to do

This was a difficult climb. We agree it should be rated as hard. We clocked 6.9 miles and did not deviate from the trail. The views at the top of Brasstown Bald were absolutely worthy the huffing and puffing on the way up!

5.4 miles total. From Spur Parking to Bear Creek and back

Father than what is on website. It was a total of 5.56 from the TH to the falls. I am an older hiker and would say this is a moderate+ hike.

This is not a 5+ mile hike, only a little over 2 miles one way. Beautiful trail following a creek much of the way with a few downed trees to get around but very doable. The trail up to the falls from the Chattooga river was cleared of vegetation not difficult except for one creek crossing as so many websites claim. Hardest part is the steady climb on the way back. Would love to know the name of the smaller falls seen through the trees to the left of the trailhead about a mile into the hike.

Tough walk back to the car but survivable. Pretty beach and waterfall.

Fun trail, lots to see! Thin paths though and lots of ups and downs. Definitely strenuous.

The trail was maintained well. I went counterclockwise and hit the falls and wolf den first. The first half was definitely more populated because of the sights. It was along the creek and was kind of like a jungle. Very cool experience. The second half was very empty. Less scenic as well but it was a nice trek. The only downfall to this trail is that you have to cross a busy road two different times. Many people bring their dogs as well so be prepared if you are going to bring a dog. Not many bugs at all.

10/10 would hike again

Awesome but difficult

Hike in is basically off road trail. Several horse riders had been using it. As you get closer to the main fall it becomes much more challenging. The last part is basically a scramble, a lot of dead fall and slippery. We went about 3/4 of the way up. You can still get a good view of the falls.

wild, low or no maintenance. steep at the falls, very challenging!

Was a great hike could have been a little better marked though

Did this hike the day after New Years. Winter hiking has a lot of benefits: fewer people on the trails, better views, fewer if any concerns about bugs and bees, and can pack lighter (less water needed). Trail was in good shape. Winter brings more rain, so there were some sections that were wetter than others, but overall, it was well maintained. Those who choose to drive up to the visitors center and only hike the half mile paved section are missing out on the best part of the hike. We did the trail up and down with our 7 and 10 year old children., so it is kid friendly at that age. Took us a little over 2.5 hours round trip. Actual distance was closer to 6.5 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain (most of that on the way up). So if you are hiking in the winter, start early enough to make it to the top, enjoy the views, and then make it back before dark. The trail is also far enough off the 180 spur that you feel pretty secluded on the climb up and down. Only section that is busy is the paved section from the parking lot to the top (half mile...maybe). The top is very exposed and can be quite windy and cold. So, I recommend wearing or packing layers to adjust to any change in weather or temperatures. Poles are a plus too. They will help with any possible trips/slips as well as reduce the load and effort on the climb up. Parking is right at 180 and 180 spur. It’s not a large parking area, but with so few people choosing the climb up from Jack’s Knob, we had no issue finding a spot. Lastly, take a lunch or light snack and spend some time at the top enjoying the views.

The trail was beautiful. It starts out boring but it gets prettier and prettier and when you’re down towards the bottom almost all the trees have a carpet of moss on them. There’s some trees down and a few creek crossings, but it’s nothin I couldn’t go over, under, or around. Go left at the beach like everyone else said. I went early on a Tuesday morning and I didn’t see a soul for most of my hike. It was lovely.

you're going to feel like you're going to the wrong place but you're not. may need 4x4 to get back there. Remember to stay left, you'll go down and through another creek that is not deep parking area is on the left. Park there and then cross the creek and follow the old road up. IF you happen to go right and end up at the cemetery simply park there and walk through the cemetery( which is very interesting) and down the hill( through wood, for a very short time) and it will lead you to the road you need to be on. The last part of the hike is not for the faint of hearts but is so so worth it.

Really great day for a hike. Lots of snow and not too many people.

Very icy near the top before reaching the parking lot

Great hike. I started off a different trail so got in around 10 miles. Love the river crossings.

Bear Creek Loop + Pinhoti '0' out n back to Mountaintown Creek Trail. great day in the woods. there's some huge trees down on the right side of Bear Creek, but you can get through there. I saw some mountain bikers go through with bikes. the Pinhoti zero out and back to Mountaintown had probably 20 trees down, but you can go over or around all of those. I cleared a lot of debris off of the most popular section of Bear Creek and the pinhoti zero section. solid hike.

Based on the reviews and rating for this trail, I thought it would be amazing! It was way too much boring road walking and had way too many mountain bikers on the trail for my liking! Would have been fine to hike to the tree and back out!!!! The first part of the trail is pretty. Why is All-Trails’ mileage always high??!! This trail was 6.4 and it shows I hiked 7.8!!!

1st experience trail running with a group. First off is was chilly that later became a beautiful day out in nature. We did counter clockwise. After the steepest part it was speed at your own pace. There were a few trees down over the trail but other than that it was pretty clear. 01.24.2021