Return to Wolf River, Alvin C. York Country. York’s Gristmill, York’s Palace, York’s Double Arch

We returned to Tennessee’s Wolf River Valley where WW1 hero Alvin C. York was born and raised. We were attempting to locate some off trail features, York’s Palace and York’s Double Arch. These rock formations are actually in the far Western reaches of Pogue Creek State Natural Area. They’re accessible by driving up the beautiful Wolf River Valley from Pall Mall, Tennessee. The drive up the wide, flat green valley, surrounded by high rocky topped ridges is alone worth the trip. As we hiked up one of those ridges we were stunned by the variety and numbers of gorgeous wildflowers! York’s Palace and York’s Double Arch are amazing features also! It was truly an exceptional day.

[@kerrywoolbright5716]

Two things will always stand out on this hike, the acres of wild flowers and two magnificent arches. Thanks for inviting us.

[@papawinthewoods]

It was a fine day for us all Kerry. The wildflowers and the arches are all top notch stuff! They sit in one big, beautiful valley too. Thanks old buddy. Take care… We have a lot more to see and do!

[@hasty43]

Thank you Papaw. Another great adventure in Alvin's back yard. Pall Mall is a beautiful place. I just love that valley. Thank you, Until the next time.

[@papawinthewoods]

It’s hard to find a more beautiful, peaceful valley than Wolf River Valley. I still need to go back again, maybe this fall. I can only imagine how it will look when the leaves are colorful! Thank you Sue. Please take care and stay safe and healthy!

[@reneoliver1186]

My Mom was born and raised in that area. She knew Alvin’s son Andrew. They went to school together. Andrew was always saying that my Mom was his girlfriend. So many wonderful memories from Fentress county for me.I long to go back there again. Thank you for sharing.

[@papawinthewoods]

I hope you can visit the area again someday Rene. It’ll always be calling out for you. It’s absolutely gorgeous and so very peaceful in that valley. It’s like time stands still in the remote mountains… Thank you so much! Take care and stay safe.

[@EventyrsorenDenmark]

Lovely place to visit. Nature is so beautiful here ❤

[@papawinthewoods]

The Wolf River Valley is gorgeous from beginning to end and everywhere in between. It’s just so peaceful there. Thank you Eventyrsoren, take care my friend.

[@DianaJewell-jf9ep]

Thank you so much for the tour !! I have watched the movie Sargent York many times..fantastic true story , and who doesn't love Gary Cooper as sargent York !!..❤ Cannot wait to visit the mill , arch and palace !!. You are a blessing !

[@papawinthewoods]

I sure appreciate the nice comment Diana. It’s a beautiful, peaceful place to be. I’m just an old country boy who loves the beauty and history of the area. I’m sure blessed to still be able to hike these hills and valleys and bring some of it out for others to see. Thank you so much! Please take care, stay healthy and be safe!

[@MinuteontheMountain]

What a beautiful area, my friend.

[@papawinthewoods]

Thanks John, there’s a lot of history in the headwaters of Wolf River, from John Muir to Sgt. Alvin York. It’s also one of the most beautiful valleys anywhere. I’ll be going back again! Take care and stay safe.

[@rachelhall4784]

My dad's ashes were spread in the Wolf River by the grist mill. Looking at this video I am certain that my dad had seen all of those places and that my husband and I will go look the next time we are there. Thanks for the great video.

[@papawinthewoods]

It sure is a beautiful, peaceful place Rachel. Hopefully you and your husband get to see everything you want to see. You can’t leave there without a peaceful feeling. Thank you, take care and stay safe.