By definition, a Vortex is a place where people have reported feeling powerful forces of energy and connectivity to their spirituality, typically located near an interesting rock formation. We set off in search of Vortex Falls and found a “VORTEX.”
The Barker Point Trailhead leads into a dense stand of tall pines. The first mile of our hike wended across Walden’s Ridge over easy dells on a thick bed of pine straw.
This was our second trip into the North Chickamauga Creek Gorge. The Cumberland Trail is still under construction in this area and hiking details are sketchy. We set out to find illusive Vortex Falls.
The trail got steeper and rockier as we descended deeper into the ravine. This rock outcrop looked like a turtle’s head to me. Karen saw a roaring lion’s head. Rock formations are like clouds, presenting different images to each observer.
The trail follows old jeep and mining roads in some places. The last half-mile near the bottom was severely washed out and rocky.
This beautiful cascade flows from a deep pool in front of a giant rock house carved by North Chickamauga Creek.
Locals call the overhangs, like this one created by North Chickamauga Creek, a “Rock House.” The tranquil pool in front of the imposing ledge belies the massive forces of high water that sculpted it from the sandstone cliffs.
North Chickamauga Creek forms a beautiful cascade that flows under a sturdy bridge into the blue hole in front of the gaping Rock House.
Our trek began in search of Vortex Falls, which eluded us at the end of an unmarked spur trail only the locals knew about. Our planned two-mile, round-trip hike turned into 4.5-miles, but led us to this spot for lunch and a peaceful nap. We missed finding Vortex Falls, but found our “Vortex.”