Casual Climbers: Unfit Hikers in the Carolinas

Blue Ridge Parkway: Graveyard Fields Loop Trail

This week, we discuss a waterfall loop trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Graveyard Fields Loop with upper and lower falls spurs. Donna talks about the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute and reviews her favorite hiking boots - Keen Pyrenees.

Pisgah National Forest: Pink Beds Loop Trail

This week, we discuss a fascinating loop trail in the Pisgah National Forest, the Pink Beds Loop. Donna tells the story of the birth of forestry in the U.S., the amazing Edith Vanderbilt Dresser, and we review the Cradle of Forestry Visitor Center in the park.

Blue Ridge Parkway: Craggy Bottoms Trail

This week, we discuss a great trail right on the Blue Ridge Parkway: Craggy Gardens Trail. Donna tells the story of the first white settlers to the area and the bravery of two women, including an American patriot Ruth Davidson, and we review the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center right on the parkway.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Metcalf Bottoms Trail

This week, we discuss a fairly easy, but historically significant trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: the Metcalf Bottoms trail and Walker Sisters homestead. Donna tells the story of the incredible and fascinating Walker Sisters of Greenbrier Cove, and I review GuideAlong, a great app for traveling.

Table Rock State Park: Pinnacle Mountain Falls Trail

This week, we discuss a very challenging, but interesting trail at Table Rock State Park in South Carolina: the Pinnacle Mountain Falls trail. Donna tells the story of the prehistoric petroglyphs on the mountain, and I review my new favorite hiking backpack.

Keowee-Toxaway State Park: Natural Bridge Loop Trail

This week, we discuss a short, but beautiful trail at Keowee-Toxaway State Park in South Carolina: the Natural Bridge Loop trail. Donna tells the story of the now-submerged 18th century Fort Prince George, and we review Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower, the highest point in the state. 

Jones Gap State Park: Rainbow Falls Trail

This week, we discuss the very challenging Rainbow Falls trail at Jones Gap State Park. Donna tells the story of famous American roadbuilder Solomon Jones, and we review a great local hangout and diner: F-Mart in Marietta, SC. This one definitely brought the pain for us unfit hikers, and you won't want to miss our tips to make it the best hike possible.

Stumphouse Tunnel and Issaqueena Falls

This week, we have an easy "two-fer" featuring the Issaqueena Falls waterfall and unfinished 19th century train tunnel in upstate South Carolina. We also discuss the tunnel history and construction and the legend about Issaqueena Falls, as well as a product review of my new favorite hiking accessory. 

Oconee State Park: Hidden Falls Trail

This week, we talk about a trail featuring two waterfalls in upstate South Carolina: Hidden Falls Trail at Oconee State Park. We also discuss the incredible historic Cherokee Trail Trees you can see on the trail, as well as the nearby Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina. 

Oconee Station State Historical Site: Station Cove Falls Trail

This week, we talk about one of the easiest, yet most rewarding waterfall hikes in upstate South Carolina: The Station Cove Falls trail. We also discuss the 18th Century buildings at the park, as well as one of the coolest little produce stand/general stores in the region - Picket Post Produce.