I am thinking that the American Chestnuts will still be blooming on July 11 in the higher elevations. To that end, I would like to hike from Hale Lake to Comers Rock overlook.

I understand that there are some good sized chestnuts on that hike. It will be cool to find some big ones and start our chestnut chasers group going!

Also, when we get to the overlook, I want to launch a drone to see if it can spot any flowers from the air while we relax and picnic.

Please email Clint Morse at clintonmorse@gmail.com if you are interested.  Meet at Hale Lake at 3pm and plan to picnic at the overlook around 5.

Directions

GPS Coordinates: 36.760151, -81.249606

From Independence, head north on US-21/N. Independence Ave, turn left onto SR-658/Comers Rock Rd, continue straight onto SR-672/Blue Springs Rd, in approximately 2.3 miles, turn right onto FR-57/Hales Lake Rd, and the parking area will be on the right in approximately 0.6 miles.