House Mountain - First Hike in Tennessee

Move in date - November 30th; first hike date - December 4th. No time to waste!

This hike was an interesting one. It's been a while since I have hiked in the winter (well, technically not winter yet) among bare trees. House Mountain trail was a 4 mile trail with some elevation gain, and in my perception was going to be an easy one. 

Somehow it was not. Maybe it is my lack of regular hiking practice or possibly I was exhausted from the move, but going uphill was pretty strenuous. The surface was covered with fallen leaves making the ground somewhat slippery. My hiking shoes were up to the challenge sturdily gripping the moist soil under my feet. The rocks were a bit more difficult, but with careful foot positioning, I got to the top of the mountain. The view was rather nice.

The way down was a bit more tough as now slippery leaves were hiding rocks and roots underneath them. There is something about the sound of fallen leaves that made me feel peaceful in this serene place with few people around me. Quiet, very quiet...