In what is becoming a local tragedy, a visitor to the Emerald Bay area died in a tragic fall. The 25-year old woman was at the top of Eagle Falls where the creek cascades over the granite face above Emerald Bay, above the Vikingsholm Castle on the shore below. The Mayor was there only a week ago with friends, and we all were very aware of the dangers and witnessed more than a few visitors who took the attitude that they were better than the fast moving, swollen waters of the rushing creek.
Many parks and scenic sites are attractive because they include certain unusual formations such as cliffs, canyons, falls, steep gullys, crashing forces of nature that are picturesque and inviting. Most visitors play loose with the dangers; thinking they know better how to protect themselves. Young people are especially susceptible to such attractions: they have not the history of the site, nor its hazards.
Nearby Angora Lakes, above Fallen Leaf Lake has taken to posting pictures of victims who have died are have sustained serious injuries as a result of jumping or diving from rock formations above the placid waters. The elevation can be as much as 35' above the surface. Yes, a daring soul would challenge the jump, after watching many people who do. But, one slip; one miscalculation, and death awaits.
At the top of Eagle Falls one finds no signage; no fencing; no barriers to stupidity or carelessness. So, beware:
EAGLE FALLS is a dangerous place.
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