What a perfect day for a hike. Upon meeting at the trailhead, the temperature was around 67 degrees, very low humidity, sunny skies & a low variable cool breeze. This hike started off very easy for the first ¼ mile, but once you pass the campground and begin the descent down to Suter Falls, the terrain becomes rocky with a sharp down hill climb. We could hear the roaring sound of Suter Falls and the anticipation to see its glory was overwhelming. We continued further down the trail and “enjoyed” a little boulder hopping and more rock scrambling till we reached the overlook at Suter Falls and the Collins River. What an awesome view! With all the rain we have had lately, the river was flowing in full force. We then made the semi-circle turn into the rock canyon to get better views of the falls and to continue on the trail. After we crossed over the Collins River via the swinging bridge, we made it to “Fantasy Island”. If you have never been, I highly encourage it! Take a lunch and enjoy the falls. We continued on to explore the Housepound Falls. The trail had several more areas of rock scrambling and boulder hopping but nothing too crazy. Once the terrain became less rocky, we began a further decent to the second falls. We proceeded another 1 ½ miles and finally arrived at the exquisite Housepound Falls. Like Suter Falls, it was “gushing” from the flow of the Collins River. Everyone took a snack/lunch break and enjoyed the sights and sounds of the river. We then retraced our steps and returned to the main trailhead. Fortunately, most of the uphill climb back included several switchbacks and flatter areas to take short hydration breaks and catch your breath. This was a great hike but tough due to the terrain and 870’ elevation gain on the return trip, especially for a Tuesday hike. Although everyone preserved and finished the full 5 mile out & back hike (with one hiker doing the full loop - 12 mile hike), all seemed to enjoy the awesome views which made the journey much more enjoyable. Hikers included TTA Scenic City members: Tim Booth (hike leader), Tammy Hendrick, Susan Kroll, Barbara Hill, Tom McElhone, Bob Anderson, Betsy Darkin and one TTA Murfreesboro member: Sara Pollard. (Submitted by: Tim Booth)
If you would like to see some great pictures taken during this hike, click here or on the photo to the right.
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