Panther Creek Trail & Falls (Hike and Swim)

Summary:

This 11-mile round-trip hike starts at Panther Creek Recreation Area just north of Turnerville, Georgia on US 441. From the recreation area, the blue blazed trail progresses east to the magnificent Panther Creek Falls. The steeply sloping path descends to the bottom of the falls, and then continues a few more miles to Davidson Creek. We will then retrace our path approximately 6 miles back to the trailhead.

Details:

From the parking area we pass a number of shoals along the creek and after approximately 3.5 miles we will arrive at Panther Creek Falls where we will take a break long enough to enjoy lunch. After our lunch break we will continue along the trail down to the trail's end at Davidson Creek. This part of the trail below the falls has some very steep, rocky climbs, with the possibility of some fallen trees which we may have to go around or climb over. However, this part of the trail is supposed to be very interesting and the forest service has given it a special designation of "Panther Creek Botanical Area," as it supports unique flora and fauna. This area of the forest also contains larger, more mature, forest species of Oak, Tuliptree, Basswood, and American Beech. On the return journey we will again stop at the Panther Creek falls and take a break for a dip in the pool at the base of the falls.

This hike is rated a D5 for distance and some potentially difficult steep rocky climbs and fallen trees, so hikers should be in sufficient physical shape. There is a very steep ascent of approximately 650' between the bottom of the falls and Davidson Creek. In this one mile section, it will be roughly the equivalent of a Stone Mountain ascent. It is anticipated that we will cover at least 2000' of total ascent on this trail, and we may do a few brief side trails for additional viewing opportunities, which could potentially add another mile to the hike. As such, it is strongly recommended that you have recent D4 or D5 hiking experience. Since we will be swimming in the pool below the falls, you may want to wear a bathing suit under your hiking clothes, or bring one in your backpack.

Disclosure: Your TL's, who enjoy exploring new places as much as you do, have not hiked this trail recently. By all accounts this trail is well marked and we have studied the guide books and maps.  But please have a sense of adventure and be in sufficient physical condition to hike a little extra mileage if we should miss a turn somewhere.

There is a $3 fee to park at the Panther Creek Recreation Area. Drinking fountains and a restroom are supposedly located at the recreation area near the trail head.

Travel north on I-85 and then exit left on I-985 north.  Continue traveling north on I-985 which will become route US 23.  Continue north on US 23 and just just past Turnerville, turn left on Travis Smith Rd. Travel approximately 0.1 mile to the intersection of US 441 Historical.  Turn right on US 441 Historical and travel approximately 0.8 miles to the Panther Creek Recreation area parking lot on your left.