I'm wanting to hike to Elk Meadows on trail#645 starting at the Polallie Trailhead but I don't want to go up Bluegrass Ridge. I'm wondering if anyone has experience with #645 as it follows the Cold Springs Creek. I'm taking someone who is relatively new to backpacking (hence, not using the Bluegrass Ridge Trail).
We are planning on leaving early next week - hoping the lightening keeps it's distance!