It was my 59th birthday and Godfrey and I set out for a birthday hike. It was a beautiful crisp late November day with temps in the mid-thirties at the beginning of the hike. We did this trail a couple years ago and I had forgotten about it. I found it again while reviewing past hikes looking for another trail to add to Godfrey’s “approved” hip-friendly list.
Cold weather brings me back to my over 5 decades living in Chicago. Winters there toughen you up because the cold settles in for sometimes weeks at a time. Georgia never gets you acclimated to a true winter. I love winter months when it’s quiet and cold and while I don’t get the big snows and deep freezes here in Georgia you get enough of a taste.
The Roden Trail is a comfortable walk in the woods. It is rated moderate because of a few inclines, especially the final climb toward the tower, but nothing on it is too difficult. The path winds through tunnels of mountain laurels which are part of the Rhododendron family but not what I normally consider a Rhododendron. The apex of this hike takes you to the Chenocetah Fire Tower.
The tower are offers a wide view of the surrounding forest, and you can spot Lake Russell in the distance at this time of year. It’s a national historic site and a good turnaround point for the hike. No one was at the tower this morning and this allowed me to let Godfrey off leash for a short time. A bit of freedom always improves his mood.
The walk back down is almost entirely downhill and is covered with tons of leaves hiding the rocks and roots on the trail. Caution is needed so you don’t twist an ankle! Things warmed up by mid morning and it felt like a different day than when we started.
This trail doesn’t have great views but is still peaceful and satisfying. It is short, quiet, and a good workout. This was a great way to spend my 59th birthday!
stats
Length: 4.23 mi
Avg. Pace: 24:43
Elev. Gain: 810 ft.
Calories: 847
Moving Time: 1:44:38
Total Time: 1:45:48
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