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Savage Gulf State Natural Area, Monteagle, TN 25.4 miles
This hike was designed to give beginners and intermediate
hikers an opportunity to try a trek. We left Nashville together
on Friday mid-afternoon, drove the 2 hours to Savage Gulf and
hiked 1.4 miles to the campsite for the night. Saturday was
a 12.1 mile day taking us down into the Gulf. We concluded
the hike with 11.9 miles mostly along the ridge on Sunday.
Discovery Hiker Comments:
 “I came to the Discovery Hike to get a taste of what my father so deeply enjoyed, and to financially
support BENCHMARK. The results of my personal experience have caused me to think about my
ambitions. I try to do it all and do it well. But there are times when it’s not for me to do. I need to
be able to let go easier, not quit, but to back off when I should.”
~ Tia Dunaway, first-time backpacker
 “No one would be surprised to find a sense of serenity in the midst of such beautiful scenery, but
I discovered that serenity is tested through unexpected circumstances. This hike was an opportunity
to test leadership skills and serve people in unexpected ways.”
~ Keith Fletcher, 6 Year Funding Hiker
 “Because of the nature of the trip I was able to spend a lot of time thinking about several
areas of my life and I know now what I need to do to move forward. We all have a goal
or destination that we are headed for, but make sure that you don’t miss the enjoyment
of the journey.”
~ Chris Willhite, veteran backpacker, first Discovery Hike
“I know more now than ever how beautiful God’s creation is and to be thankful even in
harsh situations because the Lord is so good to us. Why take things for granted when
there is no need to?”
~ Jacob Buentello, 18 year old first-time backpacker
 “... I was able to experience once again the renewing benefits of being removed from my daily responsibilities
and routine – things that have a tendency to distract me from simply reflecting upon
who I am and what I am here for. I am grateful for Benchmark and its desire to meet such a need
in the lives of people like me who end up growing in ways never anticipated.”
~ Jon Mandeville, college teacher
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