April 26th, 2008 -  I had been to the Margarette Falls area only a few weeks ago (see here), but returned today with the entire family for a wonderful Tennessee Eastman Hiking Club wildflower hike.  We were led by Joe DeLoach, and also joined by four very nice ladies.

Joe led us up the graveled road to get to the trail junction, and pointed out numerous wildflowers and different plant species along the way.  We saw masses of wild Geranium and numerous wild Iris.  Once on the trail to the falls, we saw more of the above, along with different varieties of Trillium and Rue Anemone... only to name a few.  I took a lot of photos of the flowers and plants, but was disappointed at the quality when I got home.  Some of the better ones can be seen below.                        

"Cathedral Rock"

Joe guided us to the Falls where we rested and took a few photos.  The 60' Margarette Falls was very pretty, and everyone seemed to enjoy the scenery.  Campbell and Taylor did a lot of exploring and found salamanders and a few Red Efts.  We also saw a lot of snails and millipedes on the trail.       

Campbell led the hike back down the mountain, and we soon all arrived back at our vehicles dry and safe.  The weather held off for us all morning, and this hike turned out great.  Thanks again to Joe DeLoach for leading and teaching everyone about the wildflowers, plants, and wildlife.       

Total Miles Hiked:  2.4 

Getting There:  

Driving (this is probably not the fastest way) - From Johnson City, take I-26 to the Erwin/Jonesborough exit (#37). At the end of the ramp turn right and take State Rt. 81/107 for 6.5 miles.  Stay on Rt. 107 by turning left and continue for 14.8 miles. Turn left onto 351 South and drive 0.7 miles where you will take a left on Middle Creek Road. Drive 3.5 miles on Middle Creek Road until you reach a stop sign where you will take a right onto Greystone Road.  Follow Greystone for 2.0 miles, and take a left onto Shelton Mission Road where you will follow it for another 2.0 miles.  You will see a sign for the trails, and then the parking area will be immediately on your left.  

Trails (there were no signs at trail junctions and very few blazes, so please read carefully) - From the parking area you will see a road (blocked off) and the only sign designating the trails.  It's private property on either side of this road, but it's fine to take it.  Walk up this road for approximately .5 mile  until it dead ends.  This is the confusing area... You will see two trails here... take the one on your right (at the two large boulders).  After approximately 50 yards this trail will split again... take the one to the left.  This is the trail to Margarette Falls, which will be reached in another .7 mile.