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Get fit in Georgia—without the gym

For many, the thought of exercising in a gym is remarkably dull. The scenery is the same, the people are the same, and the workouts are the same. However, there are dozens of ways for you to shake up your routine, all without setting foot in a gym. Check out these unique ways to stay fit that are right here in Georgia.

Atlanta Rocks

Beginner or world class athlete, Stone Summit Climbing and Fitness Center has a climb for you. With locations in Atlanta, Kennesaw, and Midtown, and walls towering from 25 to 60 feet, this activity is sure to rock your socks off—pun intended! In addition to rock climbing, Stone Summit offers top roping, leading, auto belays, and bouldering for all ages and climbing levels. Locations include membership, day passes, and class options, making it the perfect activity for locals or tourists. Pricing starts at $15.

Virtual Yoga by the Water

For those desiring a more calming experience, the Georgia Aquarium is making waves with its event “Virtual Yoga by the Water.” Led by certified yoga instructors from local Atlanta studios, participants channel their inner harmony while taking in unbelievable views of whale sharks, manta rays, and other captivating sea creatures. Whether you’re a certified yogi or a novice, this class is perfect for all experience levels. Complimentary classes are available at georgiaaquarium.org. All classes are filmed in front of the breathtaking Ocean Voyager exhibit and can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home.

Bikes on the Beltline

Looking for a way to explore Atlanta all while getting fit? Look no more! If you’ve always wanted to explore the Beltline, or if you’re simply looking for a way to exercise that doesn’t require running on a treadmill, biking along the Beltline is the classic way to go. If you have a bike already, great! If you don’t, there are numerous bike rental shops along the Beltline, with some charging as little as $5 per hour. Biking along the Beltline is a neat way to view notorious Atlanta street art and astounding urban scenery—all while exercising! So, grab a friend or go solo. Either way, you’re guaranteed to stumble upon some marvelous things.

Go Ziplining

Get a bird’s eye view of Georgia—literally—by zipping through the treetop canopies. Ziplining is a phenomenal way to explore some of Georgia’s most breathtaking sites from a different perspective. It might seem easy, but ziplining is a more intense workout than you think. Between taking in the fresh air and experiencing an adrenaline rush, ziplining is chock-full of health benefits. Some of the greatest places to zipline include Banning Mills, Blue Ridge, and Helen. Prices typically range from $30-$100, so it won’t break the bank.

Explore the Coastal Waters

Paddleboarding or biking along the beautiful, coastal waterways is a great way to explore Tybee and Jekyll Islands and sure to get your heartrate up. The views are sensational and a great way to exercise while enjoying nature. East Coast Paddleboarding offers lessons, tours, and rentals. So whether you are a local or visiting the area, take a ride on the adventurous side and soak up these sports. Lessons start at $40 and include an hour rental.

So, whether you’re looking to start your fitness journey, or you’re simply searching for a plan to shake up your routine, Georgia is full of creative ways to remain active.

Quarantine cooking: recipes to make you feel like you’re traveling the world

Due to social distancing requirements, most people are staying home and cooking their meals, rather than going out to eat. And, because of COVID-19, people were forced to cancel their travel plans. If you’re tired of cooking the same recipes or need a vacation, we have the perfect solution for you—try these dishes that will transform your typical weeknight dinner and have you feeling like you’re traveling the world, even when you can’t.

Creamy chipotle chicken breast

This creamy chipotle chicken breast recipe will make it seem as if you’ve hopped on a plane and traveled to Mexico. Like many Mexican dishes, it’s rich in flavor and looks incredible. Even better? It’s simple to make. You need only a few ingredients, and it takes fewer than 30 minutes to prepare. This recipe is from Mexico in my Kitchen—a food blog dedicated to authentic, Mexican cooking, created by Mely Martinez. The website has dozens of recipes to choose from, too—even vegetarian options.

Croque monsieur

If you’re looking for a hearty sandwich that instantly transports you to a French bistro, what better than a croque monsieur? It’s essentially a grilled cheese, but with a French twist—it’s made with ham, Dijon, bechamel, and gruyere cheese. You can use any cheese, but gruyere is preferred. This sandwich makes for hassle-free cooking that will satisfy your cravings. You can find this and dozens of other French recipes on Mon Petit Four®, a site that is devoted to French fare. 

Japanese-style pasta 

Although it sounds like a new fusion creation, Japanese-style pasta is prominent in Japanese cuisine. Japanese-style pasta, also known as Wafu pasta, is a pasta dish that has Japanese seasonings and ingredients—usually soy sauce, miso, and nori seaweed. This Japanese pasta is perfect for a quick, easy dinner—it takes only 15 minutes to cook. The ingredients are simple, too—all you need is pasta, shrimp, broccolini, soy sauce, and garlic chili oil. This recipe is from Just One Cookbook—a website that is all about Japanese culture and cuisine, created by Nami Hirasawa Chen, a home chef aiming to make Japanese cooking easy and accessible to everyone.

One-pan Bobotie casserole

Bobotie is a South African casserole that is similar to Greek Moussaka and is typically served with yellow rice. It’s very simple to make and is ideal for those weeknights when you don’t necessarily feel like cooking. The dish is filled with flavor from spices and everything is prepared in one pan. The ingredients can be found in your local grocery store, too. You can find this recipe on All that’s Jas—a food blog that features comfort food from around the world.

We hope these recipes not only help you switch up your mundane dinners but also provide a way for you and your family to escape to different parts of the world—all from the comfort of your kitchen.

Streaming wars: Which service suits you best?

Today we have 75’’ smart-4K UHD TVs strategically mounted every five feet throughout our homes. We can be entertained 24-hours a day by tens of thousands of shows on just as many channels, and we can watch them just about anywhere–inside, outside, poolside, in the passenger side, or projected on the side of our homes.

Now that Netflix has created—and now dominates—the new world of television, other TV providers can’t continue to sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest episode of Stranger Things. They’re launching their own platforms with their own original content in hopes of recovering their fair share of the bing-watching, couch potato market.

So many choices, so much confusion

In terms of new streaming services, Apple TV+ launched on November 1, Disney+ arrived on November 12, NBC Universal’s Peacock is scheduled to debut in April 2020, and HBO Max will hit the small screen in May 2020. But don’t be blinded by those shiny new pennies. You still have the seasoned veterans who have a decade or so of streaming under their belts like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and CBS All Access.

With the exploding popularity of streaming services, viewers have access to more shows and movies than ever before. You will, however, have to pledge your allegiance to one lucky TV provider. That decision, which we suspect will be strongly influenced by finances and FOMO, won’t be easy.

Not to add fuel to the fire, but if you’re a hard-core fan of a specific series, you might also have to track it down. Several shows could potentially move from one platform to another. For example, “Friends” is saying goodbye to Netflix and hello to HBO Max, and The Office will strut on over to the Peacock in 2021.

Tell it to me straight

The rush of new streaming services has many of us wandering around in a state of confusion. What’s more, they’re all trying to win viewership, and we’re stuck in the middle. Don’t worry–we’ve got your back. Here’s a break down of the who, what, when, and how much of it all:

Netflix offers a wide variety of commercial-free, award-winning TV shows, movies, anime, and documentaries that you can watch whenever, wherever you want. They offer three different plans based on the number of devices that can stream the service at the same time. It’s available on smart TVs, Playstation, Xbox, Chromecast, Apple TV, Blu-ray players, and more. You can even download your favorite shows and watch them on the go.

The monthly cost is $12.99, but take advantage of the 30-day free trial first.

With Hulu, you can watch thousands of shows—full seasons of your favorite series, hit movies, current episodes, and premium Hulu Originals–with plans that start at $5.99/month (after a free 7-day trial, of course). If you’re looking for more, you could also bundle Hulu, Disney+ and ESPN+ for $12.99 per month.

Hulu’s newest feature is live television– sports, news, and entertainment. With access to their entire streaming library, the package is $44.99 per month.

You can stream Hulu online and on iOS, Android, Roku, Fire TV & Fire Stick, Apple TV, Chromecast, Xbox, Samsung, LG, and Nintendo Switch.

Amazon Prime Video is included in the Amazon Prime membership ($119 per year). It allows viewers to stream thousands of movies and TV shows, including exclusive Amazon Originals. Without a Prime membership, Prime Video can be accessed with a standalone membership at a monthly rate of $8.99.

Viewers have the option to rent or buy select movies and TV episodes. They can also bundle 100+ premium channels like HBO, SHOWTIME, MLB.TV and STARZ for an additional cost of 4.99-14.99 per month.

Some Prime Video subscriptions include the Watch Live feature, which allows viewers to live-stream programming. Watch on the Prime Video app, on a compatible Fire TV, smart TV, streaming media player, game console, mobile phone, or tablet.

CBS All Access offers streaming of more than 10,000 episodes of your favorite CBS shows, classic hits, and exclusive, critically acclaimed CBS All Access Original Series. Viewers can also watch live sports, shows, and news at home or on the go via their local CBS station, CBSN, CBS Sports HQ, and ET Live. Streaming devices include Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, Chromecast, Android TV, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Samsung Smart TV.

CBS All Access offers a Limited Commercials Plan for $5.99 per month and a Commercial-free plan for $9.99 per month. Opt for the annual plan and you can save over 15%, but take advantage of the free 7-day trial first.

Apple TV+ features Apple’s original ad-free and on-demand series and movies. Viewers will also find hit movies and shows available for rent or purchase, and access to other video subscriptions like Showtime, Starz and HBO. Watch it on your favorite Apple devices, on streaming platforms, smart TVs, and AirPlay‑enabled TVs. You can also access it on the web at tv.apple.com.

Most Apple TV+ series will release three episodes and then one new episode per week, so binge-racers take note. Apple TV+ doesn’t have a library of licensed shows or movies, and won’t release full seasons of your favorite shows all at once. Their current nine programs are soon to be expanded by another five in the coming months.

After a 7-day free trial, the service costs $4.99 per month, and subscribers can divvy up viewing privileges among six family members. Apple is also bundling Apple TV+ with its Apple Music student-discount plan at no extra cost. One cool perk–viewers who purchased an iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, iPod Touch, or Mac as far back as September 10, 2019, qualify for a free 1-year subscription.

Disney+ launched its highly anticipated streaming service on November 12. Now viewers can get the best of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic all in one place—and it’s always ad-free. The entire family can watch new releases, classics, and exclusive originals on the go or at home on up to four different devices at one time.

After a 7-day free trial, you can start streaming for $6.99 per month. Want more? Bundle Disney+ with Hulu and ESPN+ for $12.99 per month.

HBO Max is a new, soon-to-be-released streaming platform. It will bundle HBO with classic shows, documentaries, specials, and blockbuster movies from WarnerMedia’s expansive library, a selection of acquired series and movies, like Friends, for example, plus an exclusive collection of new programming under the Max Originals banner.

The new service is scheduled to launch in May 2020 and will be available on tablets, phones, PC and Mac browsers, game consoles, and streaming media players.

HBO Max will be available for $14.99 per month. Viewers who currently subscribe to HBO NOW through HBONOW.com and are billed through HBO, or subscribe to AT&T TV or U-Verse TV will have access to HBO Max at no additional cost. Subscribers of premium AT&T mobile and broadband services will also gain access to an HBO Max bundle at no extra charge.

Want more information about HBO Max before it launches? Sign up for updates at HBOMax.com.

With so many new streaming services, multiple viewing options, different pricing plans, bundles, and promotions, watching TV can be more stressful than ever. Your best bet is to make your best guess and go!

Surprise your sweetheart: hot spots for Valentine’s Day in Georgia

We all know planning the perfect Valentine’s Day date night can be a struggle—it’s a never-ending cycle of pondering where to eat, what to do, or where to stay. Still deciding on if you want to enjoy a romantic night in the city or partake in a luxurious weekend getaway? We’ve got you covered. Here are some of our favorite restaurants, activities, and destinations right here in Georgia that are terrific for Valentine’s Day.

Restaurants

Canoe

Nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River, Canoe offers a rustic yet elegant atmosphere that is guaranteed to delight your senses. This fine-dining culinary gem offers award-winning cuisine from their Roasted Berkshire pork chop and Southern-style collards to their wood-grilled New York strip—all are sure to gratify your palate. Town & Country Magazine calls this unique setting the “most romantic restaurant in Atlanta.”

The Sun Dial

Situated at the top of the Westin in Downtown Atlanta, The Sun Dial, a rotating restaurant and Atlanta icon, offers sweeping views of the city lights below. Enjoy a prix-fixe, four-course dinner from their special Valentine’s Day menu created by award-winning chefs. Be sure to make reservations beforehand because this is a popular Valentine’s Day spot.

10 Degrees South

Located in Buckhead, 10 Degrees South is the country’s first South African restaurant. The eatery is deeply inspired by family tradition, and the cuisine is crafted by founder Justin Anthony’s parents, who coincidentally are the restaurant’s executive chefs. Their Valentine’s Day menu features dishes such as filet “Au Poivre,” a filet mignon topped with a Madagascan peppercorn sauce, and chicken curry made with traditional South African spices. The bungalow-inspired atmosphere and delectable fare make this culinary experience rated as one of the top 16 restaurants in Buckhead by Trip Savvy.

La Tavola

La Tavola, located at the heart of Virginia-Highland, offers genuine Italian cuisine from Executive Chef Jonathan Beatty. With the cozy, romantic ambiance and hearty dishes, you can’t go wrong with this trattoria for Valentine’s Day. Their menu offers a variety of traditional dishes, from tagliolini to zuppa di pesce, to desserts like chocolate pistachio torte—there’s something for everyone at this hot Italian spot.

Activities

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Get swept through 80 years of romance at the Atlanta Botanical Garden this Valentine’s Day for “Valentines in the Garden: Decades of Love.” Enjoy small bites from some of Atlanta’s most renowned chefs, live music, and more. From the 50s to the 80s, each decade is represented in different sections of the garden, with music and décor constituting accordingly. Dress for the decade of your choice and celebrate the night away!

Oakland Cemetery

For those seeking something unconventional, head over to Oakland Cemetery for “Love Stories of Oakland: Valentine’s Day.” Venture through more than 20 stops in this historic Victorian cemetery as your guide recalls the love stories of Atlantans in the years gone by, as well as hidden symbols of love throughout the hallowed grounds. If you’re looking to escape the traditional route this year, Oakland Cemetery is the way to go.

SkyView Atlanta

Towering over Centennial Park, the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel offers boundless views of downtown while relaxing in climate-controlled gondolas. Take in the vast sights with your sweetheart at this Atlanta staple. If you want to upgrade your experience, try the VIP gondola—it boasts Ferrari-style seats, a glass floor, and a longer ride time.

Flower Arrangement Workshop

Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of embracing your crafty side at Flower Bar’s Valentine’s Day arrangement workshop. Bring your honey, and learn the ins and outs of making your own flower arrangement in this 90-minute class. Once your masterpiece is finished, bring it home with you, and display it proudly for all to see! Even better—all materials are provided, so no scrambling around at the last minute to find what you need.

Weekend Getaways

Chateau Elan Winery and Resort

Located in Braselton, the newly-renovated Chateau Elan is the ideal extravagant weekend getaway. Indulge in a four-course meal, enjoy a relaxing couple’s day at the spa, or partake in a round of golf—there’s something for everyone here. This picturesque resort offers sweeping views of the North Georgia foothills, and its romantic, Southern charm offers an intimate weekend for you to escape bustling city life.

Barnsley Resort

Nestled on historic grounds in Adairsville, Barnsley Resort is essential for those wanting luxury while experiencing all that North Georgia has to offer. Enjoy a guided horseback ride through the grounds of the resort, ride a UTV in the Appalachian foothills, or learn the art of fly fishing at one of the several ponds on the resort grounds. Rejuvenate at the redesigned upscale spa and experience ultimate tranquility. Stay at the Inn or an Estate Cottage. Whatever you do, Barnsley Resort is sure to provide a weekend of relaxation and resurgence.

Callaway Resort & Gardens

Callaway Resort & Gardens, in Pine Mountain, is an oasis that is calling your name. Whether you stay in the Lodge and Spa with views of Robin Lake, The Cottages, or The Villas with a secluded setting, you’ll be enchanted by the beauty this resort has to offer. They’re all about nature and offer numerous immersion activities that put you right in the heart of it all, like BirdFest, which occurs Valentine’s Day weekend. It features bird walks, nature-based workshops, live bird shows, and more. Callaway is also home to the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, one of North America’s largest butterfly conservatories. These beautiful, delicate creatures fly freely among the variety of tropical plants that are housed in the glass-closed environment. If you and your significant other are nature fanatics, this is a destination that is to die for.

Lake Rabun Hotel

The Historic Lake Rabun Hotel, a charming boutique hotel operating since 1922, is the quintessential getaway for those who want to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains and all it encapsulates. Each room exudes rustic charm and offers the perfect amount of privacy. The hotel also operates an award-winning farm to table restaurant surrounded by pines, oaks, and hemlocks. There are plenty of parks, rivers, and waterfalls located nearby, and if you’re tuckered out from outdoor activities, the Lake Rabun Hotel offers a luxurious spa. You can also shop at the various locally-owned stores in nearby Clayton, Dillard, and Lakemont Art Village. The Lake Rabun Hotel has everything you need.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling date night in the city or an idyllic weekend escape, these will certainly make for a Valentine’s Day you’ll always remember in the years to come.

Keeping your cool: fun Atlanta winter activities for the whole family

Winter is here, and with it comes the age-old question: What can you do for fun? Going outside isn’t nearly as appealing as it was a few months ago, and you can only watch so many reruns before your eyes begin to glaze over. But don’t worry – we have some ideas on ways you can make this chilly season fun for the whole family.

Go See the Sights – and the Lights

Many people in your community have already gotten a head start on their outdoor Christmas decorations, and you can expect even more of your neighbors to follow suit. This is the perfect opportunity to create your own special tour of local neighborhoods to check out all of the amazing light displays in the area.

If you’re ready for some even more amazing demonstrations of holiday lighting, head over to Callaway Gardens to view their annual Fantasy in Lights display. The best part about this experience is that it is a driving tour, so even on the chilliest evenings, you can still take your time and enjoy upwards of eight million lights arranged especially for the holidays.

Break out the Skates

Are you looking for ways to get some of that pent-up energy out? You definitely won’t want to miss the chance to go ice skating – especially on the South’s largest ice skating rink. Atlantic Station’s “Skate the Station” is already in full swing, and you can stop by anytime to test your ice skating skills. They even have special extended hours throughout December, so you can make an evening out of racing friends or family to see who is truly the skating champion.

If you want to mix things up, you can also try The Rink at Park Tavern, located in Piedmont Park. This rink opened on Thanksgiving and will be available through January, so skate on over and see if it’s a good fit for your family. This venue also offers free skating for those who dress up in Steampunk attire after 8:00 pm, along with skating for only those who 16 years of age and older after 8:30 PM. Whether you are planning a date night or just want to change up your routine, the ice rink needs to be on your list of things to do.

Take in a Show

Everyone knows that one of the best Christmas classics is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. You’ve probably seen the movie a dozen times – but have you seen it performed live with puppets? The Center for Puppetry Arts is once again presenting its annual Rudolph puppet show, which is a faithful adaptation of the movie you know so well. Children of all ages will enjoy seeing these characters come to life, and there are also crafts and activities available after the show to enrich your experience.

Sometimes getting out in the winter can be difficult, especially when it involves finding everyone’s coats and mittens. But it’s easy to turn a night at home into a holiday experience all by itself. Find a new movie you haven’t seen or look for one of your favorite holiday specials, and sit down with the whole family to watch it together. This is also a great chance to break out the hot chocolate and the snacks you’ve been eyeing at the grocery store. When your movie is finished, take the time to ask your family what they loved most about it – and to tell them to think about what they want to watch for your next movie night!

Try Something New!

This winter season, make it a goal to mix up your routine. Take a pottery class, learn to sew, try your hand at painting on canvas – there are dozens of options available right in your own community. Don’t worry about becoming an expert in just a few short months. Instead, commit to finishing a project or class that will help you learn something you’ve never done before.

Taking on a totally new skill can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone! Ask some friends to join you and try out your new activity together. You might go on a bike tour of the city, or learn to cook your favorite meal. Whatever you do, just have one rule: Make it fun!

Winter is here – but that doesn’t mean you have to wait for summer to enjoy yourself again. In fact, we think winter can be just as fun as any other season. Use this cool weather to find new ways to enjoy yourself and stay warm out there!

Take a hike: four North Georgia gems to try this weekend

It’s Fall, ya’ll—time to trade in the sweltering heat and humidity for the fresh, crisp air and the great outdoors. Our Georgia mountains are full of winding trails that lead to adventure, and they’re practically in your back yard. So, drop the TV remote, grab your hiking gear, and let’s GO!

Whether you’re living life in Atlanta or settling down in suburbia, you could be hiking up a mountain in no time. Here are four of our favorite five-star trails, all within an hour or two of the city:

1. Blood Mountain summit is the highest point of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia and one of the most popular hiking destinations in North Georgia. At 4459 feet, it towers above the peaks of the surrounding southern Appalachians and delivers far and wide views that are simply spectacular.

Blood Mountain is a 4.3-mile view-packed hike that follows the Appalachian Trail to the summit. It begins on the scenic Byron Reece Trail at Neels Gap, leads southwest, and meets the Appalachian Trail at Flatrock Gap. At the trail intersection, the hike heads west and gradually intensifies. Overall, the relatively steep climb is a heart-pounding workout to the summit.

The route’s business season is Fall, mostly because the North Georgia hardwoods explode in color, making the views even more beautiful. Our advice is to grab a cup of coffee and hit the trail early on weekends and during peak season.

2. Ravens Cliff Falls Trail is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in North Georgia. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, it boasts the Raven Cliff Falls, 400 feet of cascading water that slices a massive, towering cliff in half.

The 4.9-mile hike through the waterfall-filled valley begins at a gravel trailhead near Helen, Georgia. It gradually gains elevation along a short incline, levels at about .25 mile, and then descends toward Dodd Creek. The moss and wildflower-lined trail leads over the creek via a wooden bridge, through the hemlock forest, and over several small tributaries.

At the two-mile mark, the hike climbs as you quickly approach a blocky cliff. At the base, you’ll see the creek cascading through the walls of the fractured granite slab, creating the beautiful Ravens Cliff waterfall.

Generally, this hike is appropriate for all skill levels, although it gets slightly steeper at the end. There are lots of areas along the trail to rest, relax, and enjoy the scenery. It’s a popular destination too, so get an early start.

3. Sawnee Mountain Indian Seats Trail leads to the summit of Sawnee Mountain, one of the best views in North Georiga. It hikes over and around the sheer face of Sawnee Mountain, offering breathtaking long-range views of the distant Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is part of the 5+ mile network of running, walking, and hiking trails at the Sawnee Mountain Preserve.

The hike begins at the park’s visitor center on Spot Road in Cumming. You’ll start on a short trail that quickly meets the Indian Seats Loop. Turn left, and the counterclockwise, gradually elevating trail will take you through 1.9 miles of evergreen and deciduous forest, swinging south of the mountain’s summit. It follows a well-marked and well-maintained side trail as it takes you past a gated gold mine entrance that’s carved into the rock outcrop at just over the 1-mile mark. At the summit, there are several natural depressions in the rock, which are said to have been used by local tribes as seats for meditation and lookout centuries ago.

The expansive views of the valley below are incredible, and the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the distant horizon is breathtaking. You can linger as long as you like and will often see people reading, writing, or enjoy the view.

Indian Seats is an easy, fun hike and just 40 miles north of Atlanta. It’s great for the entire family.

4. Panther Creek Falls is one of North Georgia’s favorite waterfall hikes. The 7-mile campsite-studded trail leads through the Chattahoochee National Forest, past several smaller cascading falls, to arrive at the famed Panther Creek Falls. This group of broad, multi-tiered waterfalls cascades into a deep pool on a sandy flat below, creating a view that can only be described as hypnotic.

The trail begins at Chattahoochee National Forest near Tallulah Gorge on the opposite side of Historic 441. It follows the waterway downstream and ventures deep into the forest. Once the trail crosses a small tributary creek at .5 mile, it begins to climb before it reaches a massive rock overhang. The hike crosses over a large wooden bridge at 1.5 miles. At the second bridge, the hike continues to climb along extremely narrow paths and includes some sudden, unexpected drops. You’ll scramble over some chiseled rock outcrops and a few more tributary crossings before you reach the Panther Creek Falls at 3.4 miles. At the base, large boulders line the sandy shoreline, which is an ideal spot for soaking up the beauty of the rushing water…and, of course, resting.

The trail is very popular with day hikers, backpackers, and campers, especially in the summer months when they can spend time relaxing on the warm, sandy beach. It will still be busy in the fall, especially when the leaves are changing, so plan ahead.