Upper and Lower South Caney Creek Falls Dayhike (unofficial trail)

From the rough parking area, proceed past the gate blocking the road, and begin walking down the old gravel logging road. You may choose to squeeze around the gate, but there is also a small side track around to your right, if you can't manage the squeeze. Within a few feet, you encounter an old gate that is bent at an odd angle on your right. After several minutes, the road makes a slight left turn, and after several more you encouter a large area that appears to have been logged at some point. Continue past this area along the road, which slowly begins to fade in condition, until finally it becomes a trail when you begin to make your descent into Caney Creek's drainage. You'll know you are getting close when you pass some SERIOUSLY heavy and recent deadfall (be careful) and then encouter many hemlocks.

Where the hemlocks become the predominate tree species, you'll start to notice several side trails, and you'll be presented with some choices. If you head to your left, you'll encounter some well-used campsites along So. Caney Creek, above the upper falls. Stay away from the top of the falls, and keep a close eye on your children and pets. However, to get to the base of the falls, and continue on with the trail, you'll need to keep heading downhill, following the trace in the hemlock needles. As the trail looks like it goes over a cliff, you'll be presented with the choice of heading down a steep washout, or making a slight curve, to make the left towards the falls, which should be easily heard by now. Take the slight curve. Follow the VERY narrow trace along the edge of the small "cliff", keeping a close eye out to not slip and make the mostly assuredly painful or even deadly fall down to So. Caney Creek on your right. Be really careful after rain, and watch your footing. Yes, the ledge sounds hollow. After a few short steps, you'll be within view of the upper falls, and the path will be evident. If you are lucky, the water level will be sufficient for the smaller side falls to be flowing at the upper falls.

After enjoying yourselves at the base of the upper falls, and even spending some time behind the falls if you wish, you have a decision to make. You can head home without making a stream crossing, or you can cross the stream and further explore the upper falls, and then head downstream to the lower falls. If you chose to cross, the way is evident. Where the curved tree meets the creek, at the end of the plunge pool, a collection of rocks allows for a mostly dry crossing at reasonable water levels. Cross here, and enjoy the new view of the upper falls. That tree really was rude to fall there, huh? To reach the lower falls, follow the trace that heads downstream from the crossing. Several crossings will be required, so be prepared to get wet. Above the lower falls there is a really steep spot, and you need to be VERY carefull. Leaving is the reverse of how you came.

Distance/Time Information:

Total Hiking Distance to Upper Falls (one-way): ~.75mi
Total Hiking Time to Upper Falls (one-way): 30mins
Total Hiking Distance to Lower Falls (one-way): ~1.5mi
Total Hiking Time to Lower Falls (one-way, includes some time at upper falls): 75-90mins

Suggested Equipment: Camera Gear, Waterproof Boots if making stream crossings for lower falls, Water, Snack, Navigational Equipment.

Key Coords:
Parking: 34 14.119N 087 29.047W
Upper Falls: 34 14.736N 087 25.975W