Dayhike - Piney Falls and Stinging Fork State Natural Areas, Grandview and Spring City
This hike uses old roads/trails in the area between the Dan Lawson cabin and Forge Creek Road. These roads/ trails are shown in the 1931 area topo map. Nevertheless, this hike is "off trail," since the old roads are not maintained, and for a short stretch involves bushwhacking through a bit of rhododendron. We'll go up Cades Branch, which runs beside the Dan Lawson Place, cross a low gap to get over into the Whistling Branch watershed, then descend Whistling Branch (crossing #1) for a short distance before ascending Whistling Gap. From there we'll follow some old trails that descend to Mill Creek (crossing #2) and connect with the Cades Cove Loop Road. Along the way we'll see several old house sites and perhaps even a few relics from the 1930s or earlier. A short hike along or parallel to the Loop road get's us back to the Dan Lawson Place.
Distance about 5.5 miles, rated strenuous due to blowdowns and rhododendron. Two creek crossings. One-way drive: 49 miles.
Must pre-register with Ron Shrieves at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for meeting time and location.