|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
         
 Reporter |
Summary: The trail starts at an abandoned coalmine area along Richland Creek providing multiple natural swimming pools. The trails are in great shape and well marked with white markers on trees. There could be a potential problem of hiking during current rain as some of the trails are formed of rock and some maneuvering over large rock areas are necessary. Pack a lunch and enjoy a cool “dinner table” nearby the waterfall, mist included. After lunch there are many photo opportunities just be careful climbing on the rocks in and around the falls. If you are feeling really adventurous there is a marked trail to Bryan Overlook which takes you up a rocky trail and some creek crossing but taking your and being careful you shouldn’t have any problem getting to the 1724’ overlook, the view is well worth it! This is a 1.35 mile round trip from the waterfall area and with steep elevation I would rate this part strenuous. Snow Falls can be reached the same day via 8-mile trip. Trailhead: Directions via I-75: Exit 60 Sweetwater. Follow Highway 68 West to Highway 27 and turn left (south) toward dayton. Turn right on Walnut Grove Road (first traffic light). Bear left when road splits, onto Back Valley Road. At 0.7 mile, turn right on the unmarked gravel road across from a small white church. A small "pocket wilderness" sign marks the road and follw this to the end of a large parking area. The trailhead is just ahead past the huge rocks. (Lat:35.52637 Lon:-85.02158) Trail Guides for Laurel Falls: Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Laurel-Snow Bowater Pocket Wilderness Trail Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted 74 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Stephen on 5/2/2008 For those that can't find the falls, you're not looking hard enough. You are going to be required to climb some very rough terrain to find these falls. The first falls, which do not seem to be marked anywhere are just a few hundred feet in on the right just East of the first bridge. At the first bridge, go East directly up the rocks towards the source of the waters. You'll find a 40 ft waterfall with some amazing watershed caves that were improved by some of the mining or logging companies in years past. 
Reviewed by Viewer on 9/23/2007 Marie... Hiked the trail Sept 19th.'07 saw no water falls. the trail was marked but no where did we see where it said '' water falls this way.'' ,,But if you love rocks and I mean BIG rocks this is a must trail to hike.
Reviewed by gb on 7/25/2007 I have spent much time hiking at Pocket Wilderness, but had never hiked to Laurel Falls until a few weekends ago. All in all it was a great hike, except for the fact there was no falls since it's been so dry. The trail is fairly well marked, but it is very easy to miss the bridge on the way back. I recommend going for a swim in the swimming hole on the way back! 
Reviewed by Rob on 6/17/2007 They still don't have a sign posted to direct you to Laurel Falls where the trails split. One mile into the hike the trail splits. Follow "Main Trail" sign to reach Buzzard Point, continue straight to reach Laurel Falls.
Reviewed by Greg on 6/5/2007 This is the best trail that you can get to from Cleveland, Tn. I personally love the Pocket Wilderness area because there is so much that it has to offer. With the Falls, the river/creeks (which are best in early spring), to the large amount of rocks and boulders, which offer alot to the bouldering type, there are plenty of places to explore.
Reviewed by C.W. on 4/25/2007 For anyone who boulders, come here. This place has hundreds upon hundreds of problems from V1 to V16. The hikes are great too. 
Reviewed by Andrew on 4/3/2007 The hike was great! Me and the boys had a blast. Just us boys hiking, oh man it was great. The trail was slippery but i handled it with ease. Me and the boys had a picnic along the way, fantastic! The falls were certainly beautiful, oh it was breathtaking! I recomend this trail to anybody wanting a great time, i would love to go back and do it again! Me and my boyfriend had a super time! I love you Todd !!!
Reviewed by Ashley on 1/20/2007 Thought this hike was great - I would like to do it again in the spring. I'm not much of a winter hiker - I prefer the spring and fall. Great hike to bring your dog with along, excellent swimming holes and huge boulders. Highly recommend but wear the right gear for steep and wet. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Rhea County Hiking, Rhea County Trails, Rhea County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||