The Spence Ridge Trail to the Linville River and The Upper Creek Falls Loop - Spruce Pine, NC

“What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps one in a continual state of inelegance.” - Jane Austen

“That my plans have lately gone somewhat awry is the sort of risk one must take if life is to be superb.” - Gore Vidal

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The Story -

On Saturday morning, Ginger, Sophie, and I hiked the difficult out-and-back three-mile Spence Ridge Trail to the Linville River in the Linville Gorge and the moderate two-mile loop trail to the Upper Creek Falls near Spruce Pine, NC. Our plan was to continue across the only bridge over the Linville River to the west and hike the Linville Gorge River Trail, yet the bridge was in disrepair and missing several sections due to heavy winds and rain. Thus, we decided to turn around instead of trying to cross the dangerous fast-flowing chest-high deep river. With our planned hike cut short, we opted to stop at the nearby Upper Creek Falls Loop Trail. The gorgeous waterfall loop trail seemed like an excellent consolation option, yet our experience was anything but consoling.

Below are photos from our day and more information about our hiking (mis)adventures -

It was a chilly 62° at the start of our hike 😀 I do like to start my hikes in a long sleeve t-shirt in the summer even if I shed it rather quickly. I think it is nice to have an extra shirt in my pack, and it came in handy on this hike. I’ll explain later, keep reading 😂

Sophie always leads the way at the beginning of our hikes. Maybe it’s the pent-up energy from being in the back of the car for the ride. The trail brings out her inner puppy, and Sophie’s excitement is usually too much to contain. Notice all of the pine needles and roots.

Despite extreme heat in the area lately, spring is still not lost deep in the gorge as Rhododendron blooms were prevalent everywhere. Beautiful.

There were numerous big boulders and rocks along the trail. The rocks would increase as we descended the trail.

Large fantastic ferns lined the trail in numerous spots.

First small creek crossing among several we would cross. Almost a dry crossing with limited precipitation in the area lately.

Ginger has a special eye for nature and especially loves unique trees.

First cascade sighting. We could hear the water most of the trail yet couldn’t see it until late in the hike.

Mandatory hikery pose #1 with a panting Sophie.

Mandatory hikery pose #2. A boy and his dog, and a sweaty towel I always carry on our summer hikes.

Spring Green beginning to turn to summer weeds. Tick check required.

End of the road. Spot where bridge used to be.

Remainder of bridge washed away in 2014.

Linville River is full of cascades and large boulders.

Remnants of what once was the only east-to-west bridge across Linville River in the Gorge.

Perfect spot for a snack break.

Pinewood Gingertail Mushrooms

Even bigger boulders

Eastern American Platterful Mushroom

Artistic shot overlooking a swimming hole.

Upper Creek Falls - this is the spot that Sophie and I I fell in the river, scaring us both. The trail was steep and slippery, and once we started sliding, I could not stop. A reminder that nature can be very dangerous and to always be careful. Fortunately, neither of us were injured other than our ego.

Stop at the Brown Mountains overlook on our way home. Great end to an eventful day.

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