Wave at Morgan Falls from Gold Branch !

Months ago, when Tony C. realized that Gold Branch was visible from Morgan Falls, he was intrigued with the idea of having two AOC groups hike simultaneously at each location and wave to each other across the Bull Sluice Lake.  That idea is finally coming to fruition. Tony will have his group hiking the Morgan Falls lake trail while we take our group on the Gold Branch side.  If everything works according to plan, we'll be able to see each other from a distance and take some pictures.  Then we can complete our hikes as usual.

This will be a fairly brisk hike with a chance to pause periodically to regroup and catch our breath, if needed.   The terrain is hilly with some short, steep ascents, so it provides a good workout.  The views of the river and Bull Sluice Lake are always beautiful and never fail to lift spirits.  We will be near the shoreline throughout much of the hike.

This is NOT a beginner's hike or a hike for someone who is not in good shape.  We don't want to hold up the group, so if you can't keep up a fairly fast pace on hilly terrain, please get in shape with some D2's before tackling this hike.

We'll allow 3 members with dogs on the hike, so if three dog-people are already registered, please do not add yours.  Dogs should be able to keep up the pace and should be kept under control at all times.  There is a leash law at this and all CNRA trails, with a $75 fine per dog if violated (and caught!).

This is a unit of the CNRA, so a $3 parking fee is required (if you don't have an annual pass). Be sure to bring the correct amount in cash and arrive in time to purchase a day permit. 
 

Gold Branch is on Lower Roswell Road, between Johnson Ferry Road and Wileo Road.  The sign is very easy to miss, because it's between some exclusive residential areas and is hidden until you are right at the entrance.  If you're coming from Johnson Ferry Road, it's on the right, about 2 miles from Johnson Ferry.  If you're coming from Wileo, it's also a couple of miles, but on your left.  If you're following Azalea Drive and turn left onto Wileo, be aware that Wileo becomes Lower Roswell Road when it does a 90 degree left turn.  The park is 2 miles further down Lower Roswell - - on your left. Remember, it's very easy to pass right by it, so slow down and look for the little turn-off after 2 miles!  Here is the link providing detailed instructions:

http://www.np s.gov/chat/planyourvisit/goldbranch.htm  

The coordinates are 33.98237094  and -84.385314

$3 parking fee at this location.

Trail map available at
http://www.nps.gov/chat/planyourvisit/upload/Trail-Map-2006-Gold- Branch-B&W.pdf