February 11 (Saturday) - NE Section Off Trail (Revised*)- Pocahontas State Park - Chesterfield (B/2)

February 11 (Saturday) - NE Section Off Trail (Revised*)- Pocahontas State Park - Chesterfield (B/2) Jeff Samuels (jefflsamuels@yahoo.com or 536-2671). Up to half of this somewhat challenging +-10.5 mile hike will be off trail along the scenic shoreline and forest north of Swift Creek Lake. Start on established trails, including the infrequently traveled Nunnaly and Deerfield Forest Trails. Eat lunch below Swift Creek Lake spillway. Afterwards, venture mostly off trail. Some points of interest include: Remnants of what may have been a still, spectacular views of Swift Creek Lake, a cemetery, a beaver dam, and the park's largest CCC built dam. Experienced hikers only - must be comfortable hiking sustained off trail and on uneven terrain. Sorry, no short bailout options, so must be prepared to hike the entire distance. Bring lunch and water. Restrooms at start only. $5 parking fee without park pass. Contact Jeff for meeting location, meeting time, and questions.

*REVISION: Minor rerouting necessary due to dam project. Bonus: Espionage case details surrounding top secret military documents unearthed by the FBI in 2003 - an update on a true spy thriller that Jeff brought to our attention three years ago.