On February 28, S-ROX headed for the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a wonderful area, 45 minutes or so outside of Waynesville, where many short and long hiking loops can be completed. We completed about a 2.5 mile loop and had some new families in attendance with us which was wonderful! Fun fact: Two of our Shining Rock parents hiked the entire Appalachian Trail together in 2004--Jesse and Melanie Norman, Eliza's mom, Incredible!!
Our goal on this trip wasn't high mileage, but rather finding multiple waterfalls and enjoying their beauty after the heavy precipitation we've had this winter. Bella Wren, one of our founding club members, emailed me before the school was even open, asking if we could go on a waterfall hike once our club was formed. I was so touched by her taking the time to make a specific request, and I couldn't wait to take her on this particular hike. She is such a joy to be with, as are all these kids.
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| We had a great turnout! |
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| Tom Branch Falls isn't nearly as beautiful as Bella Wren and Amelia! |
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| Paige loves hikes with both water and her friends |
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| The water was soooo cold--a good deterrent to keep them safe at the edge. |
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| We had a couple of guest hikers with us, Isaac and Wes |
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| Huge crayfish! |
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| Indian Creek Falls |
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| The little McLean girls, Sophia and Kate, are so tough and brave on these hikes! |
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| The kids all loved that they could fit on this log to have a snack break |
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| Contemplating why the water is different colors |
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| Bella Wren, I especially hope you enjoyed our waterfall hike! :-) |
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Moving right along
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| Girl power! |
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| The boys plus sweet Eliza! |
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| Juney Whank Falls |
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| In the summer, people tube on Deep Creek and the water is usually much lower than it was during our hike. Perhaps a return visit in the summer would be fun! |
It was great fun Nancy! Thank you for planning such a fun afternoon!
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