Making Rescues Easier in Pocket Wilderness

199 views · Published 14 September 2015 · 2:29 · Indexed 20 September 2026

Channel: WTVC NewsChannel 9 · 2015 · News & Politics

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Since June, there have been 17 rescues at North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Natural Area, two in September. 

Chattanoogans call the area in Soddy Daisy, Pocket Wilderness. It is a popular hiking and swimming area that is just 20 miles north of downtown Chattanooga. The increasing popularity has lead to an increase in rescues. 

Fire and park officials are looking for ways to make rescues less taxing for volunteers in the Pocket Wilderness area.

"Due to the rough terrain, it is hard for individuals to hike 2, 3 miles carrying 10-to-15 pounds of equipment, and a stretcher," said Amy Maxwell with Hamilton County Emergency Services. 

Mowbray volunteer fire chief Chris Weddington says nearly 30 - 50 of the roughly 225 calls they get each year come from Pocket Wilderness.

Cumberland Trail State Park manager Bobby Fulcher says officials are planning to open a path to allow vehicular access to make it easier for rescues.

Fulcher says the paths will be a very minor impact on the site.

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