Panther Creek Falls

I have always had a special relationship with Panther Creek. This is a place that will draw you in, because there is always something new around every corner. Panther Creek is a wild place. If you keep an eye out, you will see all sorts of tracks along the river. Bear, coyote, bobcats, and a slew of other critters make their home in the wilderness along the trail. Panther Creek's trail starts off old 441 and runs 3.5-4 miles and down close to a 1000 feet down to the impressive falls. You will pass through old growth forests, flat river floodplains, and across precarious routes over and under rock outcroppings. Because of the length and difficulty of the terrain at points, I would recommend making this hike as a group. However if you are confident, this trail is worth going alone at least once. 

There is a sense of primal solitude that you can experience when you are alone in the woods, that far away from the business of major highways. Panther Creek is a good place to experience this. I found myself standing on rocks in the middle of the river, just taking in all of the sounds. Rushing water, frogs chirping, and the wind blowing through the trees. 

John Muir said, "In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.". 

Panther Creek is one of those walks that seems to make that statement ring true. Although difficult at times, the hike provides you with an adequate amount of struggle and peace, all the while you hear the sounds of rushing water. That is my happy place.