riverrat

While at Garner, be sure to take a day trip to Lost Maples. It is a beautifull 30 -45 minute drive from there and you will not be disappointed. If possible go during the week and the earlier the better. Hike the Maple Trail for sure (hopefully nature will cooperate and foilage will be good) and if you're up to it, about 3 mile (round trip) hike on the West Trail takes you to the "ponds" where if you've a mind to you fish (my son actually caught a fish on a blue gummy worm and some discarded fishing line! Catch and release tho). If adequate rainfall lately, there will be a pretty waterfall to check out, also. If you want to do the whole West Trail, allow a steady 3-4 hours of moderately strenuous hiking (there is one uphill stretch that will just about do you in if you're not ready for it!) We enjoy the East Trail up to the "cliff" (you'll know it when you see it).Allow about the same amount of time for the whole East Trail as for the west Trail but be super careful coming down! That's one mean rocky steep grade. Lots of slippage if your not careful. Enjoy!!