Brenda Kay Ledford

Crossing Chunky Gal Mountain,
through Shooting Creek—
hunting ground of the Cherokee,
climbing Winding Stairs Gap
until you crest the hill.

Off the Appalachian Trail,
fern festoons a pine thicket.
Trees once wearing gold
and russet garments, dress
down for the winter.

A good time for viewing
the waterfall, a mighty force
tumbling from the heart
of the Nantahala National Forest.
Water pure as crystal

plunges over the cliff.
Chilled by flash freezing,
icicles dangle from the waterfall,
dazzle like treasured pearls,
and catch a rainbow.