Well, how's this for timing? That night a system passed through that saw flurries down low and a dusting of snow up high. So we knew as we headed out that morning that things were in our favor. Unfortunately, it was still cloudy and one couldn't see above 5,000 feet where most of the snow had fallen on all the mountain peaks. Our plan was to drive out to Cades Cove and enjoy the sights there, but with it clouded over, there wouldn't be much difference in what we saw when we were last there together in November. The weather forecast called for some sun to show up in the afternoon, so with hopes of the clouds either lifting or burning off, we decided to hit up Tremont first and do a short hike on the way.
The drive out to Tremont was enjoyable and traffic was nearly non existent. The snowplows were just getting started on clearing the roads and Newfound Gap Road across the park was closed because of the freshly fallen snow. We had plans to drive that way later in the day, so we were hoping the conditions would improve on our return. Roads were somewhat slick during the approach to Fighting Creek Gap, but after that the roads cleared and the flurries in the air weren't able to stick to the pavement. During the drive out we continued to admire the clarity of the water that parallels the road. I also tried to picture what the roadsides would look like in another month or two when the wildflowers awaken from their chilly slumber and bring the park to life.
The Spruce Flat Falls Trail was one I hadn't done before, but the pictures I had seen gave me the impression that it was one of the better ones in the park. I was in need for another new mile and this hike was a perfect fit for what we had planned for the day. One has to park at the GSMIT and walk a bit to the trailhead because of the facilities there and people's privacy. If you never been there before, look for "falls trail" signs where the service road terminates or at the beginning of the Lumber Ridge Trail. When we got out of the vehicle, it was a bit chilly, but once we got moving and our blood flowing, things would surely warm up.
Right from the start the trail was covered in a thin but slick layer of snow. The way up has a number of switchbacks at first and requires a few yards worth of big step-ups. Careful footing was a must around log steps because they were especially slick and you could find yourself on your rear end in a hurry if caught unaware. There are a number of spur trails that may spark curiosity, but there are signs that point one in the right direction to the falls. After making our way around a small water tank, the trail cuts up and over the ridge, away from Tremont, and into the woods. It was such a relief to be in the woods and simultaneously exciting because of all the snow on the ground. Finally, a winter hike with the feel of winter! Some sections were a bit daunting like snow covered leaves still sitting on the trail, or the steps carved into a log that would work better as a launching pad for a sled.