| Today’s hike was on the Panther Creek Trail from Panther Creek Park on old Highway 441 to lower Panther Creek Fallsand back.
HIKERS – Phil Brownrigg, Greta Driggers, Bill Hunt, Linda Johnson, Dick Metzgar, Bruce O’Connor, Jeanne O’Connor, Don Preece, Joe Raguckas, Vic Robson, Bob Thomnpson, Carole Wintle. TRAIL INFO. – The Panther Creek Trail is in good shape. There has been recent trail maintenance and some re-routing which bypasses the rock crevice climb that we normally encounter. The trail follows closely along Panther Creek as you make your way down to Panther Creek Falls, located at the 3.6 mile mark. Carefull footing is necessary as you walk near rock cliffs. Directions: Panther Creek Park is about 3 miles south of Tallulah Falls, GA. Take Highway 441 northward toward Tallulah Falls, GA. After passing Hollywood (traffic light) continue on 441 for a several miles and turn left at the billboard for “The Orchard” and then turn right on Historic Hwy 441 and continue until you see the sign for Panther Creek Park turn left into the park. Another great day for a hike! Fair, and cold. Temperatures ranged from 27 to 37 degrees F. Hiking distance – 7.2 miles. FLOWERS IN BLOOM: none – Some prominent winter plants seen, out of many: Pipsissewa, Partridgeberry, Cane (Arundinaria), Dog hobble, Christmas fern, Beard lichen, Galax and Ground Cedar. BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Pileated woodpecker, junco |
 Crossing the foot-bridge with care on a frosty morning! |
 An early morning view down the creek. |
 Crossing a small creek. |
 This section of the trail runs beside Panther Creek on solid rock. |
 A narrow section of trail beside massive rock cliffs. |
 Looks like some beavers have been busy! . |
 The rock shoals above the falls. |
 Panther Creek Falls. |
 Break time below the falls. |
 Lunchtime at Panther Creek. |
 Many beautiful spots along Panther Creek! |
 The OFHC gang for today’s hike. (l-r front) Dick Metzgar and Bruce O’Connor. (l-r standing) Carole Wintle, Don Preece, Linda Johnson, Jeanne O’Connor, Joe Raguckas, Phil Brownrigg, Greta Driggers, Vic Robson, Bob Thompson and Bill Hunt. |