If you love hiking, canoeing, and outdoor exploration, the Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club (TEHCC) is the perfect organization for you. This club is dedicated to promoting outdoor activities in Tennessee and the surrounding Appalachian region, offering exciting adventures for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Whether you’re looking for scenic trails, thrilling canoe trips, or a welcoming outdoor community, the TEHCC provides countless opportunities to connect with nature, meet like-minded adventurers, and explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southeast.
About the Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club
A Long History of Outdoor Enthusiasm
The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club was founded to encourage hiking, canoeing, and conservation efforts in the region. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving community of outdoor lovers who actively maintain trails, organize group trips, and support environmental stewardship.
Who Can Join?
The club is open to anyone with a passion for the outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner looking to try your first hike or an experienced paddler seeking a challenge, the TEHCC welcomes members of all ages and skill levels.
What Does the Club Offer?
The TEHCC organizes hiking trips, canoeing excursions, and trail maintenance projects throughout the year. Members can participate in:
✔ Guided hiking and backpacking trips
✔ Scenic canoeing and kayaking adventures
✔ Volunteer opportunities for trail conservation
✔ Workshops on outdoor skills, safety, and navigation
✔ Social events and community gatherings
Hiking with TEHCC: Explore the Appalachian Trails
Best Hiking Trails Managed by TEHCC
One of the club’s most notable contributions is its role in maintaining portions of the Appalachian Trail (AT). If you’re looking for beautiful hikes in Tennessee and beyond, here are some of the top trails associated with the TEHCC:
1. Roan Highlands
- Why Visit? Stunning panoramic views, wildflower-filled meadows, and rolling mountains.
- Trail Type: Moderate to strenuous
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for the best scenery.
2. Laurel Fork Falls
- Why Visit? A breathtaking waterfall surrounded by lush forests.
- Trail Type: Easy to moderate
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best after rainfall for a more powerful waterfall.
3. Big Laurel Branch Wilderness
- Why Visit? A remote and peaceful hike through dense woodlands.
- Trail Type: Moderate
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for stunning foliage.
Group Hikes and Community Events
The TEHCC organizes group hiking trips for members, ranging from casual day hikes to multi-day backpacking adventures. These outings are great for:
✔ Meeting fellow hikers
✔ Exploring new trails with experienced guides
✔ Learning about local wildlife and plant life
Canoeing and Kayaking Adventures with TEHCC
Best Rivers for Canoeing with TEHCC
The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club is not just about hiking! If you love being on the water, the club organizes canoeing and kayaking trips on some of the most scenic rivers in the region.
1. Nolichucky River
- Why Visit? Thrilling rapids and scenic riverbanks.
- Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for higher water levels.
2. Watauga River
- Why Visit? Calm waters perfect for a relaxing paddle.
- Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for warm-weather paddling.
3. Clinch River
- Why Visit? A peaceful river with great fishing opportunities.
- Skill Level: All levels
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best in late summer.
Why Join TEHCC Canoeing Trips?
Joining an organized trip with TEHCC means safe and enjoyable experiences with knowledgeable paddlers. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these trips are a great way to:
✔ Improve your paddling skills
✔ Explore new rivers with experienced guides
✔ Meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts
How to Get Involved with TEHCC
1. Become a Member
Joining the TEHCC gives you access to exclusive hiking and canoeing trips, volunteer opportunities, and a supportive outdoor community. Membership is open to individuals, families, and corporate groups.
2. Volunteer for Trail Maintenance
One of the TEHCC’s key missions is maintaining trails, especially sections of the Appalachian Trail. Volunteers help with:
✔ Clearing fallen trees and debris
✔ Building and repairing trail structures
✔ Ensuring safe and accessible hiking paths
3. Attend Club Events and Workshops
Throughout the year, the club hosts educational workshops and social events where members can:
✔ Learn essential outdoor skills (e.g., navigation, survival tips, Leave No Trace principles)
✔ Attend community meetups and outdoor film screenings
✔ Participate in conservation projects
Why Join the Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club?
Becoming a member of TEHCC offers many benefits, including:
✔ Access to Exclusive Hiking and Canoeing Trips – Discover new trails and rivers with experienced guides.
✔ Opportunities for Outdoor Education – Learn new skills to enhance your outdoor adventures.
✔ A Supportive and Friendly Community – Meet fellow nature lovers and share unforgettable experiences.
✔ Contribution to Trail Conservation – Help maintain and protect scenic hiking trails for future generations.
✔ Discounts on Gear and Events – Some members enjoy special discounts at outdoor retailers.
The Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club is an amazing organization for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Tennessee’s trails and waterways. Whether you’re interested in hiking scenic mountain trails, paddling down peaceful rivers, or giving back through trail conservation, TEHCC offers something for everyone.
If you’re looking for adventure, community, and a deeper connection with nature, consider joining TEHCC today. Grab your hiking boots, paddle, and sense of adventure, and start exploring the incredible outdoor landscapes of Tennessee and beyond!