Reviving Our Love for Hiking: Conquering the 8+ mile Pine Mountain and White Candle Trail Loop, F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Georgia

This past weekend, we embarked on an eagerly anticipated return to the world of hiking, directing our attention towards the extensive Pine Mountain Trail and White Candle Loop Trails at F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Georgia. It must be acknowledged that we had previously traversed similar distances and explored the remarkable terrains of F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Nevertheless, following a substantial hiatus, this particular excursion held an added layer of challenge and exhilaration.

Pine Mountain and White Candle Trail Loop

Our expedition hike began at Mile Marker 23, a prominent location along the Pine Mountain Trail. Right from the outset, we veered left, signifying the official initiation of our odyssey. The pathway we traversed was adorned by verdant foliage and serenaded by the enchanting melodies of distant birds, crafting a flawless atmosphere for what promised to be a demanding yet profoundly gratifying day.

Odie Overlook

Not long after commencing our trek, we serendipitously stumbled upon a captivating spectacle – the mesmerizing Odie Overlook. The breathtaking panoramic vista it unveiled served as our inaugural reward, reigniting our profound affection for the art of hiking.

Ferney – The Massive Pine Tree

Continuing along the trail, we chanced upon Ferney, an awe-inspiring colossal pine tree that exuded an air of awe and enigma. One can scarcely fathom the magnificence of a tree that has garnered a name; I have never before encountered such an immense specimen of the pine variety! We couldn’t resist pausing for a moment to bask in the presence of this majestic giant, standing tall and unwavering, symbolizing the resilience and splendor of the natural world.

Cascade Falls

Having braved a grueling journey spanning over six arduous miles, we finally arrived at the crown jewel of waterfalls at F.D. Roosevelt State Park – the resplendent Cascade Falls. The symphony of cascading water and the awe-inspiring sight of the falls bestowed upon us a revitalizing breath of fresh air, imbuing us with a profound sense of tranquility. It served as a welcome respite for our weary bodies and stood as a testament to our unwavering determination.

Following a brief respite on the benches at Cascade Falls, where we indulged in a light snack and allowed our bodies a momentary reprieve, we resumed our hike to bring our expedition to a close. Despite the undeniable splendor that enveloped us, weariness began to seep in around the seventh mile. My feet felt burdened, as if encased in lead, growing heavier with each successive step. The crimson hue of my face, flushed from exertion and deepening further as we persisted, bore witness to my ambitious – some might say overly zealous – planning.

What was initially conceived as a simple return to the world of hiking had transformed into a veritable test of endurance, akin to a grueling marathon. Nevertheless, amidst the strenuous path and the energy-draining distance, a silver lining revealed itself. We gleaned invaluable insights into the depths of our fortitude, cultivating a renewed appreciation for the importance of pacing oneself during such venturesome pursuits.

Regardless of the hardships encountered on our arduous journey, we remained unwavering in our recognition of the intrinsic rewards that hiking bestows upon us – the immersive communion with nature, the persistent testing of our own limitations, and the profound revelry in the scenic vistas that render each strenuous stride worthwhile. Every ache and weary sigh was effortlessly washed away by the sheer beauty of our surroundings, thereby rendering our day at F.D. Roosevelt State Park an indelible and unforgettable experience.

With a profound sense of accomplishment, I can assert that we emerged triumphant in conquering the trail, despite its grueling nature and the unforeseen challenges that lay in our path. Undoubtedly, we absorbed valuable lessons along the way: to respect the trail, to adopt a mindful pace, and to never underestimate the enduring allure of a cherished passion like hiking – for it possesses a remarkable propensity to astonish us when we least expect it!

Future Plans-Inca Trail

With our sights firmly set on the illustrious Inca Trail, we find ourselves eagerly preparing to embark on an awe-inspiring expedition that will culminate in witnessing the sun’s resplendent rise over the grandeur of Machu Picchu. Each weekend hike we undertake brings us one step closer to realizing our grand vision of the ultimate hiking adventure!

Some of our other training hikes, you can find at Alabama Hiking, Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking, and Cloudland Canyon Hiking.

-S&E