May 30, 2015
9.8 Miles Total
9.8 New Miles
432.09 Total Smoky Miles to Date (Since November 2013)
119.9 Total Miles in 2015
Flat Creek Falls
2.6 Miles
Nice, quite, peaceful trail. I would recommend starting at the first trail head on Balsam Mountain Road rather than at the second trail head like we did. We had an uphill climb at the end by starting at the other trail head. The creek crossing was only difficult for me because of having such short legs. It should be fine for those less vertically challenged.
Spruce Mountain Trail
2.4 Miles of Torture!!!
I wouldn't recommend this trail to anyone who doesn't have to do it to mark their map. It is a straight up climb for 1.2 Miles. Nothing to see until you get to the top and then all there is is an old campsite. This trail used to connect to Polls Gap Trail (which is no longer included on the park map). The trail is overgrown and not maintained. Once you reach the top you rest at the campsite, then it is straight down hill for 1.2 back to the car. This is an in and out trail with no connections to other trails. I was waiting to hear the Rocky Theme Song when we made it to the top!
Balsam Mountain and Beech Gap 1
4.8 Miles
The elevation map of Balsam Mountain Trail made it look like it would be a lovely, easy walk in the woods. It was not at all! It felt like we would never get to the top! At least there were lovely flowers to look at along the way. We knew Beech Gap was going to hurt on the way down but I don't think we were prepared. Not only was it straight down, it was rocky with quite a few slippery creek crossings. I wouldn't recommend this one if you have knee problems. At least I did get to see my first rhododendron of the year, which made me very happy. And the mountain laurel was amazing!
I am very blessed to be able to spend my weekends in such a beautiful area. Even though it is challenging and sometimes I don't feel like going. I am always happy that I ignored the voices that said "its gonna hurt, its too hot, it might rain, etc" and go. The rewards are always worth the effort.
Onto the next adventure!
