Smith Creek Trail from Anna Ruby Falls

This was an easy to moderately difficult hike beginning at Anna Ruby Falls and ending at Unicoi Lodge. The trail to Anna Ruby Falls was a short 0.4 mile, but steep walk on a paved trail along Smith Creek . There was a good amount of water flowing over the falls making it quite scenic. "These twin waterfalls (150' & 50') are located on Curtis Creek (west side) and York Creek (east side). Curtis Creek and York Creek converge at the base of Anna Ruby Falls to form Smith Creek." The hike back to Unicoi State Park from the falls began with a moderately steep, but rocky 2-mile climb on the west side of Hickory Nut Mountain. There are several portions of this trail running along a narrow ledge so careful footing is necessary. Thereafter, the trail is mostly downhill on an easier and gentle path. In contrast to hiker reports, the trail shows recent maintenance including cutting back of overgrowth. There were numerous varieties of wildflowers today. It is strange this is called the Smith Creek Trail since it really is not very close to Smith Creek. With mild temperatures and mostly cloudy skies this was another "great day for a hike." TODAY'S HIKERS: Gerald Richardson, Heather & Toby, Gita Patel, Matt Henderson, Jenny Bell, Stephanie Kromelis, Allyson Aldrich, Jane Brown, Rex Wade, Charles Hawkins, Beth Hawkins, Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Rich Brown, Ryland, ???, Jaden ???, Bobbie Broussard, Vic Robson & Mike Bell