Hike: Bad Creek Trailhead to Upper Whitewater Falls

Overview:

• Distance: 3.8 miles (out and back)
• Elevation Gain: 826 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Estimated Hiking Time: 2-3 hours (including breaks)
• Trail Surface: Natural surface, well-maintained, with some rocky sections and steps.
• Date: May 10th

Description:

This hike takes you to the impressive Upper Whitewater Falls, one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The trail starts at the Bad Creek Trailhead and follows a generally moderate path through a beautiful forested area. The trail features some elevation changes and leads to a series of viewing platforms offering spectacular perspectives of the falls.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: The trail is rated as moderate. Be prepared for some uphill sections and uneven terrain.
• Footwear & Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are recommended. Hiking poles can be helpful, but are not required.
• Waterfalls: The area is known for its amazing views.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go. Conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.

What to Bring:

• Water (plenty)
• Snacks
• Camera
• Layered clothing (weather can be unpredictable)
• Rain gear (optional, but recommended)

Access Information:

• Fees: $3.00 cash fee to be placed in the Fee Station on the honor system. Correct change is needed.
• Restrooms: None are available.
• GPS Address: Bad Creek Trailhead.

Meeting Time and Location:

• Meet at the Bad Creek Trailhead at 8:45 AM.
• Hike Start Time: 9:00 AM sharp.

Carpooling:

• If you’re interested in carpooling, please email me, Ryan Jobs, after registering, and I will connect interested participants.

Contact:

• Ryan Jobs: [email protected]

Hike: Bridal Overlook via Mine Mountain, Laurel Ridge, and Corn Mill Shoals

Overview:

• Distance: 4.3 miles (loop)

• Elevation Gain: ~538 feet

• Difficulty: Moderate, with rolling elevation changes and a few short steep sections

• Estimated Hiking Time: 2.5–3.5 hours (including breaks and time at the overlook)

• Trail Surface: Mostly natural surface, including packed dirt, loose gravel, rocky areas, roots, and potential muddy sections depending on recent rain

Description:

This scenic loop in DuPont State Recreational Forest offers a lesser-traveled route to Bridal Veil Falls Overlook—a quiet spot with views of the surrounding Blue Ridge landscape. We’ll begin on Mine Mountain Trail, connect to Laurel Ridge Trail, and then loop back via Corn Mill Shoals Trail. Along the way, we’ll pass through a mix of hardwood forest, open ridgelines, and babbling creeks.

While not as rugged as some of our previous hikes, this route has a few moderately strenuous sections and rewards hikers with peaceful scenery and light foot traffic. We’ll take a break at the overlook before completing the loop.

Important Considerations:

• Trail Difficulty: This hike is moderate overall, but does require some uphill hiking and a basic level of fitness. Beginners comfortable with 4+ miles of hiking are welcome.

• Navigation: The trail is well-marked, but intersects with several other trails. A GPS map or AllTrails app is helpful.

• Footwear & Gear: Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners are recommended. Hiking poles are optional but helpful on uneven terrain.

What to Bring:

• Water (at least 1–1.5 liters)

• Electrolytes (e.g., Gatorade, Liquid IV)

• Light snack or lunch for the overlook

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• Optional: Hiking poles, camera, small towel if exploring any creeks

Park Information:

• Access: Free admission. No park pass required.

• Restrooms: Portable toilets may be available at the trailhead (check before going).

• GPS Address: Google Maps Link – 3051 Reasonover Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718

• Parking: Fawn Lake Access Area– fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early.

Carpooling:

Interested in carpooling? Please email Ryan Jobs ([email protected]) after registering, and we’ll coordinate rides for those who request it.

Meeting Time & Location:

Meet at the Fawn Lake Access Area at 8:45 AM. The hike will begin promptly at 9:00 AM.