I was not registered for this hike but somehow ended up going on it. The logistics were to meet at the ending point in Elkmont at the parking area for Little River Trail. The parking area was littered with broken glass, a result of car cloating. From here were we driven by van to the parking area for Clingmans Dome. From there is was a nice 13.2 mile walk, almost all of it downhill.
I chose to keep the birders company at the rear of the peloton. It was a real thrill when the sweep, Meredith called in, phished, a Chestnut Sided Warbler to within 15 to 20 feet. What a gorgeous bird. I felt lost among the experienced birders who knew all the warbler calls, the Mountain Wren, the Junco - OK the Junco is no big deal.
We followed the AT for a couple miles meeting a fair number of "Thru Hikers". Once we turned on the Goshen Prong Trail, the backpackers ceased. This is a tremendous pathway with creekside vistas, waterfalls and lots of wildflowers. Once we left Goshen Prong for Little River Trail, we were treated to more flowers and a larger riverside with waterfalls. Even at the 13.2 mile mark I didn't want the hike to end. It was 5pm and I bid adieu to my companions. There were still a couple treats on the return drive. The flowers below were roadside by the old Wonderland Hotel. there was also a yearling (bear) causing a stir adjacent to the Laurel falls parking area
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