The Falls and Canyon--September 14, 2013

Wonder of Wonders, they got on the road to Alabama ahead of schedule. OK it was only one minute early, but probably a record of sorts. The early-bird seven (Dennis, Steve, Robert L., Larry, Mark, Abby and Bob S.) were headed for De Soto Falls, the Little River Canyon and Cave Springs. They picked up Paul in Rydal, while Dan, on his new Triumph Tiger, rode with the group a while, then turned back at Crystal Springs to prepare for a flight north.

The route took them up through Summerville and Menlo Georgia, then turned south at Mentone, Alabama onto a narrow county road (89) that passed by the back yards of Lookout Mountain mansions that have an outstanding westward view of the valley below.

Soon they took a turn eastward and in short order came to De Soto Falls. The park, with its lake, cascades and waterfall bring back memories of times when natural areas had few fences and other safeguards but "allowed" visitors to explore where perhaps they shouldn't. It makes for a good experience but, as Dennis noted, folks do get swept over the falls every year.

From the falls they rode through De Soto State Park headed for the Little River Canyon. But before heading down the rim road they stopped at Ralph's, the only eatery for miles around. Its not much to look at, and easily missed, but the food and service are good and they even take credit cards now.

The Little River Canyon tour started with a walk down the boardwalk to a point overlooking what is often a spectacular view of the Little River Falls. This day it was not in full flow however, and a small group of what seemed to be teenagers, were having a ball swimming and ducking under the falling water (just beyond the "No Trespassing" signs).

On the ride down the canyon's rim (Al 176) the group took in the views at the pull offs at Wolf Creek, Canyon View and finally, Eberhart Point. Here the group split up, with Larry, Steve and Bob S. taking the bait to head down to the river level on a road festooned with signs warning of steep grades and poor road surfaces, while the rest took in the wonders offered by the towns of Lickskillet and Dog Town on the recommended route to Leesburg. As it turned out the steep descents of the warned-against route was somewhat over hyped although one section, on purposely corrugated concrete (for traction), was unusual.

The group reformed in Leesburg and headed west to Georgia with a stop at a pleasant little park in Cave Springs. Now back in Georgia, on familiar roads, folks began to go their separate ways with Robert L. wanting to catch a flight to Bermuda, Steve wanting to shift into 6th gear and others taking the shortest way home for them.

A great ride. Perfect weather and clear roads. Calls for a do-over at another time.