Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
There are thousands of acres to explore and countless hikes available to the adventurer ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. One of our favorite geological forms to discover are waterfalls so we try to see a few everywhere we go. We had been hit by heavy rains for the past few days so we took the first opportunity we could to head out on a hike once the weather slacked off.
The hike out to see Angel Falls is relatively level with a path that is wide and well worn. The trail follows the river bank offering many views of the water flowing by. Occasionally we were met by pretty bridge crossings with smaller streams cascading down the mountainside and under our feet before joining the larger river. There were also periodic rock bluffs and small overhangs to explore the geological history that formed the park.
The recent rains brought nature to life filling small streams that would normally be dry and brightening all of the foliage. We met some friendly snails, many frogs and lots of other small critters out enjoying the wet ground. The flowering plants were full and bright and the mosses and mushrooms were as pretty as can be.
Due to heavy rains for the past few days the river was so swollen that the falls weren't visible. The drop of the falls and the beautiful exposed rocks that make up the river bed were almost entirely submerged. But even without the falls it was a beautiful hike and a great way to spend time with family.