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Enjoy a picnic, hold a Boy Scout troop meeting or have a family gathering within the historic CCC structures of this wooded recreation area. Directly adjacent to the picnic pavilions visitors can can follow their picnic with a mesmerizing day-hike to the awesome falls on the 6.6 mile Panther Creek Trail.
(Northern end)Trailhead and recreation area: from the Chattooga River Ranger office in Lakemont, travel south on US 441 for 3.5 miles to Historic 441 and turn Rt. Continue on Historic 441 for approx. 1.5 miles. The Panther Creek Recreation Area will be on the right and the trail begins across the street on the left.
(Southern end) Panther Creek Trail: Hwy 184 North (Panther Bridge Rd) which becomes Yonah dam Rd. to Panther Creek Rd. Turn Lt. and follow Panther Creek rd. until it ends at parking lot at southern end of trail.
Great place to hike. They have some picnic areas places to park.
It’s 3.5 miles to the waterfall itself, all downhill going there. The trail is heavily traveled and there are two water crossings with no bridges because of the flood. Anytime after noon you will see at least 50 groups of people. Even at 10 am the place is crowded. Very beautiful, but too many people to enjoy the nature side of it.
Great hike with great views. The last two times I’ve been the bridge has been out when crossing the river so keep that in mind.
Truly loved the park. Multiple sites to access the creek within a half mile of the trail. Picnic tables, bathrooms and ample parking. Wasn’t too crowded, and very easy for two six year olds to have an absolute blast without worrying they’d fall in or get pulled away by any fast moving creeks. Will be returning!
