The falls were just a mile from the trail head. We didn't venture further. It was a fun short out…read moreand back and scenic trail. Fun for the dogs. Fun for us to get a little wet too. This water feeds right into Burton Lake which is beautiful. I had planned to summit Double Spring Knob as my 16th 4ker in Georgia but Wildcat Road was closed for maintenance and it was another 7 mile hike from the closure, something I might have run, but today was a family weekend, and I think I made the right call. Double Knob will have to wait another day.

A beautiful but challenging walk to see several waterfalls…read more The trailhead for this is across from the Moccasin Creek Campground. There is a short drive down the gravel road to get to the walking trailhead. Do not forget to purchase a $5 parking pass from somewhere (online or at the Mocassin Creek Campground office). You can take the chance of not having a parking pass but I would not recommend it. I went there in the fall and the path was covered in leaves which is both beautiful and dangerous as the trail is covered in roots and rocks which the leaves cover very well. The walk to the lower falls is about 1.5 miles and to the upper falls is another 0.5 miles. I thought it was worth it for several reasons. There are more than just these two falls if you keep your eyes open along the path and the walk is very pretty. The walk can be very challenging as there are several places where you have to go over/under trees, the path is very narrow and slippery and the small bridge only has one railing and the entire path has lots of rocks and roots. It is an out-and-back trail. The upper falls are not large but are unique in their way with several rocks to sit on and enjoy the view and serenity. Overall, it was well worth the trip and I would recommend it to fellow travelers.

I never met a waterfall that I didn't like. We did a driving tour along Little River in Great Smoky…read moreMountains National Park to see if we could spot some wildlife. The Sinks is a lovely waterfall along the river. There is a small parking lot with about a dozen spaces where we found parking. An observation area is a short walk from parking. A sign describes the area and that the falls were manmade. During the late 1800's the river was used to transport logs/timber to the nearby town of Elkmont. After a storm, flood waters caused a jam in the river. Dynamite was used to restore water flow. The blast resulted in a twist in the river and creation of the waterfall. A set of stone steps leads up a hill, offering lovey views of the falls. There are dozens of waterfalls in the Park. Sinks is one of the few that is drivable, which is great for people that cannot hike. I picked up a Waterfalls map at the visitor center that I found interesting and informative. Parking passes are required to park in the lot. There are no amenities at the falls. Plan 15-30 minutes for a stop and photos.

The Sinks is such a fun outdoor experience! Our boys, ages 11 & 13, loved it! The parking is not…read moregreat though, with only about 15 spots in the parking lot and nowhere else to go. It's super busy in the summer, so just be prepared for that. We had to wait about 15 minutes for someone to leave so we could park. That wouldn't keep us from going back, though.

This is the best waterfall we got to visit in SC this far. After we left Reedy Branch Falls we…read moredrove here. Well, as close as we could get. I didn't realize that we couldn't drive all the way to the trailhead so we had a long hike in store due to me having to carry my toddler most of the time. I should have re-read the previous reviews before coming. My friend did help me carry her as well and for that I was very thankful. So definitely don't recommend this hike with a little one unless strapped in a carrier. Also, I don't recommend it for the elderly either. It's definitely a wilderness hike deal with roots and elevation change. In fact, it's mostly downhill on the way to the falls, but on the way back it's pretty much all uphill, which was not fun with aforementioned young child. It's about a half mile to the actual trailhead and then another 0.7 mile to the falls. That's about 2.4 miles round trip. The reason of course that my boys absolutely became enamored with this place is the large swimming hole. It is wonderful and has plenty of space. The waterfall itself is beautiful and although it's not as tall as others, its width is quite impressive. I was trying to get as close as I could and even noticed a hidden part of the falls inside of the rock structure. That was so cool!! The sand at the base and shore give it a beachy vibe. We definitely packed it in and out making sure not to leave anything behind as to preserve the area as best as possible. Needless to say we were wiped by the time we made it back to our vehicles, but we're still glad we decided to venture here. Coming back with my hubby and boys in the very near future. Happy yelping!

I just wanted to update my 3/15/20 review below to add I've now done this hike several times, but…read moreTHIS time I had the chance to hike it with a friend who is directly related to the namesake of the waterfall... Riley Moore. Sandie is a church friend of mine and Riley Moore was her Great Great Uncle (I believe that's right). He once upon a time operated a grist mill here at the top of the falls. She's been trying to get here to see the waterfall, but couldn't find it and wanted to join us (along with her family) since I knew the way. Upon further research I discovered there are actually still remnants of the mill including visible drill holes, spikes and bolts. Thought that was pretty cool info to share! [ [ [ PREVIOUS REVIEW ] ] ] Riley Moore Falls is small in height but HUGE in personality. It's located off State Road S37-748, which is a nicely maintained gravel road where cars and trucks alike can comfortably traverse. ~~~ DIRECTIONS From Westminster, SC - DO NOT turn onto Cobb Bridge Road from Long Creek Hwy (Hwy 76) where you will see the brown & white sign pointing you in the direction of Riley Moore Falls. Our GPS had us go this way, then left onto State Road S37-748, but the road was CLOSED during our visit! INSTEAD, turn onto PU-32 also known as Rocky Fork Road. Turn left onto a gravel road near Rocky Fork Baptist Church and follow that until it dead ends @ State Road S37-748 (also known as Spy Rock Road). Turn right and drive approx. 1.4 miles (4 minutes) to 748c (aka Riley Moore Shoals Road). Park at the intersection of State Road S37-748 and 748c. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DRIVE 748c in a car or minivan. Low clearance vehicles will find the terrain on this road to be VERY difficult to navigate without bottoming out or getting stuck. I'd also recommend 4x4 capability on wet days! There can be several deep-pocketed muddy areas after heavy rains. ~~~ THE TRAIL Once you reach the intersection of Spy Rock Rd (S37-748) and 748c, park roadside on Spy Rock, secure your vehicle and begin your hike approx. 1/2 mile down the "primitive road." IF you have a high ground clearance SUV or truck, you can drive the primitive road another half mile or so to a second parking area near the trailhead. The primitive road is VERY BUMPY  and can be muddy in spots after heavy rains, so a 4x4 is best. After reaching the second parking area, follow the marked trail on the left!!! The trail is a little over a 1/2 mile to the falls from here. The trail is fairly straightforward and easy to follow. ~~~ THE FALLS Once you reach the Chauga River, you will notice a large sandy area with plenty of room for an entire horde of hikers!!! Riley Moore Falls is not very tall (only about 12 feet), but it is very wide and has a deep base pool. PRO TIP - Bring swimwear, towels and a picnic, but be sure to pack it in and pack it out. ~~~ THINGS TO KNOW Hiking Distance: 2 miles (round trip to falls from S37-748) Difficulty of hiking 748c: All downhill to trailhead (moderate return) Difficulty of hiking trail to falls: EASY Creek Crossings: NO Elevation Gain: 357 feet Waterfall Height: Approx 12 feet Access to top of falls: NO - not without getting wet Access to base of falls: YES Pool of water @ base of Falls: YES Sitting areas @ base: YES + sandy beach RESTROOMS: NO PARKING: YES (along road) + secondary parking area closer to trailhead for trucks and high ground clearance vehicles with room for about 6 cars. ~~~ [ FINAL THOUGHTS ] A lovely waterfall in any season, but also a great spot for a summer swim. While we had the waterfall practically to ourselves during our Mid-March expedition, be advised other trail website reviews say it gets trashy & crowded in summer months. What a shame if that is true because it truly is a treasure. ENJOY! 2022 / 74 #UPDATE 178

Edge of the World is a great nearby walking trail that winds along Amicalola Creek. The trail is…read moremostly easy, with a mix of wooden walkways (watch out for a few holes) and dirt paths. There are also a few side trails that climb up the mountain if you're looking for a bit more of a challenge (including dodging Joro spiders!). The small waterfalls are beautiful, and the cool creek water is perfect for dipping your feet in on a warm day.

Loved the Edge of the World! All I could think in my head was the song, it's the end of the world…read moreas we know it, & I feel fine. The Edge of the World is a landscape we never see. It was semi difficult hike just because we live in Florida and use to live in Illinois (AKA Flatland), but we did it. The easiest way to this is from the parking lot, walk to the left and walk down the stairs. Keep walking on the boardwalk and watch for holes in the boardwalk. When the boardwalk is done, keep walking and then you will come to trees, the trees have steps made from the trees, & carefully watch your step and go down. I actually scooted my butt down and then climbed the tree steps. It was not bad, just something I'm not accustomed to. You will see the water and rocks moving and it is just so beautiful. People walk through and sit in the water and take pics. Be careful when you walk through it can be slippery. We had water shoes. Water is so refreshing. We actually walked the long way, which is walking to the right of the parking lot to the start of the boardwalk. We didn't want to walk down the stairs bc they looked pretty steep. It really is amazing. I'd say you will be here about an hour or two. Parking is free and there are a bunch of signs you need a fishing license. Which we don't have. We just parked And walked!

Great spot! We hiked 6 miles of wonderfully shaded, easily walkable trails. Would love to plan a…read moreboys trip for mountain bike riding.

There are 14 miles of trails, "fast and flowing, with rolling dips & berms, and only a few…read moretechnical areas. They take you along the shores & hills beside Lake Chatuge." The main central loop is considered "easy and nearly level." All lies and I was on foot! After stumbling over tree roots and trudging through dead leaves & mud I soon realized, I don't like hiking. I like nature walks! Pretty, paved, moderate, you get my drift. That being said, Jackrabbit Mountain Trails are lovely! Parking is free. There are pit toilets, maps & information, air pumps & tools. There's a hose to rinse off and a grassy field with picnic tables & grills by the lake. The trail was created for bikers in so I walked alone as they politely zoomed past. The trails are well-worn so you won't get lost and there are colored stickers on the trees every mile or so. There are no benches to stop and rest. But there are educational signs on trees and plants. I met the sassy 'Sassafrass,' the 'Oriental Bittersweet Plant' (which really needs to stop threatening the others), and the beautiful, slow growing, long lived 'White Oak' which can reach 135 feet! Because it was Fall, I couldn't take my eyes off of the trees. I've never seen such brilliant colors! The beautiful golden yellows, bronze and burnt orange leaves were really breathtaking. Then I saw the peaceful, still waters of Lake Chatuge and fell in love! Of course a loud boat sped past and messed up all that tranquility but it was still worth it. I'll return and I'll bring my bike!

These falls are beautiful. I highly recommend checking them out. If you want a longer hike start at…read morethe Oconee Station State Historic Site. There are bathrooms there. If you prefer an easier, shorter hike then drive past the historic site and the trailhead, and parking, are on the left. If you start at the historic site, know that you will eventually just be crossing that same street to get to the trailhead.

We started our adventure and family hike #8 (sans toddler - insert sad face) at Oconee Station…read moreState Historic Site. We also combined the Interpretive Nature Trail with the Station Cove Trail, which made for a longer, albeit nice hike around 3.1 miles. There's about a 260 ft. elevation gain, but wooden steps help with this ascent and then descent. Usually such a long walk would make my leg muscles ache the next day, but strangely enough I felt no soreness. I guess that means that I'm finally in shape enough to handle longer hikes. Woohoo! The large pond or small lake, depending on your opinion of what a body of 4 acres should be, was beautiful and shimmering in green and blue hues. Didn't see any fish or other creatures in it, but it is supposed to be full with bluegill and largemouth bass. Maybe we'll return for some fishing. Not long after the nature trail joins the falls trail you'll cross over Oconee Station Rd. There is an area for parking cars and from here the trail to the waterfall is about 0.75 mile, so if you prefer a shorter version this is it. I loved seeing the flowers starting to bloom and caught some good pictures of bloodroots and hepaticas. Down by one of the creeks an open area under a rock revealed animal footprints (maybe a raccoon?), which was cool to spot. There were more than a few trees down (probably from Hurricane Helene), but not completely obstructing the trail. As you approach the waterfall you step over some rocks from Station Creek to the other side. I'm glad that we had a good rainfall the day before, because it made for a great rush of water. Truly beautiful and my favorite falls discovered so far. We did run into a few people so it's definitely not an isolated area by any means (and we went on a Monday morning) although we did not meet another soul on the nature trail. Also, between the 3rd and 4th bridge is the Oconee Connector Trail which leads to Oconee State Park in case you want to add another 5.4 miles (I think) round trip to this one, but beware it apparently has an 800 ft. elevation change. Maybe one day I'll brave it. Overall, this was a great hike and our boys really enjoyed the beauty of the waterfall and easily travailed it. Looking forward to come back one day soon! Happy yelping!

My third tour this season with Justin and Aimee! I learn something new each tour. It is a MUST…read morewhen visiting Highlands or even if you live there!

We had an AMAZING time with Justin and Highland Excursions! My husband & I have been to Highlands…read moremany times, but we thought it would be fun to actually learn about the area and go see some areas we hadn't seen yet (like Satulah mountain). What a great decision! My husband commented that we should have started our week this way (instead of our last day). We went to a section to hike that we never would have tried (as it's on the Highlands Cashiers Land Trust) that was a beautiful hike with amazing views. Justin was a delightful guide, providing a rich history of the area. We also enjoyed talking geology with Justin, who was a wealth of information. Even if you've been to Highlands & Cashiers many times, treat yourself to a Highlands Excursion to see the beautiful waterfalls, mountain ranges & more. You won't regret it! Can't wait til the next time!

Stonewall Creek Falls is located on the trail known as Stonewall Falls & White Twister Mountain…read moreBike Trail. It's an 11.5 mile trail used most often by mountain bikes (as the name would imply) and has multiple wet creek crossings. The parking area & trailhead are off Stonewall Creek Road, also known as Crooked Oak Road on one end and Carleton English Road on the other. Three names in less than 3 miles of road, but you would only know this if you are looking at Google Maps. [ DIRECTIONS ] The trailhead is approx. 1.3 miles from paved South Main Street in Tiger, GA. The road is gravel with no signage, but a small utility building with two power boxes surrounded by a chain link fence sits right on the corner. The road is a touch bumpy and is best for trucks, Jeeps, SUV's and vehicles with more clearance, but a car COULD make it through. [ THE TRAIL ] You'll know you've arrived when you reach a small forest service gate with a niche large enough for about 3 cars. There is also sufficient room for several more cars to park roadside. The Mountain Bike Trail has a 1492 foot elevation change and encompasses some of the roadway past the parking area. However, to get to the waterfall, go through the gate, cross the small creek and continue left downhill for about 1/2 mile. The waterfall will come into view near a large open camping area. [ THE FALLS ] The easiest waterfall to reach is the one at the camping area. It's approximately 20 feet tall. HOWEVER, there is another waterfalls upstream of the main falls, but it is difficult to reach. Scouting reports I have read say to use a steep side trail 100 yards or so further uptrail past the falls. You will see two faint trails and I've been told the first of the two is the better option, but be careful, BOTH are STEEP. I tried the second trail (didn't know the first trail was the better option at the time) and only made it halfway before turning back. It felt against my better judgement to try this alone with my tiny little dog. So I plan to come back on another day when I have another crazy adventurer with me for support (and possibly a 911 call). Just slightly upstream from the main falls is an easier path to Stonewall Creek. My thought is to try to wade through the river to the upper falls, which are far prettier according to some of the pics I've witnesses on hiking trail galleries: https://mtnimages.smugmug.com/Hiking-With-Mtnimages/Hike-to-Stonewall-Creek/i-bdsqddz/A TIP - If you hike upstream looking for the side trail to the upper falls and make it to a creek crossing, you've gone too far! There is also another waterfall downstream of the main falls, but requires some mountain goat skills and bushwacking, which I'm hoping to get into this summer as I want to trailblaze to more remote waterfalls. [ THINGS TO KNOW ] Hiking Distance: 1 miles (round trip to main falls) Difficulty: Easy & family friendly (main waterfall) Difficulty: Strenuous & dangerous (upper and lower falls) Creek Crossings: YES (1) small stream at the beginning Elevation Gain: n/a Waterfall Height: Approx 18-20 feet (main) Access to top of falls: NO Access to base of falls: YES Pool of water @ base of Falls: YES Sitting areas @ base: YES + camping area RESTROOMS: NO PARKING: YES (3+ cars) [ FINAL THOUGHTS ] I enjoy hiking very much! The beauty, serenity and adventure calls to me and the peace that comes from such adventures is simply unmatched. The only thing that disturbs my hiking serenity is when I can't reach my destination. I'm stubborn and bullheaded like that! The first waterfall was nice, but my mission was to see all three, or at the very least the main falls AND the upper falls.... so I left disappointed. Still, it was one of several waterfalls I toured today as I scouted new trails for my hiking groups 2020 expeditions. This is a great short hike to add to other longer hikes when looking to fill up a day. NOTE TO SELF: Be better prepared next time with trail map downloads and GPS trackers that work even offline to better navigate to falls that are off-trail. Also, bring a machete just in case some light bushwacking is required. 2020 / 9

I love this places, beautiful, relaxing. I love to end here after mountain biking trails. Is not…read morecrowded place

Great new trail system in Murphy, NC! I can't wait to see how it develops and progresses over the…read moreyears. The Inner Lopp was great and a nice short loop for my 5yr old to go on for his first ever MTB trail ride. Trails are groomed pretty well and I can't wait to go back and try the 5 mile Gobbler Trail. Make sure to drive a vehicle you don't mind getting scratched by brush and can handle a moderately rough gravel access road. No way I'd take a nice car down this road. Trails aren't marked as you enter but are further up the trail where it has a junction. I'm sure this will change as the more permanent signs are made. Currently there are only two loops. You can go either way when the trail forks as they both return you back to the main trail head. The map on the website is what's planned for the future so don't plan your trip around that. I've added a pic of the current map that's at the junctions. I'm excited to see more recreation opportunities in Murphy. There are more trails in progress so stay tuned people, this a wonderful addition to the area.

Gobbler loop is a longer variation than Grape Smuggler. Super clean trail. Minimal human…read moreinteraction! Very relaxing. There were signs throughout telling you how far you had till the end. The gravel road is a challenge! The first half mile is the hardest on your vehicle! Don't give up, when you make it past there, it gets easier!