Fri, Jan 3 2014 - Upper Whitewater Falls to Lower Whitewater Falls (View Original Event Details) Trip Leader(s): John Stirman, Chad C Participants: Ray Strubinger, Chad C, John Stirman, Jenelle, Allan, Kevin, Jeff Gimpel

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     Mid 20’s and bright clear skies… that’s perfect hiking weather for seven hardy Happy Hikers to all ride together in Chad’s trusty van and head north to the trailhead of Whitewater Falls (just over the SC/NC state line).  The falls are located in rugged and undeveloped areas of the Nantahala National Forest and we had all the well-marked trails to ourselves almost the entire 9+ mile hike!  From the parking area it was only a short walk to the 154 steep steps that lead down to the viewing platform for the (411’ drop) Upper Whitewater Falls in NC.  After taking some great pics and enjoying the view, we then followed white and blue blazed trails another 4 miles.  Along the way, we crossed fast moving creeks (sometimes with the aid of well-built wooden and metal bridges) and headed up and down even more stairs before finally arriving at the observation platform for the 400+’ drop of the lower Whitewater Falls in SC.  Great hike… Great folks... Great Views... Great day… Great day indeed!

     - A Happy Hiker

Allan, taking in the views of the Lower Whitewater Falls