I haven't done a lot of the Hiking League Meetup's Sunday hikes this year, but when I saw that my friend posted one for Cochran Mill, it seemed like a great chance to reconnect with friends and revisit one of my favorite areas in the region. Cochran Mill was actually one of the first hikes I did with this group when I moved to Atlanta just over five years ago. With all of the water features It was a nice change from all of the desert hiking I had done over the previous two-or-so decades. It quickly became a favorite and I haven't returned in a couple of years. I'll fix that today.
I arrived at the parking area a few minutes before the scheduled start and began rounding up hikers. We used the kiosk to pay the $5 parking fee and soon thereafter, the organizer arrived with a carload of friends. We embraced and spend the next little bit catching up on our respective adventures. Always great to see these folks.
With the standard round of introductions, we hit the trails. First we crossed the road and the foot bridge over Bear Creek to give everyone a chance to take pictures of Cochran Mill Falls and the remains of the mill that once stood here. Now, all that's left are a couple of portions of stone walls. It's actually a very picturesque spot.
Once everyone got their shots, we dropped down to walk north beside the creek, stopping periodically to take in the marvelous scenery. All the while, I was chatting with friends, both new and old, about various adventures from our respective pasts. Time seemed to slow down as we meandered through the autumn woods, though we were moving at a good pace. The leaves have nearly all fallen off the trees by this time of year and we're offered great views of the creek and surrounding hillsides.
Stopping by another small waterfall that in the past we have actually jumped across, we take a short break for lunch. I enjoy some jerky and cashews, while others eat whatever they brought with them. Quickly, we're moving again and end up doubling back on a section as the organizer changes his mind slightly on the route he wants to take. No matter.
Soon, we're back near the cars and while some hikers choose to road walk back to the parking area, I and several others make a second pass by Cochran Mill Falls before returning. All in all, we hiked about 8.3 miles and it was pretty glorious. After the hike, many of us met up at a nearby Mexican restaurant and enjoyed some dinner and/or drinks. It's always great to reconnect with these good folks.
