On the Tennessee

This was planned as a day to take it easy - only 55 miles and two locks so we didn't leave until 9:15. It took 7 minutes from the marina to the spot where we entered the Tennessee River just above Pickwick Dam. The lake is very wide behind this dam and continues like that for miles. The banks seem to alternate between steep slopes and rock cliffs and there are places with lots of islands. One of the biggest differences from the Tenn-Tom is that there are now many homes on both sides of the river.

There is very little river traffic today. We pass one tug/barge headed upstream. Lots of people out fishing all over the lake. Before they would just be on the banks, here they are everywhere. Just before noon we reach Wilson lock. This is the third largest lock in the world with a 93 foot lift. Timing was perfect as we arrive just as a sailboat is coming out. Turns out this is also the newest and nicest lock we've been thru. Easy to tie up and no pockets in the walls. The most interesting thing is that the upstream door does not open like every other lock we've seen. It drops down and vanishes underwater.

With the door down, out we go headed for Wheeler lock 15 miles away. Our stop is only 13 miles after that so looks great for an early day until I call the lock and they advise that it will be two hours before we can go thru. Down to idle speed to kill about an hour and then anchor at the lock to wait. We get thru about 3:30 and head for Bay Hill Marina.

This is a small marina with really nice condos. The restaurant isn't open, but we meet Lee and Andrea while waiting for fuel. They've been out playing on their jet ski and are staying in one of the condos. After chatting for a while, they ask us if we would like to go into town with them for dinner. Went to a really good steakhouse and talked with them until past 10. Don't think we'll be starting out too early in the morning. Only two days to go.