Things to Do On a Long Walk

People today are more health conscious than in the past. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to take long walks on a daily basis. You can even make this time more interesting and consistent by following a few ideas suggested below.

Read
Ever wish you could find the time to read the latest bestseller? Your daily walk could be an ideal time. Today, it is easier than ever to download audio books for use on your iPod or phone. Libraries also offer audio books for free on CD.

Rhododendron Gardens in Full Bloom - Roan Mtn. State Park

Last weekend we took the time to ride up to the Rhododendron Gardens at the top of Roan Mountain outside of Elizabethton, TN. It's a pretty long haul for us and the weather was brutal, but with circumstances as they were we knew it was the only time we'd have to see the blooms this season and get Bug up there for her first visit. We also wanted to avoid the Rhododendron Festival which is being held this weekend - Sat. June 16 & Sun. 17, 2012 from 10am-5pm. I hear it's a wonderful event, but we wanted a little solitude on top of the mountain.

Bug's Big Adventure Weekend

So last weekend was pretty busy for us. Big sis had her first track meet of the season, and so it would also be a big test for "Bug" (one of the few nicknames for Dinah). The meet was a jamboree so nothing official. I have to say that I am very proud of my "Big Bug". She threw the discus for the first time for a whopping 43'9". She also did the long jump and the 800m run, she did those events last year as well.



As for Bug well, she didn't take to well to the meet business. Actually, she didn't take to well to being out and about much at all. It was still a bit cool and there was a pretty good breeze blowing and Bug doesn't much care for big breezes. So Robin and Bug ended up spending much of the time stuck in the car where Bug was more apt to be pleasant. At one point she had finally taken up the whole back seat, forcing Robin to sit up front in the drivers seat completely bored out of her mind while little bit napped the day away.

First Walk (Not quite a hike)

On New Years Eve day, the weather was phenomenal, and considering it was likely going to be the last pretty day for a little while we decided to take full advantage of it and get out for a bit. Granted we've been out a couple times since the wee little one arrived almost two weeks ago, it's not been any getting out that we wanted to do. It seems that when you go out because you have to it feels more like a chore than it does anything else regardless if you've been cooped up for any length of time (just ask Robin). It was different this time. Yes, we did hit the big local box mart but not before we got outside and filled our lungs with some much needed fresh air.

Apples, Oranges, and 5K's

We hope everyone had a chance to get out this weekend to enjoy the perfect fall weather. It was perfect for most of us out in the east here, but I did see where there was some snow out west. Yikes! Snow in October?! I know that's not totally unheard of here but it would be unusual. Anyway, the leaves are turning color more and more each day. We are nearing peak around here in the East Tennessee Valley. From Cumberland Gap to Cherokee National Forest and down to Knoxville, the colors are magnificent. It won't be long before "Old Man Winter" is knocking on our doors. So if you haven't yet, you better get out and enjoy this weather before it gets too cold.

That's exactly what we did this past weekend, and look forward to doing just that over the next few weekends. We started the weekend by heading out to Coalfield, TN for the Coalfield 5K supporting the Coalfield Cross Country team. The race started at 8:00am and ran through a subdivision next to the school then through the cross country trail on the school grounds, back in front the school and down another road before turning around and heading back to the school for the finish. It was a pretty fast course with a nice little uphill just after the start. Then there was a nice 1.5 miles or so on the trail the cross country team uses to practice on. It's a graveled trail with a couple of foot bridges and two covered bridges. After the trail, it's back to the road and a slight up hill just before heading back to the finish at the school.

Hamfests and Ghost Trains

This weekend looks to be a busy one for us. First thing early Saturday morning we have a Hamfest to attend. For our hiking friends, a Hamfest is an event where amateur (ham) radio operators gather together to sell equipment, check out and buy equipment from radio vendors, attend classes, seminars, and demonstrations, and hope to win a cool door prize. Not much different than an Outdoor Retailer type event, just on a smaller scale. The biggest thing about these events however are the food and fellowship amongst other Hams. Anyway, this weekend is the Ten-Tec Hamfest in Sevierville, TN. We will be up there early in the morning trying to sell some Ham gear for a friend of ours who's husband went SK (silent key, aka passed away) earlier this year. There's plenty of good radio gear to purchase and you'd also be helping out a fellow ham/widow with some of her expenses. So be sure to come out if you are in the area and are a ham or even want to be a ham. They give amateur radio exams during the hamfest, too.

Courtesy of BSFNRRA

The next big thing on our plates for this weekend is the First Annual Ghost Train up at Big South Fork NRRA and Big South For Scenic Railway. The scenic railway is located in Stearns, Kentucky and takes groups down to the Blue Heron mining community in the Big South Fork for tours of the area.

A Beautiful Day to Run/Walk a 5k

We normally don't write about my running exploits much. I've only been running again since the end of April, and it hasn't been the most consistent running plan on the face of the Earth considering all the nursery stuff and house buying stuff we've been doing as of late. Nonetheless, I've not let it sideline me completely on the running front. For me, running is a release, an escape much like hiking from the rest of the world and a little time to focus on me and keep myself fit. After all, we've got another one on the way and I'll need to be in shape to keep up with her.

Anyway, an opportunity arose to test how far I've come since I started running again. Where I work was the headline sponsor for The 4th Annual Man Run against prostate cancer. Being such, the race organizers gave work so many spots in the race for the employees. So I decided to run. In addition, I signed up the kiddo to run since they had enough spots to accommodate her as well. I figured if she was going to run cross country this year, this would be a good chance to introduce her to the 5k distance.

Alice And The Rabbit - Kephart Prong Trail GSMNP - 6/4/2011

This past Saturday was National Trails Day, and regardless of the fact, we had already been planning to hike earlier in the week. You see last week Robin finally received her Vasque Taku GTX hiking boots and Goodhew hiking socks as a result of winning a "Gear Review Opportunity" from the OBN. So just like a kid at Christmas or a kid who receives a new pair of Nikes, she was ready to take them out on the trail.

We actually made it to bed early (11:30pm EDT) by our standards so that we could get up early in order to avoid the heat of the day and the crowds in the Smokies. We were so excited about our hike that it was hard for us to either get to sleep or stay asleep. We were both up, ready, and out of the house before 6:00am and on our way to the Great Smoky Mountains. Of course we had to make a couple pit stops for petrol, breakfast, ice, and well, nature calls more frequently when there's something pressing against your bladder almost non-stop.

Vasque Mindbender 7516 Trail Running Shoes - Gear Review

As you all know, I was a lucky recipient of a pair of Vasque Mindbender 7516 Trail Running shoes. I had entered a contest sponsored by Rock Creek Outfitters and Vasque Footwear for free entry into the Rock Creek Scenic City Trail Marathon and a free pair of Vasque Mindbenders. It's probably a good thing I didn't win as I would have placed dead last anyway as I've only been back to the running thing for about a month or so now.

Regardless of the fact, because I tried so hard in the contest, Vasque Footwear was kind enough to offer me a consolation prize in the form of a free pair of Mindbenders. I was actually quite surprised at the offer and very excited as well as grateful at the same time. This in my opinion is the mark of a great company, willing to reward those that even when they come up short they tried hard regardless of the fact.

Well I've had the Mindbenders now for about 2 weeks and already I've fallen in love with them. I've been running on the Lake Trail at Big Ridge State Park and the Songbird Trail at Norris Dam State Park. I've worn them to work and have walked several miles in them during breaks. I even wore them this past weekend hiking in the Big South Fork. Oh and they work quite well on the track, too.

The first day I received them in the mail, I had them out of the box immediately checking them out. As I was home for lunch I couldn't wear them just yet but was eager to get back home. When I did I immediately changed out of my work clothes into more suitable shorts and t-shirt appropriate for a little house work to help out Robin who is still working overtime making baby. I donned the Mindbenders and set straight to vacuuming the house. The first thing I noticed was the grip of the shoes. Of course I was on carpet but it was almost like my feet glued to it with every step.

During the few trail runs and other runs I've done since I received them, I've noticed more and more how well the shoes perform. I've only slipped a little one time while wearing them and that was going up hill on a trail with brittle rock. You know the kind: slate rock that crumbles the seconds you put the slightest amount of pressure on it. Other than that they've been great. I've even gotten them a bit wet walking through grass after a good soaking rain. They handle moisture quite well with a very breathable mesh upper which also allows your feet to stay cool in the heat and allows for quick drying too.

The sole of the shoes are quite impressive as well. I've noticed that when running I do not feel the shock of impact with the ground on my feet at all, unless I happen to land the toe area on a stick, rock, or root. Walking on the road is like walking on a firm mattress if that tells you anything.

The weight of the shoe comes in just under 400g making them a nice light weight trail runner. My feet don't feel like they plod along while walking, hiking or running. Instead of the clunky feeling one might get with a sturdy hiking shoe or boot, the Mindbenders are quite the opposite. I feel nimble on my feet, like I can handle any sort of terrain, well except maybe wet, moss covered rocks, I don't think anything can stand up to that. That stuff is like black ice on the road.

The fit of the Mindbenders is rather superb as well. It feels as though they cradle my foot nicely and leave enough room in the toe box for foot swelling/expansion that is experienced when running longer distances. I did order a half-size up as I usually do with any shoe that I'll be very active in. However, I don't think I would recommend this shoe to a flat footed person. While the arch support is well for the normal pronator, someone with flat feet wouldn't get the arch support they needed unless they wore some sort of orthotic or other insert. Of course if you've ever tried to wear an insert/orthotic in a pair of running shoes, it feels as though you might run out of the shoes at any moment.

One other point on the shoes I will mention is that while they are great for trail running, urban walking, hikes on easy to moderate terrain, and other running surfaces, I wouldn't recommend them for hiking in the winter, at least not in our neck of the woods or further north from here. With the breathability, your feet would likely get a little chilly. I also wouldn't recommend them for hiking on a longer or more technical trail like those you might find in The Great Smoky Mountains. One stub of the toe on a root or rock sticking up out of the ground and you will definitely feel it.

Anyway, I can't say enough how much I love these shoes. Even though I'm still breaking them in (I've only got about 30 multipurpose miles on them) they have met and surpassed my needs for a trail running shoe. I also can't thank Vasque Footwear or Rock Creek Outfitters enough for holding the contest, otherwise I wouldn't have been fortunate enough to have these great kicks for my footsies.

Okay, I know some of you are all about the technical details so I will share them with you here straight from the Vasque Footwear website.

Vasque Men's Mindbender 7516 Specs:
- Weight: 11.5 oz. (326g)
- Outsole: Vasque Blur
- Last: Perpetuum
- Midsole: Dual Density EVA and TPU Instep Plate
- Available Colors: Olive Branch/Peat or Beluga/Spectra Yellow
- Available Sizes: Men's Medium 7-12,13,14,15,Wide 8-12,13
- MSRP: Appx. $100.00

Vasque Women's Mindbender 7519 Specs:
- Weight: 9.9 oz. (281g)
- Outsole: Vasque Blur
- Last: Perpetuum
- Midsole: Dual Density EVA and TPU Instep Plate

- Available Colors: Griffin/Riviera or a Green/Gray (Not sure the official color name as it's not listed on the site.)
- Available Sizes: Women's Medium 5-11
- MSRP: Appx. $100.00

So there you have it. If you are in the market for a good pair of trail runners and you aren't flat footed, I would highly recommend a pair of Vasque Mindbenders.

Happy Trails,
Tim

Disclaimer: Tim received the Vasque Mindbender 7516s free of charge as a consolation prize in a contest on Vasque Footwear's Facebook Page. He agreed to review them here on Appalachia & Beyond. The opinions expressed above are Tim's independent thoughts and experiences.

New Featured Park - Cove Lake State Park

I know it's the middle of May and it's long overdue but better late than never right? So our new "Featured Park" for May - June 2011 is Cove Lake State Park in Caryville, TN. Cove lake has lots of great amenities and just in time for summer to boot. So what are you waiting for? Head on over to our "Featured Parks" page and learn what Cove Lake State Park has to offer to the outdoor lover.

Happy Trails,
Tim and Robin

Lots of Running and Walking

We hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, and we especially hope all the mom's out there had a fantastic Mother's Day. Our weekend was a busy one, but very pleasant and the weather couldn't have been better. We've been doing a lot of walking here as of late and I've been doing a good bit of running again. If you hadn't heard I was in a contest to win a pair for Vasque Mindbenders (Trail Running Shoes) and free entry into Rock Creek's Scenic City Trail Marathon/Half Marathon race in Chattanooga towards the end of May. Anyway, today was the last day for voting and it was neck and neck between me and another runner up to the end. At 3:00pm today I was defeated in the contest by Leah Jones, a local trail runner here in Knoxville. So if you have a moment head over to Vasque Footwear's Facebook page and congratulate Leah on a well deserved victory and wish her luck in the race next week.

So back to the walking and running. Friday I went on a trail run while Robin and the girls (Clover, Ashby and Jodi) walked. We went to Big Ridge State Park to do so. I ran from the group camp to the Fisherman's Trail, out and back on the trail and back to the parking area just past the gristmill. I thought I would never get through the Fisherman's Trail though. After all the storms last week there's a lot of downed trees blocking the path around the loop at the end. I had to do more than just trail running let me tell you. It was a good workout though. We won't even get into the argument we got into with the crazy people that were up in the Group Camp. Needless to say we proved our point and let them know they didn't own the road going up there.

On Saturday, Robin and I got up early and with Clover along with us, we headed to Norris Dam State Park. I got a good 2.5 mile trail run in on the Song Bird Trail while Robin walked just over 2 miles on the trail. It was a beautiful day and not very many people were out there at this time, which we absolutely love. Afterward, we came home and relaxed most of the day, Robin in our Eagle's Nest Outfitters Double Nest Hammock, and I catering to momma's every need. Ain't I a good husband? :P She is working really hard making a baby after all and it definitely takes it's toll.

Sunday we didn't do much. Baby had Robin feeling pretty yucky most of the day. I did make breakfast, lunch and a cake for Robin. She deserves it that's for sure. Afterward we spent a couple of hours at mom and dad's house watching a movie with them and relaxing some more.

Hopefully we can get out this next weekend for a good hike or something and give you all a wonderful trail report. Until next time...

Happy Trails,
Tim and Robin

Trimble Trail Tracks:
Big Ridge - Fishermans Trail Run:


Norris - Songbird Trail Run:

An Earth Day Rescue - A Lesson for Everyone

Tim and I had a magnificent Earth Day. Early in the day, we awoke to a misty, mucky morning. There was quite a bit of rain that moved through early, but it was hit and miss. We lucked out and got a couple of hours of just clouds in order to enjoy an early morning walk at Norris Dam State Park after we dropped Ashby off at school.

Last week, Norris Dam had opened the floodgates due to all the heavy rains the area has had recently. This is a rare spectacle and a treat indeed. Friday morning was a prime opportunity for photographs. The large crowd we'd seen Thursday night was nowhere to be found, and the overcast morning provided a perfect softness to the light.

Multiple shots later, Clover was bugging to go for a sniff. She loves the Songbird Trail, probably because there are so many other dogs and animals that frequent the area. It gives her nose a good workout. So we decided to start our walk by the small fishing pier.

Since we both had our cameras, we usually take turns holding Clover's leash. I had spotted a Goose Family (baby goslings in tote) floating down by the fishing pier, and began slowly approaching to get their photos. I noticed one cute little fluff-ball of a gosling standing on a rock away from the rest of the group. I began snapping away, taking the opportunity to grab some shots of the solo gosling.

It was then that I noticed, as he tried to join the group, that he just sort of toppled off the rock. I watched him get up, bounce back on the rock, stand there a moment, and then once again topple over as he tried to jump in the water. I knew something had to be wrong, so I slowly crept closer only to find that the poor thing was caught up in a tangle of monofilament line that someone had mindlessly and carelessly left lying on the ground. How sad!

Momma goose was not very happy about me approaching her baby, and began to honk, hiss, and lunge at me as I tried to get a handle on how tangled he really was. Tim brought Clover down, and she helped subdue Momma goose long enough for me to figure out the line was tied, multiple times, around the little gosling's leg.

With Clover's help to keep Momma Goose away, I was able to carefully grasp the baby in order to try to unwind the line. But it was no use.  It was just too tangled and knotted up. Thankfully, Tim had his pocket knife and was able to cut the line and free the gosling's leg. We released it back to Momma Goose, and it happily - and freely! - joined the group.

Another good example of why you should ALWAYS clean up after yourself. Please don't ever leave fishing line lying around.

Lake Trail to Old Mill Trail Revisited - Big Ridge State Park - 4/17/2011

This past weekend was a rather hectic and tense one for sure. By Sunday we were ready for the calm and tranquility of the woods. We decided that after our trek the day prior to the Bass Pro and drive in the Great Smoky Mountains, we'd stay close and local considering gas prices continue to sky rocket for no real apparent reason. Robin was itching for a nice easy walk in the woods as her back has been bothering her and she didn't want to do anything to strenuous.

With this in mind we decided to head over to Big Ridge State Park and hit the Lake Trail. You may remember this from our first hike of the year. I've lost count now how many times we've hiked this trail as well as how many times in which direction. Last time we started from the Gristmill and hiked the loop which included the Ole Mill Trail. This time we opted to start from the Campground side and hike it that way. This time though we didn't hit the Loyston Overlook Trail nor the Meditation Point trail.

It was a nice gentle hike on a beautiful spring day. The temps were in the 70's keeping it cool with the sun shining nicely. The trail was in great shape for the most part. There were storms that past through late in the week so there were some muddy spots, washouts, and flooded sections of trail that we had to circumnavigate. The wild flowers were blooming wonderfully. We spotted White Trillium, Bluets, Dwarf Crested Iris, "Sweet Williams" and many more. Come to think of it I don't think I've ever seen the Dwarf Crested Iris blooming here before, of course on all the previous hikes here, I likely wasn't paying much attention.

Starting from the campground, the trail gently climbs the ridge that over shadows the lake to the right of the trail. In the first .2 miles the trail looks like a major washout for the run-off during storms, so the footing is a bit tricky. On the right of trail is the turn for the Meditation Point trail. another .2 miles up the trail the terrain is much easier and there's a nice covered bench to sit and rest if so desired. We sat here for a few minutes to snap some shots of caterpillars and other items of interest. Another .1 mile or so you come to Big Ridge Dam. After crossing the dam, we opted to stay right on the Lake Trail instead of turning left for the Dark Hollow Trail.

The back side of the Lake trail is a pretty easy hike for the most part. The terrain is easy with only minor ascents and descents. There are a total of 4 footbridges from the dam to the end of the trail. At the first bridge we stopped to watch the rushing stream and take a small break. It was at this point that the kiddo decided to take an opportunity to see if Hiking Fiasco would like to feature her trail exploits by laying on the bridge and dropping her cell phone right into the creek. We were actually quite surprised that instead of her typical "What do I do look" she promptly removed both shoes and socks and was in the creek faster than anything I've seen her do (unless she's running the 400 or 800) and retrieved her phone. We figured if it had been one of us in the creek it wouldn't have been such a prompt response (hehehe). Unfortunately, her phone flipped out and we turned it off and stowed it in my pack until we could get it home to dry out. (Oh no, what ever will the kiddo do with text messaging)?

After this fiasco and more photo onward we walked. One cemetery and 3 bridges later we were emerging from the forest and back to the road that runs between the group camp and the gristmill. At this point I asked Robin if she wanted to take the road back to the car or if she wanted to take the Chestnut Ridge trail. She opted instead for the Old Mill Trail that runs along the lake and by the cabins. The Ole Mill Trail is only .3 miles and is a gentle stroll where you can find several wild flowers and evidence of beavers in the area. It only takes a few moments to get to the other end but one should take their time to really check the area out. It is quite interesting seeing all the aquatic life close at hand.

We finally reached the end of the trail and still had to walk past one of the ranger's houses, through a small parking lot by the Tea Room, and past the swimming area of the lake. Final count at the end of the trail was 2.84 miles with only 140+ feet of elevation gain. I might add that along the Lake Trail on this day there was some fresh blow down on the trail from the recent storms. It's nothing to hard to get through though. By the end we were refreshed and a bit more relaxed than before we hit the trail.

Happy Trails,
Tim and Robin

Trail Details on Trimble:

How Much Further? Porter's Creek Trail - GSMNP

We know you've all been jonesin' for another trail report from Appalachia & Beyond. Well this week you're in luck as Robin and I headed out to Porter's Creek in the Greenbrier area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park this past weekend. When I first queried Robin about hiking, she was game. Upon asking where she wanted to hike, she didn't have an answer other than, "I dunno, where do you wanna go?" Robin loves to answer questions with questions. It's more or less an avoidance or stall technique on her part. This time I was prepared with a suggestion.

I figured since we went to Porter's Creek and walked the loop road around the trailhead a couple of weeks ago why not go back to see what new wildflowers had bloomed. So I suggested we hike the Porter's Creek trail to Campsite 31. Robin asked how far it was and I promptly replied with something along the lines of "It's 3 point something miles to the campsite making it 6 point something round trip." To add to this, I included that, "the trail is creek side the whole way." Robin, as well as I, thought that because of this it wouldn't be too bad of a hike, you know mostly flat and cool. I also mentioned that, "it had an elevation gain of 1400 plus feet over the 3. something miles so it would be a gradual climb, nothing to strenuous."

To be quite honest, at the time I hadn't fully researched it, nor had I done the math to realize that it was actually a 7.4 mile hike. I'm sure had I known that and said so, Robin would have likely put the brakes on that trail or suggested we only do part of it. Yes, I'm definitely over ambitious when it comes to hiking, a point that Robin makes almost every time I mention hiking and suggest a trail. What can I say, I like a challenge.

So the trail starts at the end of Greenbrier Rd. Upon reaching the trailhead there was no where to park and we had to park alongside the road, hoping that we wouldn't find a ticket on the window or worse no car due to it being towed. This was only a concern due to a sign stating no parking on the side of the road once we entered the loop road to the trailhead. Once we got parked, we geared up and were ready to head down erm... I mean up the trail.

Porter's Creek was once settled by pioneers and farmers in the late 1800's. This is evident within the first mile of the trail as you see parts of stone walls marking where farmsteads once stood. The first mile of this trail is filled with the history of these earlier settlers. Just past the first set of rock walls, there is a staircase on the right of the trail that leads to the remnants of an old farmstead, complete with a cistern and flattened area where a farm was once located. Just a bit further up the trail is another branch off to the right that in a few yards leads to an old cemetery.

We have been on this part of the trail before, and due to the popularity of this part of the trail, we didn't linger very long. Another fifty yards or so up from the cemetery, is another path on the right of the trail that leads to the remnants of an old Model T Ford. The path is again but a few yards. This is an ideal place to stop for a small break as it is very well shaded. Additionally, if you aren't careful, you might pass the spot up as you only see the path from the trail, the car parts are hard to see from the trail.

At this point you are only a tenth of a mile from the split off the trail back to the Messer farmstead. More about this later as we didn't stop there at this point. This is the most popular destination on the trail and considering it was still early afternoon, there were entirely too many people which means no good shots of the place with the camera. Of course Robin and I had plenty of shots taken by this time as the trail is literally carpeted with all sorts of wildflowers such as different Trillium varieties, White Phaecelia, Crested Dwarf Iris and much more.

Along this portion of the trail you also cross two bridges. One is a regular bridge that park vehicles can pass across. The second bridge is a foot bridge that crosses the creek. The creek at this point is shallow enough to ford yourself if you so desire. This is also a great place to hunt for salamanders.

At the cut off to the farmstead, you can opt to go right to the homestead and the Brushy Mountain Trail, or you can stay left and continue up the trail towards Fern Branch Falls and ultimately to backcountry campsite 31. The trail from this point is no longer gravel road but actual trail and becomes rough with rocks and roots which is typical of the Smokies. About a half mile past this point is the second footbridge. This is probably the longest and likely the scariest footbridge I've been on. Really I wasn't scared but I believe Robin was as once I reached the other side, after Robin already had, her only words were "heights, shaking bridge, and spiders." She was shaking like a leaf.

Robin calmed down shortly after as she engrossed herself in the photographic opportunities at this point. More wildflowers, the rushing creek and the bridge made for a very picturesque picnic setting. This was also a great place to wade in the creek if one so desired, and as hot as it was, we probably should have. Considering we still had a mile and a half to go to the campsite and the hike back we didn't dally long.

We continued up the trail passing the Porter's Flat area which was below the trail and carpeted with White Phaecelia. It was indeed magnificent. There was even an old bear trap on the side of the trail around this area which didn't sit well with Robin, but I assured her it wasn't being used any longer and there was no bait in the trap. I don't think that comforted her much as she is terrified of bears as much as she is spiders.

Onward we hiked after several photos of the flora of the area. From the bear trap it's another half mile or so to Fern Branch Falls. This time of year is a great time to hike to the falls. The spring rains and snow melt had the falls flowing nicely. During the dry season, I hear it's barely a trickle if anything or plain rock face. We stopped here to rest as we were feeling the effects of the sun, the humidity, and the heat.

From the falls, it's another mile up the trail to the campsite. As we trudged along the trail, we wondered if there really was a campsite. It seemed to go on forever. Around every bend in the trail was more trail but we soldiered on like good little troopers should. Of course a snack on the go was required as the time was ticking and we still had what seemed a long ways yet to go. So we pulled out our GoGoSqueez AppleApple Apple Sauce. Once again it was just enough to get us both to wanting more, but provided enough of a boost to keep going.

More flowers, more bends and more trail were ahead of us. We finally got to the campsite before realizing it when Robin stopped and was intent on not going any further. It was then that I looked and seen the marker showing that we indeed reached the campsite. Robin found a log in this area to sit down. She was content on sitting there while I walked around one of the campsites checking it out. There was one group in a campsite up from the trail, but I didn't want to bother them. I was content to look around the lower campsites and found there were bear bag hangers at the site. To be quite honest and to show how green I still am, I had never seen such a contraption before so I found it to be pretty neat.

The day was getting long and we knew that we needed to get to heading back if we were to make it out by sundown. There's no way we wanted to be stuck on the trail in the dark, at least not until we made it back to at least the farmstead. We always carry flashlights with us but the trail past the homestead is just to rough. So we made our merry way back down the trail. A few hundred yards down the trail we met another hiker on his way to the campsite who looked as beat as we did. He asked how much further to the place, and we reassured him it just around the bend and he'd be there. I believe he was relieved to hear that. We chatted for a few more minutes and we all agreed the heat was just brutal. After the pleasant exchange we parted company and in no time were passing the falls again. We stopped for a moment or two to get a few more pictures as the light had changed and it wasn't as sunny in this area.

We continued down the trail and were back to the bear trap before we knew it. We stopped here as well to get a few more shots. Again, on the way up the light was a bit brutal but now it had gone behind the mountain and provided more suitable light for photographing the scenery of the Porter's Flat area. We continued on and were back the long foot bridge. We knew at this point we could take a little more time as it wasn't far from the farmstead and we had plenty of light left. We took the time to grab a few photos of us on the bridge, and I played with slow shutter speed shots of the rushing creek. Robin on the other hand tried to figure out the video on her new camera so she could film the walk across the foot bridge. Unfortunately it's not as intuitive as one might think.

We continued onward to the farmstead. With the time of day, we knew there wouldn't be anyone around and if there was there wouldn't be as many as earlier and thus more conducive for some nice shots. Additionally, the light was absolutely beautiful so Robin was bent on the fact that she wanted to get some shots of the cantilever barn as well as the old Smoky Mountain Hiking Club cabin. If it hadn't been for the light, we likely would have bypassed it and continued on to the trailhead.

After getting the shots we were after we made our way back to the trailhead. As we came off the trail we met the same hiker we chatted with on our way down. He was a bit perplexed as to how he beat us off the trail as he didn't see us. We explained that we stopped off at the Messer Farmstead for some pictures. His look turn from perplexed to deflation at the mention of this. We learned that this was his second trip to the area this year and he still hadn't seen the place. We chatted with him a few more minutes and said our goodbyes. It was time to get to the car and head back home.

We started the hike at 1:00pm and ended it just past 8:00pm. It was a great hike even if it did kick our tails. The wildflowers were amazing and made the trip well worth it, well according to Robin it was only worth it up to the falls, after that it was just pointless (haha). After all was said and done, the total mileage was 7.43 miles and total elevation gain was over 1500 feet. We considered the trail to be moderate to slightly strenuous. The slightly strenuous was likely due to the heat. If you plan to make this hike during the late spring, summer, or early fall, be sure to bring plenty of water. You're going to need it.

Happy Trails,
Tim and Robin

For more pictures of our hike, check out the photostream on our Flickr page.

Hike details on Trimble: