GOFORTH Creek

GOFORTH 4

GOFORTH 1

Recently I had to travel to the St Louis, Missouri area. The best way to go from Murphy, NC is by HWY 64 West to Chattanooga. I couldn’t have asked for a better day to travel. After a week of nothing but clouds and rain, I welcomed the sunshine. Even though I had a long way to travel, I couldn’t help but stop at a few places along the and enjoy the scenery. There are many places to stop along the river, but one of my favorite is GOFORTH Creek. GOFORTH 10 Even if you have to be somewhere, this stop will not set you back too far on your travel time. Not far from where the 1996 Olympic Whitewater activities took place, this lovely creek feeds into the Oconee River and is a popular stop along the route along the river. Flowing down from the top of the mountain, the creek actually turns into a beautiful little waterfall just before its water joins the river. GOFORTH 5There is plenty of room for a parking approximately eight cars at the base of the falls. GOFORTH 8You can stand on top of any large rocks along the edge of the creek and take in some awesome views of the falls. So, if you are ever traveling on HWY 64 along the Oconee River, be sure to look for the sign that says GOFORTH Creek and stop for a moment to enjoy this beautiful water fall!   You will be glad you did!GOFORTH Sign

Afternoon Fun by the Oconee River

Oconee 4Last weekend my husband and I, along with our dog Charley, decided to take a drive west on HWY 64 to the site on the Oconee River in Tennessee where the 1996 Olympic Whitewater events took place.Oconee 16Oconee 2

Here is an awesome place to go for a nice stroll along the river. The Rhododendron Trail is an easy hike for all ages where you can enjoy the beauty of both the Oconee River and the Cherokee National Forest. There is plenty of parking for a small all day fee. All the trails are super easy to walking or bicycling . Cross the bridge either by car or by foot and at the end you will find several picnic places. Along the path you will cross bridges over small streams and enjoy several look out points along the river.Oconee 7 Oconee 12If you happen to be walking the trail shortly after a recent rain, you may be able to see some small waterfalls from these streams from the side of the hill. There are several species of plant and flower for you to admire during the spring and summer months. Depending on what time of day or week you visit will depend on the river’s water level, which is controlled by the Tennessee Valley Authority. When it is up, you will be able to experience the sight and sounds of the rushing river. Oconee 3On the other days when water levels are lower, you can get a closer glimpse of the river, stand or sit on the rocks and poise for a picture or just relax and listen to the gentle river flow. After your picnic and walk, enjoy a drive along the scenic HWY 64. There are more places to stop and gaze at the Gorgeous Oconee River! Oconee 6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A Stroll Along the River Walk

Snowy Path

Snowy Path

Leech Place Overlook

Leech Place Overlook

One of my favorite past times to do is go for a walk with my dog Charley at the River Walk in Murphy, NC. The river walk was constructed and is now maintained by volunteers, who dedicate their time and energy so that visitors can enjoy the views along the Valley and Hiawassee Rivers.  Charley and I are forever grateful for their hard work and dedication that comes from a love for this area.

On The Board Walk

On The Board Walk

This River Walk is another reason why I am glad to call the mountains my home.  The walk is approximately three miles from start to finish.  Along the way, there are many areas that you can stop and relax, have a picnic or cast a  fishing line.

Covered Bridge

Covered Bridge

Charley and I recently went for a stroll along the River Walk.  These pictures were taken shortly after a rare and substantial snow fall.  However, most of the snow had already melted during our walk.

River Bank

River Bank

Since autumn has paved the way for more unobstructed views of theriver that might be normally hidden by the leaves in the summertime, I took the opportunity to take some photos to share with you.

Right now both rivers are very shallow which creates many areas for the waters to rush along the rocks.  In the summertime the Tennessee Valley Authority releases more water into the rivers, allowing more water for boating and fishing.

Going Toward The Lookout

Going Toward The Lookout

You will also have more opportunity to spot the otters at play as you enjoy your walk or float down the river.During the spring and summer there are always a variety of flowers and plants along the way to enjoy.  Oh course, in the fall you have the beautiful autumn leaves.Whether you want to take a stroll, go for a run, walk your dog, sit andrelax by the river,  go fishing or have a picnic, you will enjoy spending  time at the River Walk in Murphy, NC.

Where the Two Meet

Where the Two Meet

Train Trestle 2

Train Trestle 2