**NEW MESSAGING!!** We will use this upper "Details" section for important updates, especially as the hike date draws near. Each update will have the date, time, and a brief message. If it needs further elaboration, it will also appear in the Comment Section. Hopefully, this will ensure everyone sees those important last minute messages!

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**NEW POLICY:** *Whether you are on the Going List or the Wait List, **please also submit the event-specific waiver when you sign up below.** Waivers NOT RECEIVED by **April 19th** will result in being removed from both Going List and Wait List. Also, attendance confirmation four weeks prior will also be required. This is a very popular hike and we don't want those that truly want to attend denied that chance because RSVP's haven't been updated and/or waivers haven't been submitted.*
[https://app.cleverwaiver.com/render/templateByRefId/60c6dcad08ae6e3ec768a8e7?event=PantherCreekFallsHike-05.10.25](https://app.cleverwaiver.com/render/templateByRefId/60c6dcad08ae6e3ec768a8e7?event=PantherCreekFallsHike-05.10.25)

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There are three creeks to cross...*without a bridge*. The first creek crossing (about 1.4 miles from the start/end) requires either wading through the creek or balancing on several not-very-big fallen logs. See photos, read captions!

* **This is important: there is no way to hike this trail without getting wet and muddy/dirty**. I plan to take several pairs of wool socks to change in and out of (vs bringing along sandals) PLUS a change of clothes for dinner.

The trail starts out very, VERY rooty and rocky, but is also flat and sandy at other times. There is considerable uphill AND downhill in places which does require some flexible maneuvering, climbing up big rocks, and then later scooting down those same rock faces. The hike back out is where you really feel that uphill part of the trail. Having said all that...the trail is gorgeous and the falls are spectacular. Hopefully, we will be surrounded by many varieties of wildflowers as we saunter along, soaking in the beauty around us.

**DISTANCE AND DIRECTIONS**:

* It is approximately 3.5 miles to the falls, totaling a 7 mile day.
* **CARPOOLING IS ADVISED!!!** Hopefully we will be able to park a limited number of vehicles along the road. There is also a paid parking area **($4.00** via a QR code at the kiosk), close to the **bathroom** (two pit toilets, each with a large enough area to change clothing).
* For those coming from the south, the **Oakwood Park & Ride at 3631-3655 Wallis Road, Flowery Branch** is where we will meet to carpool. This is right off Exit 16 on the 985. Please arrive at the Park & Ride by 7:45AM.
* **WE WILL LEAVE FROM OAKWOOD PARK & RIDE by 8:00AM.**

**WHAT TO BRING:**

* Please dress in wicking clothing, possibly in layers. No cotton, please. Also, hats, sunscreen, and bug spray may be needed.
* **Hiking poles are highly recommended**.
* **BE PREPARED** to get in the swimming hole...it just might be warm enough! A swim suit or sport bra and shorts will work just fine. Don't forget a lightweight towel, too. :)
* **Plastic bags** for wet/dirty clothes AND for picking up trash on the hike out. :)
* Shoes with good gripping soles are super important on the rocky areas we'll be going over.
* Bring at least 2 liters of water, electrolytes, snacks and a lunch.
* **Dogs:** Well mannered, non aggressive dogs will be allowed IF you are NOT planning to attend the dinner afterwards in Clarkesville. This means you will also probably be driving on your own. Six foot, non-retractable leashes only and poop clean up a must.

For more current information on the trail and reviews, see the link below.
[https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/georgia/panther-creek-falls](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/georgia/panther-creek-falls)

**AFTER THE HIKE:**
Let's plan to have an early dinner at Your Pie Pizzeria in Clarkesville, GA.
[https://www.yourpie.com/locations/ga/clarkesville/1406-washington-street](https://www.yourpie.com/locations/ga/clarkesville/1406-washington-street)

**CONSEQUENCES OF A NO SHOW** \- To accommodate all\, Trail Dames has a 3\-strikes\-you\- are\-out policy for NO SHOWS\. Please make sure your RSVP is accurate at least 24 hours prior to event start\. If there is a same day emergency\, reach out to the hike leaders\, please\.

**TRAIL DAMES COVID-19 GUIDELINES:**  All local laws regarding social distancing, group size, mask usage, and other COVID-19 issues must be followed and supersede anything Trail Dames might impose.  When carpooling, please respect the driver’s wishes regarding mask usage.  And as always, if you are ill or experiencing any flu-like symptoms, please do not attend Trail Dames events.

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1) Did you also submit the waiver when you signed up? 2) Will you commit to changing your RSVP if you find out you will not be able to attend? 3) Are your Meetup phone app notifications set to receive notices when Comments and Emails are sent?

Panther Creek Falls - 7 miles - Dynamic Hike 

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