November 18, 2025
Winding Stairs Trail from Cherry Hill
near Mountain City, SC
We had another sunny day with a cool, 44 °F, start and near 70 °F finish. The trail was dry, but with a heavy covering of dry leaves making the path a bit tricky with some hidden rocks and roots throughout the hike. The real challenge of this hike were the numerous blowdowns from Helene that have yet to be cleared. All of the blowdowns were passable, but at two of the switchbacks it took quite a bit of off-trail bushwhacking to pass by. Fortunately we found easier paths to bypass these blowdowns on our return path. Another challenge today was access to Miuka, Little Miuka and Secret Falls, all requiring a scramble down an embankment made more dangerous by the heavy leaf cover. With all that effort, it was unfortunate that the water flow was quite small in comparison to our March 30, 2023 hike. Nevertheless, was still pleasant to be on the trail on such a nice day.
Today's hikers: Lynn Hotle, Renee Corbett, Gregg Nuessly, Jenny Bell & Mike Bell.
The route
5.1 mi · 942 ft climbing · 4h 39m out, 3h 18m walking · 1.6 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%
20 photos are shown on the map where they were taken — click one to see it full size.
Photos (20)
Unfortunately these large blowdowns were the features of the day. Today's hikers (L-R): Lynn, Renee, Gregg, Jenny & Mike Getting ready at the trailhead at Cherry Hill. Blowdowns from the start on the approach trail. Renée spotted this Witch-hazel bush early in the hike, the only wildflower of significance seen today. A peek through the trees of Lake Cheohee in the valley to the east. Yep, more blowdowns. So we were trying to figure out the meaning of the senseless graffiti. All I could find was, "a belief in the equality of all people." Not so impressive today, Miuka Falls from a large rock outcrop above it. We did no risk the very steep, leaf covered scramble down to the base of the falls to get a better view. As Gregg Nuessly suggested, we need to look up occasionally to enjoy the beauty around us. Actually an easy trail if not for, wait for it . . . . blowdowns. Down (L) and up (R) West Fork of Crane Creek at Little Miuka Falls. Where's the water? Gregg and Mike standing in the middle of Little Miuka Falls. But there was a beautiful view of Lake Cheohee from Little Miuka Falls. While a very small tree, this Northern Red Oak had gigantic red leaves. A big scramble required to get not all that close to Secret Falls. Yep, Mike & Gregg again at Secret Falls. Ladies and a gentleman lunching on a log. A massive gall in a tree on the way back. Looks like some critters have made a nice home there too. A not so steep, but long hill on the way home.