May 28, 2024
Payne's Creek North Loop Trail
near Hartwell, GA
It was a warm and sunny hike on this multi-use trail on Lake Hartwell. We had an easy walk along this well maintained, mostly flat trail with continual shade from high tree cover. There were no blowdowns and the path was mostly free of rocks and roots. Over half of the hike was along the shoreline that provided a pleasant view of the lake at full pool. Surprisingly, only one wildflower, Pipsissewa, was seen in one location today.
TODAY'S HIKERS: Lynn Steele, Kim Johnson, Angela Evans, Bobbie Broussard, Sue Vaughn, Shelia Getman, Matt Henderson & Toby, Ken Kellerman & Cutie Pie, Jenny Bell & Mike Bell.
The route
7.6 mi · 472 ft climbing · 4h 4m out, 3h 28m walking · 2.2 mph moving
Elevation
Hover over the profile to see the elevation and steepness. Your position will be shown on the map.
- Steepness
- Gentle under 5%
- Moderate 5–10%
- Steep 10–15%
- Very steep over 15%
13 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (13)
A view of the Tugaloo River section of Lake Harwell from the trail. Today's Hikers (L-R): Lynn, Mike with Toby, Kim, Angela, Bobbie, Sue, Shelia, Matt, Jenny & Ken with Cutie Pie. Come on Mike. Let's get going. Typical trail conditions today. Several types of fungi provide sporadic color along the trail. Cutie Pie and Toby found just lying down on the trail was the best way to keep cool. A couple more views of Lake Hartwell from the trail. We didn't expect to see any Mayapple and this one example was visually interesting with its mottled leaves. Lynn spotted this Pipsissewa (aka Spotted or Striped Wintergreen). The only type of wildflower seen today. Finally, a break and snack. Just enjoying the lake view from our lunch spot. A large spider enjoying a sunny spot on a Mullein leaf. How much further?