August Hike: Abrams Falls GSMNP
I've started hiking again after years of being overweight and I've been going once a month since April. Last month I went to Mouse Creek Falls, this month takes me to Abrams Falls in the Cades Cove section of the Great Smoky Mts. The falls are fed by Abrams Creek that drains the entire Cades Cove area all the way up to Thunderhead Mt and Rocky Top. During the dry spell we have been dealing with its a sure thing that this waterfall won't dry up. Abrams Falls is named after Chief Abram of the Cherokees who was murdered by men working for John Sevier, Tennessee's first governor.
The trail is 5mi roundtrip and mostly follows the creek with the exception of two ridges the creek circumvents while the trail continues over. It would be an easy hike if you didn't have to climb the two ridges. The sign is correct, it took us 4hrs with a lunch break.
For most of the trail you follow along the water. Trout fishing is good here and heres a fisherman, though he's hard to see.
Heres the top of the first climb, Arbutus ridge. A nice breeze greeted us as we crested.
A good spot to rest and take some pictures. Here's me and my sister, Melanie.
Mrs. Bridge, Robin.
2.5mi later as you desend the second ridge you come to Wilson Creek. A side feeder to Abrams but an intersting slide.
