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The SCHIMBA weekend at Bankhead was a big success though not as well attended as we expected. (Three out of seven confirmed attendees dropped out for reasons satisfactory to themselves ((Randy’s reason was probably satisfactory as it was his wedding anniversary and his bride apparently did not want to accompany him there)))  Only John, Richard, Ian, and Dennis made the trip.  The weather was perfect and the tree colors spectacular. 

Saturday we took a short hike to Caney Creek falls and down the creek to the lower falls.  We attempted to take a shortcut back to camp by following John’s GPS, but it directed us east to US 231, then north to Addison, and back overland to the camp resulting in a 45 mile tour of central Alabama and the Bankhead NF.  We did enjoy seeing a lot of beautiful trees and farms along the way.  After lunch at about 4 pm Richard, Dennis and John took another short hike up Brushy Creek to another waterfall which they may or may not have actually found. 

Returning to camp we grilled steaks and sausages and turned in about 9. 

After a great camp breakfast we were off for another hike to Coal Mine Waterfall near Brushy Creek.  We parked and after some dispute about the direction (see map below) divided into separate parties.  Richard and John explored some previously unknown territory while Ian and Dennis quickly found the waterfall.  Richard and John then returned to it for a quick view. 

After breaking camp and lunch Richard and John opted for a quick and easy “downhill” bike ride on the Yellow Trail.  A pleasant ride in spite of numerous mud holes and a herd of oncoming horses that were not pleased with bicyclists.  After some confusion as to the meeting place Ian and Dennis picked up the riders and we all returned to Savannah.

Richard, Dennis and Ian also have pictures on their Facebook pages but here are the route maps and some of John’s pictures:

Saturday hike #1 to Caney Creek Waterfalls

 

The “shortcut” back to Brushy Lake Campground through Addison Alabama.

Saturday hike #2 on Brushy Creek

 

Sunday morning hike looking for Coal Mine Falls on Brushy Creek.  The Yellow line is Richards route.  Red is actual route to the falls.

Sunday afternoon bike ride on the Yellow and Blue Trails.

Web pages about Bankhead National Forest:

Bankhead National Forest webpage

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_B._Bankhead_National_Forest

 

Video of Caney Creek Falls:

Coal Mine Falls

Horses crossing Brushy Creek