Chestnut Top, Schoolhouse Gap and White Oak Sinks

Chestnut Top, Schoolhouse Gap and White Oak Sinks
April 18, 2015
6.4 Miles Total
4.3 New Miles
396.49 Total Smoky Miles to Date (Since November 2013)
84.3 Total Miles in 2015

Flowers, Flowers, Flowers!!!

We started on Schoolhouse Gap and went about a mile to the horse gate on the left, which is how you get to White Oak Sinks.  Schoolhouse Gap is an easy stroll in the park.  White Oak Sinks is easy on the way in but a bit of a short climb to get back out of.  Once you get down in White Oak Sinks there are several small trails to explore.  They don't go far because the park has closed off the cave and the waterfall to let the bats recover.  The poor little bats came down with White Nose Syndrome.  

We came down Chestnut Top, which is what I would recommend unless you like climbing.  It's a little hard on the knees coming down but in the spring you don't notice because there are so many beautiful flowers to enjoy.  

This hike was like spending a day in heaven.  Blue skies, creepy crawlies and beautiful flowers everywhere!  Enjoy!

Until the next adventure......

Ramsey Cascades

Ramsey Cascades
April 4, 2015
8 Miles Total
0 New Miles
390.09 Total Smoky Miles to Date (Since November 2013)
77.9 Total Miles in 2015

If you love a challenge, this is a great hike for you!

Difficult creek crossings, boulder climbing, trail that literally turns into a creek and a log bridge that is very high and not so steady are all part of this trail.

The wildflowers aren't really out yet on this trail but the bears are....

The trees were massive.

It is a beautiful hike that everyone should try at least once in their life.  

When you get to the last half mile or so, 

you will be climbing up and over boulders all the way until you reach the falls.

The falls are powerful and much taller than you expect.  

The pictures don't even do justice to how they look in person.

 So grateful to live in such a beautiful area and for being able to get out and enjoy it every week!