The Tennessee State Natural Area’s website states that “Lost Creek State Natural Area is a diverse area situated on the western flank of the Cumberland Plateau. Its scenic highlight is the beautiful Lost Creek Falls and Cave in White County. Lost Creek Falls is geologically similar to its nearby cousin, Virgin Falls, in that the creek emerges from large spring, or collapsed cave on top, drops over the 40’ falls, and disappears underground again.” Lost Creek Falls and Cave is a short loop at the trailhead. Then we will travel 0.5 miles by car to the Rylander Cascades trailhead for the hike to Virgin Falls. Along the trail, see the namesake Rylander Cascades and hike the spur to Dry Creek Falls before continuing to Virgin Falls for lunch. After lunch, hike a loop to Sheep Cave, and a campsite on Caney Fork before returning on Rylander Cascades Trail. Total approximately 11 miles, 900 feet elevation gain. Rated Difficult. Carpooling is recommended.

Meet at Lowes Harriman (1800 Roane State Hwy, Harriman, TN. Exit 350 off of I-40.). Plan for time to arrange the carpool, load, and to leave by 7:45 am. Drive to Lost Creek Falls and Cave Trailhead) 1 hour and 30 Minutes, one way 75 miles to the trailhead. Riders round up to pay $11.00 cash to drivers. (Calculation: RT 150 miles x $0.07/mi= $10.50). Everyone meets at Lost Creek Falls and Cave Trailhead, (White’s Cave Rd, Sparta TN 38583) ready to start hiking by 9:30 am. Finish hike by approximately 3:30 pm and return to Lowes by approximately 5:00 pm.

Leaders: Larry Johnson and Myra Moldaw

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.