Toms Creek Falls

The boy and I decided to check out Toms Creek Falls.  This little gem isn't too far off the beaten path and is well worth the trip.  The parking area is a small, gravel, road side lot.  There is a kiosk marking the trail head.

We began this easy hike into the cove forest.  The path is mainly gravel and other parts are well worn, so you shouldn't get lost.

There is a foot bridge to cross over a little creek.  We made our way to the primitive campsites and down to Toms Creek.

We then made our way to the waterfall deck.  It provides a nice view of the falls.  A tree had fallen recently and we had to climb over it.  I'm sure it has been removed.  Little Man wanted to continue up the trail to get a better view.

We headed up and over a few large rocks and then down to the base of the falls.  This was the best view!

We enjoyed our short mile long excursion to Toms Creek Falls.  We can't wait to return with other family members to show them!

Joseph McDowell Historical Catawba Greenway Trail

Little Man and I decided to go exploring in the Marion, NC area.  We stumbled upon the Joseph McDowell Historical Catawba Greenway trail.  This little gem is well worth a visit!

The small parking area was almost full when we arrived, but the trail is about two miles long (4 round trip) and the foot traffic was spread out.  At times we saw no one on the trail.  When we did see others, everyone was friendly.

Little Man loved the exercise/fitness portion of the trail.  He had to try out each piece of equipment.

The path is paved and level.  It has plenty of shade and nice views of the Catawba river. There are two fishing decks along the river.  Several sloping areas to access the river along the trail.  We saw one man fly fishing in the river.  There are also several benches along the trail to stop and take a break if needed.

We enjoyed finding a variety of insects along the path.  We also spotted several squirrels, slider turtles, woodpecker, and song birds.

We decided to follow the Round Hill loop and climb to the top of Round Hill.  The steep climb to the top of Round Hill will get your cardio going!

We can't wait to return and take our fishing poles to see what we can catch from the Catawba river!