Difficult Cumberland Plateau Hike: Lost Creek Cave Falls to Virgin Falls

The Tennessee State Natural Area’s website states that the natural area “is a diverse area situated on the western flank of the Cumberland Plateau. Its scenic highlight is the beautiful Lost Creek Falls and Cave in White County. Lost Creek Falls is geologically similar to its nearby cousin, Virgin Falls, in that the creek emerges from large spring, or collapsed cave on top, drops over the 40’ falls, and disappears underground again.” Lost Creek Falls and Cave is a short loop at the trailhead. Then we will travel 0.5 miles by car to the Rylander Cascades trailhead for the hike to Virgin Falls. Along the trail, view the namesake Rylander Cascades. On the return is the optional 0.7 mi spur trail to Dry Creek Falls. The hike continues to Virgin Falls for lunch. After lunch, hike a loop to Sheep Cave, and a campsite on Caney Fork before returning on Rylander Cascades Trail and the optional spur to Dry Creek Falls.
* Total hike distance is 13 miles with 2700’ of elevation gain; rated Difficult.
* For more information and to register for this event, go to the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club website HERE.
* Our Difficult hikes are: 10-14+ miles and/or elevation change of 1800-2500' or more, mostly on trail, some off-trail possible. Hikers should be regularly hiking 8+ miles with continuous elevation gains of 500+ feet per mile for a sustained 2 to 5 miles (or more), at a 2.0-3.0 mph pace.