Читать книгу Afoot & Afield: Atlanta. 108 Spectacular Outings in North-Central Georgia онлайн

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Jacks River begins as a burbling stream and gradually swells as the water cuts through steeper terrain and flows into a ravine. After walking a couple of miles on the trail, you can begin to look for wide areas of flat ground along the riverbank to serve as campsites. At 2.3 miles (Waypoint 2), the trail crosses Jacks River—it’s wise to use a trekking pole for balance here, because the rocks in the stream are very slick.

At 2.7 miles (Waypoint 3), look right for an excellent camping spot in the shade of hemlocks. With space for two or three tents, this wide clear section of the bank lies above a large pool; yards downstream, a cascade is just the right size for a water back massage.

Jacks River

As you continue, you’ll ascend to traverse the bluff above the stream, then make a short, steep descent to a second river crossing at 2.9 miles. Compared with the previous crossing spot, the channel here is narrower and the water flows fast, so you might want to steady yourself with trekking poles. Once you’re across, scramble up the short, steep bank and begin a gradual descent. At times, the river far below is a loud yet welcome companion, and small breaks in the trees reveal whitewater crashing through the ravine.