Toms Creek Falls/Hike: This is an easy hike and a great choice for families and children, with a reward at the end that everyone will look forward to. Youll see a lush cove hardwood forest, huge boulders, and an old mining shaft. The parking area is just before the bridge on Huskins Branch Road, about 8 miles from the center of Marion, NC. The 1.5 mile (out and back) trail follows an old road bed most of the way, and it is generally very easy, except at a couple of creek crossings and steep (but very short) hills right at the end. Youll end up with a fantastic view of the approximately 60-foot high falls. You can descend the bank to the base from here, where there is a nice flat area, a gravel and sand bar, and pools great for wading. There is also an old mica mine that is worth seeing. To see the old mine, cross the creek below the falls. Follow the trail that leads downstream on the other side of the creek for a few feet, then turns into a large gully cut into the mountainside. Follow this gully uphill for a few more feet to the entrance of the old mine tunnel leading downhill and into the mountainside. The walls of the gully tower 50 above you on both sides. A vertical shaft leading into the tunnel leaves an unnatural bridge of sorts hanging in midair above you. Water drips from above, and the tunnel is filled with water.
Posted on: Fri, 07 Nov 2014 00:31:24 +0000