Honey Creek Loop, Big South Fork NRA - 5.63 miles

Join Us for one of my favorite hikes in Tennessee. This is a hidden gem, offering a full day of stunning views, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural features.

Distance: 5.63 miles
Difficulty: VERY DIFFICULT: This is considered difficult due to uneven steps, steep climbs, ladders, narrow trail without protection, rocky terrain, boulder-scrambling, and creek crossing (trail is in the creek).
Elevation: ~700ft up and ~700ft down
Type of hike: Loop trail

Meeting times 8:15am at Bandy Creek Campground, 9:30am Honey Creek Trailhead. This is approximately 2 hours from downtown Knoxville. The last several miles are gravel and sometimes rough sections of road. So you may need to allow some extra travel time.

April is the perfect time to explore this trail, as the wildflowers along the way are in full bloom, adding bursts of color to the already picturesque surroundings. As we make our way through the loop, we'll pass by six incredible waterfalls and explore numerous rockhouses. Be prepared to stop often – there's so much to take in!

The trail offers a mix of terrain, including sections where we’ll need to carefully navigate through slanted crevices between massive boulders. Keep your eyes peeled for some fascinating sandstone liesegang rings. I’ll explain these unique geological features as we go.
Proper hiking footwear is a must, as some parts of the trail require us to wade through the creek. The water level usually ranges from 1/2" to 3", so water shoes are highly recommended. A small towel to dry your feet will also help prevent blisters. We’ll be moving at a relaxed pace, taking time to enjoy the experience. Halfway through, we’ll stop at an amazing overlook to rest and have lunch. This hike is best appreciated when taken slowly, so plan for a full day of exploration and adventure!

Please note: There are a few tight spots where you may need to shimmy between boulders, so if you have any concerns with claustrophobia, keep this in mind. With this in mind, we have successfully made it through these sections with all participants

Looking forward to sharing this unforgettable hike with you!

WHAT TO BRING
We always suggest carrying the 14 essentials when going into the woods. You can download a pdf file here that discusses these essentials. Here. (Thanks Lane)
Because it’s the Appalachian Mountains, be mindful of the weather and bring the necessary waterproof outer layers, insulation, water, and snacks to be safe.

NAVIGATION AIDS & LINKS:
[Honey Creek Loop Hiking Trail, Huntsville, Tennessee (hikingproject.com)](https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7011565/honey-creek-loop)

LATECOMERS AND "NO-SHOWS"
It’s important that everyone is on time (or early). We would hate to leave a hiker behind because they’re running late. If your plans change and you can’t come on the hike, please change your RSVP so we’re not waiting for you or looking for you.
*** Failure to change your RSVP, or let us know at least an TWO hour ahead of the hike's start time, qualifies as a 'No-Show' with me, and you may not be able to join future events. ***

DISCLAIMER:
By joining and/or participating in any Great Smoky Hiking and Adventure Group (GSHAG) event or activity you agree to hold the organizers and participants harmless from any loss, damage or liability that may occur during this event or while in transit to and from the event, assume all personal risks and liability related to or resulting from any GSMHAG activities, functions and events and agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's organizers, or members liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. In addition, by participating in any Great Smoky Mountain Hiking and Adventure Group event you assert and agree that you have the appropriate skills, physical conditioning, equipment and supplies to properly participate in the events that you chose to attend and that your membership in this group is on an "at will" basis.