Bald River Falls / Bald River Gorge Trail - 10 miles - Moderate

Bald River Falls / Bald River Gorge Trail - 10 miles - Moderate
Bald River Falls, Tellico Plains, TN
Trailhead Coords: 35.3247,-84.1775

Looking for a cool hike on a hot summer day? Bald River Falls is a 90-foot waterfall near Tellico Plains, TN (Cherokee National Forest). Bald River Gorge Trail is a 10-mile out-and-back hike that follows Bald River. Covered by a dense forest canopy, and Rhododendron tunnels, the nearby river acts as natural air conditioning.

There's a very cool pool/swimming hole at the top of Bald River Falls, and another at the base of Baby Falls (around the bend on the Tellico River). I suggest bringing a swimsuit. There are also picnic tables at Baby Falls. Consider bringing snacks/picnic food to eat and/or share for after the hike.

Access to the falls has been closed for 1.5 years during Bald River Falls Bridge reconstruction, but it should re-open in early June. I don't know if they've improved the parking situation during the bridge project, so I'm limiting attendance for now to 12 (car-pool 3 cars from Cherohala Skyway). Details to follow.

Friday night camping
A number of us have discussed camping Friday, July 25th at Indian Boundary Overflow Campground. IIRC, it's first-come-first-served and is $10/night/spot. I'll edit this post with details once I have them.

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