Exploring the Appalachian Highlands and Beyond
Exploring the Appalachian Highlands and Beyond
I had never heard of “Rails to Trails” until I moved to Tennessee. Rails to Trails or Rail-Trails are paths created from abandoned railways which are cleared of their tracks and converted to multiuse paths. They are generally flat or gently sloping making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.
On a busy weekend, we often only have a few hours to do a hike. When we’re pressed for time, we like to go to Warriors’ Path State Park. Warriors’ Path is located on the South Holston River in east Kingsport. It’s very accessible, only a 5 minute drive from 81.
On Saturday, we got a big rainstorm. The first thought we have after a storm is “what waterfall should we do tomorrow?”. I love to do waterfalls after a rain, you’re almost guaranteed to have good flow, but you don’t have to worry about a slippery trail or flash flooding like you would the same day as a storm. Lower Higgins Creek Falls is a 60 foot waterfall and the short hike makes this one worth a visit.
Mount Rainier was the 14th National Park we have visited together, and WOW, did it surprise us! I love a park with prominent mountains, hard hikes, and constant views; Mount Rainier certainly delivered.
Sometimes I take for granted how lucky we are to have the Appalachian Trail right in our backyard. I often default to the same couple of AT hikes, but with hundreds of miles accessible within an hour or so, I’ve been trying to explore some new sections! Sam’s Gap to Big Bald is a section I have heard about a couple times over the years.
If you were to ask me for the best waterfall hike in the Appalachian Highlands, I would tell you Laurel Fork Falls.
I’m always looking for a hike close to Johnson City, so I was pleased when I stumbled upon the Lone Oak Trail. The trail is located on the backside of Buffalo Mountain and gives hikers a different view from the mountain. You will eventually hike to Tip Top in Buffalo Mountain Park.