There were 14 folks on Sunday, and when it was over, about 1,100 feet of new trail was built. The new trail, when it s opened, will bring hikers along Matts Creek the rest of the way from the shelter to the James River, then follow the James downstream to the new bridge. There are numerous pools in the creek to take a dip, and plenty of good swimming areas along the James, including a couple of sandy beach spots. There will also be a good spot to jump in the river from the bank where the bridge will begin. If you loved the late-night sound of that lonely freight train in the Nolichucky Gorge, you ll love this spot.
Trains run upriver both night and day.