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Submission
From Harriman take Hwy. 27 North to Wartburg. Turn right (East) on Hwy. 62. Travel 2 miles and turn left on Flat Fork Road. Travel 4 miles to the park entrance.
Emory Gap hike starts at the Panther Branch trailhead. At about a mile'ish, Panther Branch goes right and Emory Gap starts. Great hike, easy and slightly elevated. Follows the creek for most of the way and is fully under the tree canopy. There are areas to stop and get wet if you desire. The State Park office was very clean and the staff member we spoke with, very helpful. Pick up a trail map at the desk. Has better trail markings than the basic one in the hallway of the office. If you are
This park was absolutely beautiful. The sites are close together, so not much privacy, but the bathrooms with showers were exceptionally clean, and the surroundings are so beautiful they'll take your breath away. There were several hiking trails available, though we weren't able to take advantage of them since we stayed only one night. The rangers patrolled a few times and were very friendly to talk with. Camp was completely quiet after hours. Very dog friendly. There were picnic tables scattered all over the place on the road in, a playground, and a volleyball court as well. I highly recommend this park! Oh, don't be surprised.. there is a prison you'll pass on the way in, but we didn't feel uncomfortable at all.
Hiked a 6.5 mile loop. Took us 3.5 hrs, 1006 elevation gain, 19,000 steps. We planned the hike after a big rain so we could see waterfalls during our hike. It did not disappoint. Parked at the north Old Mac trailhead but walked 1 mile on the park road to the Panther Creek and Old Mac campsite trailhead. Headed up to Debord falls then right on a connecting trail to the north Old Mac trail, then down to our vehicle. Many water crossings. Saw wild Javelina hogs (2 adults and about 12 young ones) rooting. They ran away when they saw us. Excellent January 26th hike. Around 50° overcast.
The park is a whole experience and the staff is awesome and very friendly. The staff at the check in and gift shop were super nice and informative about the park. The rangers I came in contact with were courteous and you could tell they enjoyed their job.
The park is super clean with some of the best hiking trails that I've ever saw.
The falls and trees out here are just lovely! Great trails and plenty of spots for a picnic!
