General Tips for Hiking in the Smokies

The Smoky Mountains are a great place to hike during the more seasonal months. The national park is packed with beautiful nature, from hills to trees to animal life and scenic views. However, visitors must be aware of the fact that with all natural trails, there can be a certain amount of soil erosion. Be sure and check conditions of local trails with the Smoky Mountain National Park before you set out on your hike.

Set Up A Timeline

Know when sunset is and plan your hike accordingly. You may get caught up in the excitement of the wonderful outdoors, but the sun will set eventually! You don’t want to be caught out in the mountains unprepared when night falls. Make sure you inform others where you are going and when to expect you back.

Always Hike With a Friend

Always hike with a friend or a party, as it is dangerous to be hiking out alone. You always want someone there that can watch your back or call for medical assistance in the event that anything should happen.

Bring Binoculars to Spot Wildlife

One of the best things about hiking in the Smoky Mountains is when you are able to spot different wildlife that make this area their home. But bring your binoculars, because it’s going to be tough to spot them up close. You may also be able to see beaver, squirrels, deer, woodchucks, birds, and more. The Smokies are home to many animals, amphibians, fireflies, mammals, and more.

Don’t Forget Your Bear Spray.

You can legally carry bear spray on your person to protect you from attacking or aggressive bears or other wildlife. However, the spray must be labeled Bear Pepper Spray, commercially manufactured, and registered with the EPA as well as have 1-2 percent of capsaicin and capsaicinoids.

Check Online for Trail Closures.

Sometimes the park may be closed in some areas or not open to the public due to acts of nature such as fire, flood or weather conditions. Be sure to check the online site for the Smoky Mountains National Parks to be sure that the area you’re planning on going to is free and clear. You wouldn’t want to go up there only to have to turn around and come back.

Always Bring Food and Water

Water is a must if you’re going to go hiking. Be sure that you bring more than enough water for the time you will be spending in the Smoky Mountains. Always bring at least two bottles of water per person for short hikes and increase the amount if you are planning a longer hike. Bring along some food in case you get hungry or lost. It is better to always be prepared, even if you don’t need it.

Pack an Emergency First Aid Kit

These types of kits are invaluable in case of an accidental bite, cut, scrape or fall. Most first aid kits don’t add much weight to your backpack. You can pick up an inexpensive first aid kit at your local drugstore or at a store like Wal-Mart or Target.

Choose a Well-Traveled Trail

It is always wise to choose a trail that is well traveled and maintained instead of little obscure trails that might result in getting you lost or injured. Do your homework and check out the most highly recommended trails on the Smoky Mountain National Park reference guide. Here are just a few of some of the most popular hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains:

– Little River Trail

This trail is 4.9 miles and in the Elkmont area. You’ll see tons of beautiful wildflowers such as Canadian violets and pretty streams!

– Middle Prong Trail

This 8.3 round trip trail in the Tremont area is challenging but a good choice for people who are looking forward to beautiful waterfalls and tons of beauty. You can also see several historical artifacts along the way as well.

– Laurel Falls

This Elkmont trail is 2.3 miles round trip and has great scenic views, including waterfalls. Great for families!

– Toms Branch Falls

An easy 0.6-mile hike located in Cherokee/Deep Creek that includes waterfalls.

– Porters Creek Trail

A not too challenging 4-mile hike rewards travelers with wildflowers, old homesteads, and more.

– Gregory Ridge Trail

This 11-mile trail is hugely challenging– hikers beware!

These are just a few of the most popular trails in the Smokies. Do your homework and choose the trail that sounds the best to you! Of course you’re visiting the Smokies, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley offers a cozy, relaxing atmosphere that is very welcoming after a long day on the trails!   Creekside Lodge is a family-owned and operated and provides the perfect venue for nestling in and enjoying a time of peaceful relaxation and rejuvenation.  Summertime is a busy time at Creekside, so call 800-621-1260 today to reserve your spot!   Grab your hiking shoes and get ready to make some great summer memories!

To get the best out of a white water rafting excursion, you need to ensure that you have packed all the essential items. Here are the main items that you should bring on a white water rafting trip:

1. Quality River Shoes

Apart from sitting in the water rafts, you will spend the rest of your time walking along the riverbank. As you already know, the terrain at the riverbank is not that friendly. Regular sneakers or flip-flops will not provide the level of traction and safety necessary. It is recommended that you use high-quality river shoes so you can safely navigate this unpredictable terrain. Flip-flops can be appropriate while in the raft, but if you decide to take a walk beside the river, then you should brace yourself for tough times ahead. Regardless of what type of shoe you choose, make sure to check the soles to ensure they’re not slippery.

2. An Extra bag for Wet Clothes

White water rafting is definitely not a dry sport. Your clothes will be completely wet. Make sure to bring a separate bag for storing your wet clothes. Mixing wet clothes with your dry ones will make all the clothes damp. A light plastic bag such as trash bags will do the job perfectly. The small size of plastic bags makes them easily portable. Given that they are super light, you won’t be burdened by their weight.

3. Sunscreen

Regardless if its sunny or you’re faced with clouds, your skin needs to be protected. Both of these scenarios can be damaging to your skin. Be sure to take plenty of sunscreen or sunblock and re-apply it frequently. While it is important to lather up at the beginning of the trip before getting into the raft, it is equally important to re-apply liberal amounts at least every 2 hours.

4. Some dry clothes

Getting wet can be fun, but you can’t stay wet throughout the day. During the trip, you may be required to go to the restaurant, do some shopping or visit other attractions within the area. Pack some dry, comfortable clothes that you can wear for the rest of the day.

5. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks

If it is a privately organized trip, then remember to carry some snacks packed in plastic bags so they won’t get wet. Bring PLENYTY of water as well. White water rafting involves vigorous paddling, and this can exhaust all your energy and dehydrate you if you don’t keep drinking water throughout the day.

6. Emergency Immune Boosters

You are going to a new environment where you will interact with new people. The drastic changes can weaken your immune system and put you at risk of being attacked by different types of viruses or illnesses that are going around. The changes in temperatures can be hard on your system. The vegetation and insects in the area can trigger allergic reactions. Immune boosters will raise your immune system.

7. Extra Pair of Dry Shoes

After you’ve spent most of the day having fun in the water, it is so nice to slip into dry clothes and a fresh pair of dry shoes. Don’t spoil your after-rafting comfort by changing into dry clothes but then having to continue to wear wet shoes because you forgot an extra dry pair.

8. Waterproof Camera

Some of the best moments during a white water rafting trip are those moments fighting the rapids head on! Capturing these moments on film can make the best treasures! This can be made possible by having a high-quality camera. Be sure to pack a water-resistant camera.

9. A Mat or an Old Blanket

A small blanket or a mat will come in handy on various occasions. You can sit on it while relaxing outside the camp. When taking off your wet clothes, you can put them on the mat rather than on the ground. Make sure you place it in a waterproof bag to keep it nice and dry on the river.

Make your white water rafting trip a memorable experience! Pre-plan the right items to bring and then relax and prepare to get the best out of your adventure. Follow the simple list above and set yourself up for a wonderful, exciting water excursion!

If you are planning your white water rafting experience in the Smoky Mountains, make plans to stay at Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley. Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Asheville, NC, Creekside Lodge provides a perfect place to relax and recover after a fun day on the water! Call 800-621-1260 today to make your reservation. Then grab your list of necessary items to pack, get them packed and get ready to enjoy some summer fun!

Develop a Plan 

According to the United States Coast Guard, more than 250,000 rivers are present throughout the United States. This provides a vast number of options for anyone looking for some on-the-water adventure! And canoeing can be done close to home or in exotic locations.

A critical first step in choosing which river is ideal for your trip is to plan. Determine the surroundings in which you are most comfortable and then research those rivers that meet such criteria. Once a river has been decided upon, research the area in which you will be and familiarize yourself with it. For example, if you opt for a river that is far from town and mingled with dense forest, plan for such an environment.

Necessary Equipment 

After the planning comes the packing. Canoe trips require more than a sack lunch and map of the river to be navigated. The list that follows encompasses a number of items strongly recommended to make your adventure a safe and comfortable one:

-Waterproof first aid kit that can be purchased already-assembled from a variety of retailers. Included within this kit should be, at a minimum, bandages, burn ointment, anti-bacterial cream, medication for insect bites and pain relievers.

-Sunscreen

-Life Jackets & Floatation Devices

-Plenty of Water – Plan to bring a water bottle for each member of the canoe party and subsequent jugs of fresh water

-Warm nylon jacket for each person

-Duct tape that can be used for repairs of the canoe or related equipment

-Dry plastic bags for storing additional clothing and gear

-Extra paddle

-Map and compass

-Food secured in waterproof bags. Make sure any food you bring is tightly secured in waterproof bags. This will go a long way for preventing a soggy lunch!

With regard to Life Jackets, make sure each person is actually wearing their life vest or floatation device. It is not sufficient to just have the PFD in the canoe, it needs to be worn at all times! Many rivers are deceiving in appearance: they look shallow but in fact have rapid currents. Properly fitting PFDs are also important so as to remain secure against the body and promote easy movement.

Ideas for Keeping Kids Engaged 

For adults, paddling a canoe while enjoying the picturesque surrounding can be a whole lot of fun, but for the kids, it can be a bit boring. However, there are a number of ways that can keep up the children’s interest. You can consider paddling near the shore to provide everyone an opportunity to watch for animals and birds and look for unique beach rock. Or if you have two canoes, you can have contests such as racing or spotting certain wildlife, plants, or other nature landmarks.

Choose Your Level

Aside from being a form of transportation, canoe racing is a remarkably fun activity! Racing using outrigger canoe is a sport that involves team paddling. This competitive sport is now appreciated worldwide. There is also what you call slalom canoe. Like a kayak, it is a closed watercraft employed for normal canoe trip. The main reason why slalom canoeing is held is to improve one’s skill of maneuvering a canoe at fastest speed possible all the way through a series of gates placed by the river rapids. You might not be a slalom canoe-racer, but you can certainly have some fun with your canoe in fast moving water!

As you can see, canoeing provides fun for all levels! It can be a fast-paced, competitive sport or a leisurely activity for those who just want to relax, sit back and enjoy being outside in nature. Regardless of which level you may choose, just remember to plan early, always be safe and bring your essentials!

Don’t Forget Lodging 

Make your canoe trip extra special by planning a canoe trip in the beautiful Smoky Mountains! The cold, clear mountain streams rushing into mountain rivers make a wonderful and exciting venue for summer canoeing! After a long day of fun on the water, you’ll be ready for a place to relax, unwind and get a good night’s sleep. Creekside Lodge in Maggie Valley is just the place for you! Creekside Lodge is family owned and operated and is a wonderful place to relax and recover after a long day in the sun! There’s only one problem…Creekside Lodge books up fast, especially in the summer months, so you need to make your reservation quickly! Take a moment today and call  800-621-1260 to reserve your spot! Then get set to enjoy some canoeing fun!

Before you embark on any adventure in the great outdoors of the Smoky Mountains, please make sure you are well equipped with the essentials.  First of all, it is important that you wear comfortable, non-slip footwear that will be safe as your trail might include some areas that are a little wet or include a few slippery areas.  Please note that some type of hiking shoes or sneakers is probably the best choice for this activity.  Next, as with any outdoor activity, be sure to wear comfortable clothes, and bring sunscreen and water.

Distance From Maggie Valley and Cherokee 

One can access Soco Falls from the towns of Cherokee and Maggie Valley. It is located approximately 5.5 miles from Maggie Valley and approximately 10 miles from Cherokee. If you are staying at Maggie Valley, proceed 1.5 miles past Blue Ridge parkway. Before reaching the waterfall, you will come across a blue signpost telling you that Soco Falls is only half a mile away. Look for a roadside parking area on your left. It is small area that can easily be missed if you’re not paying close attention.  Please note that the sign also easy to drive past without notice.

From this roadside parking area, one can clearly hear the beautiful sound of the rushing Soco Falls from a distance. Right at the break of the guardrail, the trail starts. It can take an average person approximately 5 minutes or less to walk to the best Soco Falls’ observation deck. At this viewing point, one is in a position to view the taller falls that are approximately 120 foot in height. During the periods when the tree leaves have fallen off, especially during winter months, one can as well clearly see much smaller falls on their left.

For closer views, you can choose to continue down the available steep trail. This steep trail runs right to the waterfall’s base from the deck. One can access the base with the help of ropes. People are advised to use the section with ropes that help with balance. In addition, people are warned that this section is very slippery and they should be very careful.

Soco Falls Hiking Trail

The hiking trail begins where the parking area meets the metal fence and the guardrail. It is a rough trail, but manageable at the same time. The short trail leads to a wooden observation deck. On the right, one can view gorgeous falls of more than 50 feet. From this location, one can see the tallest of the two main falls and also a number of small secondary falls.

Before the deck, another trail leads down to the view of other smaller falls.  People should always be careful and avoid getting too close to the falls’ top because the rocks are slippery and the drop is very long. Most people prefer viewing the falls from the available observation deck. However, on the deck’s left are climbing ropes that are attached to trees. Adventurous people can climb down using the ropes to the bottom for better views and more photo opportunities. This route is very slippery and steep and people should consider being very careful. Please exercise extreme caution here and follow the safety precautions to the tee because a slip of the foot here can very well lead to serious injury or even death!   While it is wonderful to get a closer look at such a gift of nature, it is certainly not worth the risk of sustaining painful or life-threatening consequences.

Soco Falls is one of nature’s gorgeous gifts and is definitely worth the short drive from Maggie Valley to drink in its’ natural beauty!  Wear non-slip footwear and follow the safety guidelines and you will have a wonderful outdoor adventure in the Smoky Mountains!

Please contact our friendly staff at Creekside Lodge to help you choose those daily excursions that will help make your trip to Maggie Valley one of your favorites!  Please call us at (800) 621-1260 and reserve your spot today!  Our friendly staff at Creekside Lodge look forward to making your stay a truly amazing experience!

Here are some of the most popular bike trails in the Maggie Valley area:

1. Brevard Bike Path – The Brevard Bike Path is roughly 5 miles long and is actually constructed over an old railway corridor. Not to worry, though, you won’t be riding on railway tracks! About1 mile of the path was once used by and old rail company called Carr Lumber. The bike trail is now paved with asphalt for 4 out of the 5 miles. There’s only one mile, which was used to extend the path into the beautiful Pisgah National Forest that has a crushed gravel path. The path is a great trail for beginner and expert bikers alike. It has plenty of scenery and is a fairly flat trail.

2. Doodle Rail Trail – The Doodle Rail Trail is another bike trail that everyone seems to love. This trail has plenty of scenic views of the Great Smokey Mountain area and is home to two beautiful rustic wooden bridges. It also happens to be a trail that was built over an existing railroad line. Doodle Rail line (hence the name of the park), was the old passenger rail line that ran the 7 miles that later became the Doodle Rail Trail. Curious about why it was called Doodle Line? Apparently back in 1898 when this line was operational, people in the area determined that since the train couldn’t turn around it looked like a doodlebug when it was travelling backwards between Pickens and Easley.

3. Point Lookout Trail – Point Lookout Trail leads you up a slope to a spectacular view of Great Smokey Mountain Area. This trail is also paved and is 3.62 miles in length. Even though it’s a relatively short trail, it’s a more moderately difficult trail. Most cyclists choose to slowly ride to the top of the trail at Point Lookout, and then glide down the rest of the trail. This trail is regularly used for the return leg for avid cyclists coming from the Kitsuma Bike Trail.

4. Kitsuma Bike Trail – This trail is considered one of the more rugged bike trails near Maggie Valley. The trail is a little further from Maggie Valley, but is definitely a great trail! It’s not an easy trail and is a mountain bikers dream. The trail is full of twists and turns and changes in elevation. For the more avid cyclist, this is an awesome trail and test of endurance! The bike trail boasts beautiful views of Mt. Mitchell and has plenty of views both on the way up and down. It is 9.7 miles long and is a must ride trail in the area if you are a serious biker!

These are just a few of the many bike trails in the Smoky Mountains near Maggie Valley. No matter what level of a cyclist you are, these trails can provide an awesome experience!   Just remember not to go too crazy if you’re just starting out. Cycling can be extremely energizing, yet is strenuous exercise at the same time! It is a great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re living in the Great Smoky Mountain area or just heading in to visit some of North Carolina, these are great places to see. Nature is beautiful and even if you have friends that don’t cycle or prefer to walk, an outdoor excursion to one of these bike trails can be a fun-filled adventure!

When you’re planning your trip to the Maggie Valley area, don’t forget to take care of your lodging plans first!  Creekside Lodge is a wonderful place to be your home base during your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains.  Our friendly staff at Creekside Lodge would love to assist you in booking your reservation and planning great activities during your stay!   Please call us at (800) 621-1260 and secure your spot today!