueller, who has posted 14 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Opie on 3/20/2010 Found this website with a websearch on hiking trails. The trail was marked well and passed several times through some chain link fences, however the white blazing was posted at each fence pass-through. The elev changes could be tough for certain hikers,wooden and rock steps are plentiful. I am not sure how the rating system works, but I found this trail a moderate challenge and we regularly exercise (one of us just completed a half marathon, the other does "cross-fit" style exercise).I really liked the scenery, the river birds put on a fishing show & squirrels escorted us several times. The fall at the dam was a cool resting place-literally. It is a naturally turn-around pt unless you are Clint Eastwood. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Alabama Hiking, Alabama Trails, Alabama Hikes, Colbert County Hiking, Colbert County Trails, Colbert County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||