Night hikes on Mossy Ridge (Red Trail) in Percy Warner Park.

A great hike for beginners on a moderate trail that gives a chance to try out gear and gumption while covering ~5.5 miles (~2000' of rise/fall) of reasonably groomed trails lined with some wildlife and plush woods.

If you're interested, sign up & let's meet up for a lap of Percy Warner's Mossy Ridge (Red Trail) to chase the sun out of the park. Plan on meeting Thursdays at 6:30pm and heading to the trail no later than 6:45pm.

How fast/hard is this?

I let the group set the pace and nobody is left behind. Expect to break a sweat, but always take time to enjoy the view or catch your breath!

Rain or shine?:

Hike takes place year round and generally in all conditions except for high risk (windy & thunderstorms) weather - the trail does have a lot of widow makers lurking on it. Also, recent years have brought an noticeable overall increase in use of the Warner Parks and trail erosion is a serious problem. If trail conditions are too poor/extreme (muddy) we may forgo a hike until the trail is more suitable for use without damage.

How many people have to RSVP for the event?:

I go with or without any RSVPs. So, the number of attendees doesn't matter. 1 or 50 people signup - I'll go regardless (who can say no to some time in the woods anyway???).

How long does the hike last?:

Hike lasts around two hours (a little less on cooler nights, a bit longer on hotter nights).

Where do we meet?:

We will start from the "Cross Country" parking lot just off of Highway 100 (a bit east of the junction at Old Hickory Boulevard, check out the picture of the parking lot) as you head back towards Belle Meade/Nashville on Highway 100. Address is approximate - Google does not list an actual physical address for this parking lot.

If a cross country meet is happening at the park, plan on meeting back by the Bob Brown Field house (vs. the parking lot) to make it easier to find the everyone & start on time.

Handy map of the meeting spot:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1kAOnoDJ1rw71r03HGYs1ePOcrezcAk05

After meeting up, we will take the Candy Cane Connector to the Mossy Ridge trail (about .7 miles one way). Then on to the Mossy Ridge (Red) Trail for the 4.5 mile loop.

On nights when the hike finishes at a reasonable time, we often head to the Brewhouse 100 or Sportsman's for a little camaraderie & grub before heading home.

What do you need?:

Light(s) required to finish the hike out and ensure your safety.

Recommend carrying water - summer nights are quite warm well into the night.

If rain was/is in the forecast, gaiters are handy to keep mud & muck out of your boots or shoes. A light weight shell is also handy to carry if weather looks iffy.

For summer hikes, dress accordingly to vent and stay cool. Opt for synthetics over cotton to help keep yourself from being soaked and having trouble cooling.

For winter hikes, dress accordingly to vent and stay warm. The key to temperature control is staying dry, so bear that in mind as you select your layers.

Hiking boots or shoes recommended as numerous rocky areas, scree, and roots are present on the trail. So treat your feet as you see fit for comfort and safety bearing that in mind.

Bug spray highly recommended in the summer/fall months.

Poles are a personal preference thing, rarely use mine unless it is super slick/icy or if I twist an ankle. However, if you are prone to doing your own stunts, I'd recommend using them to provide a bit of stability.

FRS radios are welcome, default to channel 1/1 for general monitoring/use. Alternate channel is usually 7/11 for convenience. Try to keep banter to a minimum though, and let the wildlife wander peacefully.

Dogs are welcome to come along, but must be on a leash. It's the state law and snakes frequent the trail. Don't risk putting your furry friend in harm's way...

The past several years have witnessed yellow jacket nests within proximity of or on the trail. If you are allergic to bee stings, please make it known to the group and travel prepared.