Hooper Bald Hike in Autumn 2026

above New England Asters blooming along the parking lot of Hooper Bald Trail.

 Hooper Bald Hike in Autumn 2026

Friday Oct. 9, 2026

Crystal, Michael and Tessa Lindsey

Nanny Dana Koogler 

Pictures are HERE 

  My grandson Michael age 17 had put in a request to go hiking just the two of us before Fall Break.    We set a date and time and general idea what we'd do.   Upon mentioning it in front of his mom, my daughter Crystal, she piped up that SHE wanted to go as well.  I told her to clear it with Michael and we'd all go.  So that is what she did.   All four of us went down to the Skyway and hiked out to Hooper Bald.   It was beautiful. Colors weren't peak yet, but it was a bluebird day just the same.   She wanted to stop off in Tellico Plains later and have a coffee or a treat or something. They have really gentrified Tellico Plains historic downtown.  

Below is a look at the roadside on the drive up to the parking spot for Hooper Bald trail.  

Loaded with Fall wildflowers.  goldenrod, ladies tresses, and asters 

above: a view of Fall colors from the parking area of Hooper Bald looking north

above:  trail out to Hooper Bald is covered with leaves

above: oak leaves starting to change colors to red out on the bald

above: goldenrod was beautiful on the bald and the parking area. 

Below: a close look at the tiny ladies tresses orchids which were abundant

     Below: copper beech leaves are some of my favorites in Autumn

Below:  looking out across the bald when you first come to the end of the constructed path

Below:  my beautiful red haired baby girl and her babies Crystal, Michael and Tessa at the pulpit on Hooper Bald

Below: view from the rock outcrop on Hooper Bald minus my grandkids

above and below: views of the fairy tale trail on one end of the bald

above: Crystal and kids ahead of me  on the hike back

Below: Sweet little Tessa trying to make some magical moments for photo ops. 

Below: She has succeeded in pulling it off. Autumn Leaves Magic!  

above and below:  Brother Michael being a contrarian like me did not make it easy. Continual photo bombing and showing off.  He is trying to do a cartwheel. I have a new rule for my grandkids. No Cartwheels! Why? Because I can't do one!  They think it is so funny. 

  We had a great day of hiking and enjoying the first bit of Autumn color together.  If you haven't stopped in to downtown Tellico Plains in awhile you should! It's pretty cool! 

above and below:  Michael sitting outdoors while me and Crystal wait on our coffee. He has a hot chocolate.  

Below: Tessa sitting inside waiting patiently.