This event is a guided hike by the National Park Service at the Rock Creek Campground next to Nemo Bridge in the Obed Wild & Scenic River, NRA.  We will stay after the hike for Milky Way photography along the river bank below the Nemo Bridge (or on the bridge). 

Night Hike, Emory River Nature Trail

Have you ever been on a hike at night? The world seems like a completely different place full of fascinating animals. Wander through the hush of a moonlit forest on a guided night hike around the Emory River Nature Trail as we explore the Obed after dark and see how plants and creatures adapt when the sun goes down. Walk away with a fresh appreciation for the ecosystem under the stars.

Park staff will guide you along the 1-mile loop, sharing a short stretch with the Cumberland Trail, before returning along the riverbank. After the hike, step onto the historic Nemo Bridge for a night sky view. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, a flashlight, and water. Rock Creek Campground offers limited parking; you can find extra spaces at Nemo Picnic Area across the river.

Where: Obed Wild & Scenic River, Rock Creek Campground (1674 Catoosa Rd., Wartburg, TN 37887)

When: Saturday, May 24. 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Trail Info: 1 Mile, easy to moderate in difficulty

You can join the Park Service hike or stick around Nemo Bridge or the surrounding area.  After the park hike and darkness sets in, we will watch for the Milky Way to rise after 10 p.m.  You can shoot the Milky Way from either the shore of the stream or on the bridge itself (which is more accessible).  

If the weather cooperates and we shoot the Milky Way, it will likely be midnight before you head home.  We will have more information for registrants regarding passes for Nemo Bridge parking area after dark before the event.  We plan to park at Nemo Bridge and those that want to do the hike can cross over to Rock Creek Campground.

Kelli Thompson

SANP Field Event Leader