Brian Gilley

Brian Gilley

Paradise Falls

08/11/23

Paradise Falls is a standout spot in Tuckasegee. The trail is short, rooty, and moderately challenging as it weaves through a dense forest, guiding hikers alongside a beautiful river. As you make your way down the trail, you'll hear the sounds of the cascading waterfall, which never fails to impress. Adjacent rock formations are not only visually intriguing but also offer a glimpse into the deep geological history of Paradise Falls. The trail's terrain varies, so watch your step, especially in damp conditions. It can be slippery in spots. For those who love taking pics, the diverse landscape offers countless shot opportunities. An ultralight day pack with some water and perhaps a few, light snacks are perfect for this short trek. I'd not recommend cliff jumping here, as it can be dangerous. Enjoy this beautiful hiking spot and the falls!

5.0

Brian Gilley

Ribbon Falls via North Kaibab Trailhead

07/24/23

Last summer, I did the Ribbon Falls hike in the heart of the Grand Canyon National Park. It is such a great trail. The trail starts at the North Kaibab Trailhead on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The hike to Ribbon Falls is about 8.4 miles from the trailhead or a shorter 5.2 miles if you're coming from Phantom Ranch. The hike is a bit of a challenge, with an elevation change of about 4,521 feet downhill from the North Rim. But don't let that deter you. The trail offers stunning views of the canyon and the creek, making every step worth it. Along the way, you'll find water sources at Supai Tunnel, Roaring Springs, Manzanita Rest Area, and Cottonwood Campground, which offered perfect spots for a quick refill and filtering of water. About 20 minutes after leaving the main trail, you'll see a sign indicating the path to Ribbon Falls. If you're approaching from the North Rim, you'll cross a bridge over the Bright Angel Creek. If you're coming from Phantom Ranch, there's a spur trail that crosses the creek without a bridge, but I wouldn't recommend it after a rainstorm since it can be slippery. When you finally reach Ribbon Falls, you'll be greeted by a secluded waterfall oasis. The falls are a sight to behold, with water cascading down a 140 ft high travertine spire. There are two small pools, one at the base and another about 50 ft above the travertine. If you're brave enough, you can soak your feet in the pools. But be warned, it was pretty chilly when I was there!

5.0

Brian Gilley

Little Lost Cove Creek Waterfalls

07/17/23

If you're a fan of waterfalls, a little hiking, and a bit of adventure, this short trek is definitely worth the time to visit if you're in or near the Linville, NC area. The falls are nestled in a lush forest (in summer anyway), and the hike to get there is as rewarding as the waterfalls. The trail is a little steep in a few areas, so for beginner hikers it may be a bit more of a challenge. It's a fairly short hike, and the views at the end is worth every step. The journey starts at the trailhead, which is conveniently located near a parking area. You'll follow the trail through the forest, with the sound of the creek to help guide you. The trail is well-marked, so you won't have to worry about getting lost. Along the way, you'll pass by some of the beautiful vegetation local to the Linville area. As you hike, you'll come across two waterfalls. The upper waterfall is a nice spot to take a breather and snap some photos. But the real showstopper is the lower waterfall. It's a long, smooth slide over a steep rock face, and it's truly a sight to behold. To reach the lower waterfall, continue down the primitive trail. It leads you down the bank below the waterfall. Cross the creek and climb the boulders for the best view. The waterfall is over 60' high and flows sideways down the massive rock. There are also pink and blue trail markers that indicate where to turn right off the trail down a steep decline to reach the bottom of the falls. There's currently a rope to help you down and up. Be careful if it is wet soil or it has recently rained. There is also some great rainbow and striped trout fishing downstream from the waterfalls. Go further down to find slower water flow away from the falls. Fishing license required and be sure to check the current regulations for trout fishing in the area. Here are some directions that may help guide you there: From the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile post 311.1, turn onto SR1518 (Old Jonas Ridge Rd). Follow this road, which starts as gravel but turns to pavement. After 1.7 miles, continue straight past Long Ridge Baptist church onto the gravel FR464. Drive 4 miles and turn onto FR464A. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, you can drive 0.8 miles to a campsite, otherwise, park here and walk. From the campsite, follow the old road (FR464A) for about half a mile. Listen for the sound of the creek and look for a mossy, stony area where the trail widens. A short distance after this, a side trail leads steeply down to the upper falls.

5.0