Tom Branch Falls
The Deep Creek loop, just inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Bryson City, North Carolina, is a great hike that takes you past three small waterfalls. Each fall is not remarkable in terms of height, but is pretty in its own way.
hellbender salamander
These hellbender salamanders, known locally as “snot otters,” are found throughout western North Carolina. This one is approximately 15 inches in length, but they can grow to about 30 inches. They have a frilly skin that ruffles as they move through the water, earning them the additional nickname “lasagna lizards.”
Indian Creek Falls
undercut
Love these undercut banks along the trail! There’s a lot going on here, a veritable forest in microcosm. Looks like the perfect home for woods fairies!
Juney Whank Falls–you gotta love the name!
fill ‘er up!
The rain held off (barely) while we hiked, but started up when we sat down for a picnic lunch afterward. Fortunately Marcus brought a tent with him. Roughing it in the Smoky Mountains!
All waterfalls are beautiful, but I think the small ones are so much prettier with their character and surroundings! The water seems “whiter” as well. Perhaps less water provides less pronouncement of the rust or tannin colors? Love following your trips!
I learned yesterday that the hellbender salamander lives only in the cleanest creeks and rivers. It requires lots of oxygen in the water. When the salamanders disappear, the creek is in trouble. Thanks for following us!
Love creeks and waterfalls! Really pretty and peaceful.
Loved this hike! We need woods like this where we live!
Looks like a Party, Beer and Chips !!!
Life is always a party with us, Curt! And beer is always a post-hike reward! Good to hear from you.
Love the Daycation Brew! And the “food” label on the bag. (Oh and the scenery is gorgeous, too!)
I created that “food” label years ago when we had dogs. Marcus had trouble remembering which travel bag to put the food in so the dogs couldn’t get into it. (Hint: the one with the zipper!) After the dogs ate several packs of cookies out of an open bag, I labeled the zippered one to avoid any further confusion. I thought about cutting the tag off now that it doesn’t matter, but it still makes me smile!