6/17/2014 Panther Creek Trail – GA

HIKERS: Karen Brown, Kaytlyn Brown, Phil Brownrigg, Greta Driggers, Jim Driggers, Stephen Gales, David Hinson, Bill Hunt, Kim Johnson, Bob Magee, Dick Metzgar, Don Preece, Donna Presley, Tony Presley, Suzanne Reid, Paul Reid, Sandy Robson, Vic Robson.

TRAIL INFO. – One of the most popular trails in the state of Georgia, this trail is beautiful as it follows Panther Creek from Highway 441 near Tallulah Falls 8 miles to Yonah Dam. We hiked out 3.5 miles to Panther Creek Falls and back. Even though the trail is extremely popular, it has some very dangerous footing and extra care must be taken, especially as you approach the falls.

Total hiking distance today – 7.3 mi. with a few moderate hills. We rate it moderately difficult due to risky footing near the falls.

Directions: Panther Creek Park is about 3 miles south of Tallulah Falls, GA. From the south, take Highway 441 northward toward Tallulah Falls, GA. After passing Hollywood (traffic light) continue on 441 for a several miles and turn left and then turn right on old 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! Mostly Sunny and very warm with temperatures ranging from 70 to 84 degrees F.

WILDFLOWERS IN BLOOM: Butterfly Pea, Spiderwort, Whorled Loosestrife, White Clover, Japanese Spirea, Climbing Hydrangea, Mt. Hydrangea, Hawkweed, Oxeye Daisy, Rosebay Rhododendron, Carolina Rhododendron, Galax, Indian Pipe, Blue-eyed Grass, Yarrow, Elderberry, Large Bluet, Fire Pink, Heal All, Smooth Phlox, Queen Anne’s Lace, Flowering Spurge, Sweet Shrub.

BIRDS IDENTIFIED: Black & White Warbler, Pine Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, American Crow, Cardinal, Pileated Woodpecker, White-breasted Nuthatch and Robin.