Date: 11/18/2025
Name: Winding Stairs Trail from Cherry Hill
Distance: 5.1
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Total Climbing Elevation: 942
Type: Out & BAck
Notes: We had another sunny day with a cool, 44 °F, start and near 70 °F finish. The trail was dry, but with a heavy covering of dry leaves making the path a bit tricky with some hidden rocks and roots throughout the hike. The real challenge of this hike were the numerous blowdowns from Helene that have yet to be cleared. All of the blowdowns were passable, but at two of the switchbacks it took quite a bit of off-trail bushwhacking to pass by. Fortunately we found easier paths to bypass these blowdowns on our return path. Another challenge today was access to Miuka, Little Miuka and Secret Falls, all requiring a scramble down an embankment made more dangerous by the heavy leaf cover. With all that effort, it was unfortunate that the water flow was quite small in comparison to our March 30, 2023 hike. Nevertheless, was still pleasant to be on the trail on such a nice day. Today's hikers: Lynn Hotle, Renee Corbett, Gregg Nuessly, Jenny Bell & Mike Bell.
AllTrails Link: Winding Stairs Trail from Cherry Hill near Mountain City, SC
Additional Search Terms: November