Date: 08/04/2020
Name: Smithgall Woods-Laurel Ridge & Ash Creek Loop
Distance: 6.6
Difficulty: Easy
Total Climbing Elevation: 912
Type: 2-Loops
Notes: Great day for a hike today with sunny skies, starting temperatures around 65 degrees ending at the mid-80's. We reached the start of the Ash Creek Loop after a short walk down the Tsalaki Trail (paved access road). The trail is in good condition and an easy 4.6-mile walk. We did have a short water crossing across Dukes Creed at the beginning the Ash Creek Loop, but it could have been done bare foot with care since there were some slippery rocks. Even after a rain the day before, the water level was just above ankle height except for the first few steps which were at mid-calf. The water temperature was actually quite pleasant and would have made a nice stop. We made a second, shallow and shorter water crossing further down the trail at Ash Creek. Toward the end of the loop, we came upon a beautiful wildflower field dominated with Bachelor Buttons (a.k.a Cornflowers). We were surprised by the the large number of wildflowers still in bloom on this segment of the hike. After returning to the parking area we hiked the 2- mile Laurel Ridge Trail. This trail has nice high cover with a path of many exposed roots on the first half, mostly climbing, and then hard clay and small, loose stones on the way down and back. This trail is moderately difficult due to the climbing and trail condition, but well worth the hike since at the high point of the trail it has an excellent open vista looking toward Yonah and Pink Mountains. No significant wildflowers in bloom at this time on this trail.
AllTrails Link: Smithgall Woods-Laurel Ridge & Ash Creek Loop
Additional Search Terms: August