Two hikers decided to endure the hot, humid weather Saturday. We did a shuttle hike, parking one car at the Stinging Fork Falls trailhead and then the other car at the parking lot for Piney River and Soak
Creek. There is a very short roadwalk to begin the trail, which is initially on private land. For 1.5 miles, the trail follows along Soak Creek with rocky bluffs on the left of the path. Next, rock steps, very slippery and wet, lead the way up the bluff, followed by a descent to the creek. And so it goes, up and down, down and up, nature's beautiful stair master. Eventually a short spur by the creek leads to Stinging Fork Falls, a refreshing refuge to refuel (lunch), cool off and admire the cascading water. The rest of the hike ascends multiple wooden ladders and rocks to reach the top of the bluff, followed by an easy walk to the trailhead. The Trail is 7.1 miles with an elebvation gain of 1680 feet.
If you would like to see some beautiful pictures taken during the hike, click here.