Savage Gulf Trip Dec 29-31

**ccartertn** · 02-27-2015, 11:29

Originally Posted by Ashe

hey Carter -- yeah I figured as much by looking at the map. isn't there something on the map about a big tree or something off of the North Plateau Trail? I've considered doing that hike just to cross it off my list and check out the side trail to the tree. Is it worth it?

I wish South Cumberland was less stringent on their stay-on-trail rules. I hear they gave the ENTs folks a hard time when they were trying to get permission to measure old-growth trees. there's so much more to explore in that canyon...

Lots of down trees but I didn't see anything about a "big tree". To be honest, I didn't research North Plateau trail beforehand like I normally would when planning. When I got up Sunday morning, it looked like the rain was going to come in earlier than expected and NP looked like it would be an easier hike in the rain and quicker (flatter). I did see a couple of "roads" the trail crossed. I suspect they bisect the big section the NP trail goes around.

**Ashe** · 02-27-2015, 12:21

there's a lot of random dirt roads in the park it seems. I think the rangers keep these open and ride their ORVs into the campsites to check permits. the first time I camped at Sawmill down in the Gulf, I was shocked to see a park ranger strolling into camp at dusk... wondering where the heck he came from when we're several strenuous miles from the trailheads and it's almost dark. lo and behold there's a road leading into camp!

for that same reason it's wise to keep your Jack Daniels under wraps until after Ranger Joe makes his rounds. they're pretty strict on that, I hear.

**Kerrkid** · 02-27-2015, 12:44

Nice pics thanks for sharing, I am heading down to the Savage Gulf Trail at the end of March looking forward to checking it out any tips and or suggestions? I am spending a week down there hope to cover some miles and take in the views.

**Ashe** · 02-27-2015, 13:23

you could cover pretty much all of Savage Gulf in a week. it's hard to go wrong with any route, but I think the Collins Loop is my favorite. The area around Greeter Falls is fun, too, with three nice falls within a mile or so. usually in March the water tables are pretty high and falls are flowing well. if you make it that far into the Gulf be sure to check out Schwoon Spring. it's actually a cave with a creek flowing out and falling back into another cave just below it. the area in front of the cave is great for spring wildflowers.

**Kerrkid** · 02-27-2015, 14:43

I appreciate the info...

**ccartertn** · 02-27-2015, 15:47

Not far up the road is Virgin Falls. Its about a 8 mile round trip down to the falls and back. You can do it as a day trip but coming back out is a steady uphill climb on a rocky trail.

**cjayflo** · 03-05-2015, 17:46

Greeter falls is worth the walk to get to it.

**potneck** · 03-10-2015, 04:54

My only son and best hiking partner died last night of an apparent heart attack. He was here visiting this week. I hugged him and told him I loved him at 10:30 and went to bed. Less than two hours later I watched as they loaded him in an ambulance and I knew he was gone. Little did I know this trip to Savage Falls would be our last. I covet your prayers.

**Junebugdawn** · 03-10-2015, 05:08

Originally Posted by potneck

My only son and best hiking partner died last night of an apparent heart attack. He was here visiting this week. I hugged him and told him I loved him at 10:30 and went to bed. Less than two hours later I watched as they loaded him in an ambulance and I knew he was gone. Little did I know this trip to Savage Falls would be our last. I covet your prayers.

I am so sorry, Potneck. I know your heart is broken. May God give you comfort and peace. Praying for you.