Four hikers celebrated the Independence Day trekking the Rock Creek Trail, beginning at Retro Hughes trailhead. The trail was well blazed and easy to follow. It began with a level path of pine needles but soon descended on dirt-packed switchbacks and rock steps to the bottom of the gorge. We crossed Rock Creek on an amazingly well built bridge, surrounded by white blooming rhododendrons. Passed a nice campsite along the creek,then gradually ascended along side the bluffs. The two remaining bridges were in a bit of disrepair. After lunch we hiked 0.1 mile further to the Rock Creek overlook. Other than being a quite hot and humid day, a long walk back and ascent on the the 2.5 miles, the return to Retro Hughes wasn't too bad. I missed trail turns only twice, watching the path instead of the Blazes, bet we encountered our Copperhead friend on one of my missteps. The trail was 10.8 miles with elevation gain of 1850 feet.
If you would like to see some pictures taken during this hike, click here. If you are having trouble viewing the pictures through the TTA website, please go directly to the BLOG at www.sdctta.blogspot.com.