Lumber Ridge Loop

This was a pleasant probably 8-9 ml. day hike which started from the Tremont parking lot and Lumber Ridge trail. The sky was overcast with high gray clouds and temperatures probably in the lower 50's. The "Mysterious One" led the way for most of the first 3 miles which is a consistent incline and then levels off for about a mile before connecting with the Meigs Creek and Meigs Mountain trails. At this point, Buckhorn Gap, we began the unmapped section of the hike by turning right down a steep nameless trail which is frequented by groups from the Institute and those of us who are aware of this section of trail.
Just a short distance down the trail the grade lessens and there is evidence of a logging camp at which we found a log to sit on and eat some lunch. Throughout the next 4 miles there are obvious signs of an old railway on which cut timber was once hauled out on. These signs came in the form of rusting portions of track, cables, and assorted iron pieces scattered about. This section of trail follows Spruce Flat Branch, making numerous stream crossings, until you reach Spruce Flat Falls (approx. 4mls.), and then descends on some short and steep switchbacks down to the base of the falls. Today we saw some folks taking pictures here as we crossed the stream and completed the last mile of the hike.