On April11, The Soddy Daisy Chapter of the Tennessee Trails
Association packed up and headed for a three day
adventure in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. We had
excellent accommodations in the 3 bedroom deluxe cabins at Pickett State Park
located approximately 2 miles from the western park entrance and very near the
trails that traverse one of the most diverse geological areas in the eastern
U.S.
The first afternoon we began by exploring Hazard Cave, an
Indian rock house, the swinging bridge over a beautiful little lake and the
natural bridge, all at Picket State Park.
The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we headed for the Twin
Arches and Charit Creek Loop trails. It soon became clear that this was no
ordinary hike. From the first view of
two of the largest natural arches west of the Mississippi River to the
cavernous rock houses that seem to appear around every turn in the trail, we
were all captivated. We soon found ourselves in a beautiful valley literally
walking among wild flowers and beside a babbling brook. We lunched at the picnic tables at the Charit
Creek hostel where we relaxed while enjoying picturesque views. Afterwards we were faced with a long steep
slog up the other side of the loop back to the arches with some challenging
stairs, up to the top of the arches and the end of the loop.
Following a refreshing shower and lots of spaghetti, we
relaxed around the campfire and prepared for our hike on the Middle Creek Trail
on our last morning. Again, we were not disappointed, lots more beautiful rock
houses, and a forest of Hemlocks, Rhododendron and Mountain Laurel. Would love
to return in a month when they are in full bloom.
This area is surely a keeper. To see some pictures of this hike, click here.