All summer, I have wanted to head west to hike in the mountains of western North Carolina; unfortunately, this has been one of the wettest summers on record - so there have been few chances for weekend trips. Since I was finally blessed with a sunny weekend, I began my day at South Mountain State Park, which is located in the central part of the state (just north of Charlotte.) The park is best-known for the High Shoals Waterfall; however, it also has a number of excellent hiking trails.
When I first entered the park, my plan was to make a 7.5 mile (12 km) loop hike using the High Shoal Falls Trail, Upper Falls Trail, Shinny Trail, and finishing along the Headquarter Trail. Surprisingly, the trail immediately proved a challenge! Although it passed along the picturesque Jacob Branch Creek, the trail quickly climbs the mountain through a series of steep stairs. Fortunately, there were several small waterfalls along the climb that made the trip more enjoyable. Eventually, the trail arrives at the High Shoals Fall, which was very impressive - though still not the end of the climb.
After the trail climbs to the top of the cliff (above the High Shoals Fall), the Upper Falls Trail begins, and continues to climb through a thick pine forest. Fortunately, this portion of the trail doubles as a horse trail, so it is very wide (and easy to follow.) Sadly, there was little of interest along this segment (other than a single spot where the trees cleared to along a few of the surrounding mountains.) After a couple miles, my loop turned with the Shinny Trail, and continued along a much narrower path back down the mountain side.
When I arrived at the bottom of the mountain, I again joined another stream as I worked my way back to the parking lot. Fortunately, the trail designer allowed for as much interaction with this stream as possible! The trail crossed over the stream at least four times - using stepping stones, a log bridge, and a couple small traditional bridges. Eventually, the trail joins the Headquarter Trail and continues to the parking lot.
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