We all saw the waterfall at the end of the Abrams’ Falls trail. And Ashlan saw a bear.
We also saw a lot of cars driving slowly along the 11 mile circuit that is the Cades Cove loop in the Smokie Mountain National Park. The road was like a small childs roller-coaster, rising and falling with the terrain, and going round full circle. The average speed is maybe 10 mph. Many trucks had their beds filled with people looking into the woods and across the fields. Once you realize that nobody is going to drive the 20 mph speed limit it is easier to accept.
The Abram’s Falls trail was at the halfway point of the loop. A 5 mile round trip hike through the forest, along the creek and up and over about 3 ridges. The description we had seen indicated an elevation gain of about 350 feet. What it didn’t say was you did this gain and loss about 3 times, there and then back again. The end of the trail is at the foot of a 20 foot waterfall. Many people were enjoying the cool water in the good sized pool at the foot of the falls. This is apparently a local favorite, based on the number of young folk making the trek with beach towels in hand. It was a nice hike, a good distance to stretch your legs and see some beautiful sights. It reminded me a bit of the hike between the lower and upper Tahquamenon Falls, but with more height to gain and fewer bugs.
We returned to Jefferson City with just enough time to get changed and head to the ballpark for our final game with the Smokies. They lost 6-4. It was a fun game nonetheless.
We returned to Rey’s apartment in two shifts – Carl & Ashlan, and later Rey & Jay. Both had the same thought and went shopping to replenish Rey’s diminished stores. So now he has food to last a bit.
We are readying ourselves to leave shortly. Packing the last of the clothes and into the car to head south to Atlanta.
Raincharm's Weblog 