Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
handiwork a half mile into the hike when you come to a large trail shelter over-
looking the gorge.
The hike itself is moderately steep in some areas but not too difficult. Many
sections of the trail are lined with rhododendron, mountain laurel, and azalea. The
off-white blossoms and their sweet fragrance fill the air in late spring, usually
peaking by the third week of May. The trail is marked with paint blazes: blue for
the Pool Loop approach trail, lime green for the Cabin Trail, and yellow for the
DeSoto Scout Trail itself. Additionally you will see a few yellow wooden signs
marked with red DST lettering.
Your hike begins at the state park's pool. During the summer you can park here
in the large paved lot. During the off-season vehicle access is prohibited (the lot is
chained off), so instead park a few dozen yards away at the tennis courts. The blue
Pool Loop Trail begins on the left side (north) of the pool's parking lot as you are
looking at the pool. A brown post with a hiker logo on it leads the way into the
woods here. This section of the Pool Loop is a very pretty 0.25-mile walk through
a “tunnel” of azalea, rhododendron, and holly and follows the banks of Sharp's
Creek as it tumbles into the river. After a good rain you will see, and hear, some
really nice cascades and small falls.
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