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Beech Creek Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

North Carolina

Clay County

Beech Creek Trail

Moderate

3.0

(15)

hikers

Beech Creek Trail

Q: Is the Beech Creek Trail suitable for beginners?

No, the Beech Creek Trail is considered challenging. It's rated as "difficult" by some sources and features "black diamond" difficulty for its singletrack sections, involving significant and constant elevation gain. It's best suited for experienced hikers.

Q: What natural features and viewpoints can I expect along the trail?

The trail boasts gorgeous waterfalls and impressive views. You'll follow Beech Creek for several miles, where you might find side trails leading to various waterfalls. Notable highlights include Bull Cove Falls and High Falls . The route also meanders through a lush forest.

Q: Is the Beech Creek Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The Beech Creek Trail is primarily a loop hike, offering a varied experience. There's also an optional side trip to Big Scaly Mountain.

Q: Is the Beech Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Beech Creek Trail?

While the trail can be hiked year-round, spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Be prepared for potential snow and ice in winter, and lush, possibly overgrown conditions in summer.

Q: Where can I park for the Beech Creek Trail?

Specific parking information for the Beech Creek Trailhead is not detailed in the provided sources. Hikers should research local parking options near the Southern Nantahala Wilderness area before their visit.

Q: Are there any permits or fees required to hike in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness?

The Southern Nantahala Wilderness, where this trail is located, generally does not require permits or charge entrance fees for day hiking. However, it's always advisable to check the official U.S. Forest Service website or local ranger district for the most current regulations, especially for overnight camping.

Q: Is cell service reliable on the Beech Creek Trail?

Cell service is limited along the route, especially in the more remote sections. It is highly recommended to download an offline map of the area before starting your hike for navigation and safety.

Q: Are there opportunities for camping along the Beech Creek Trail?

Yes, there are established camping areas along the route, making it suitable for backpacking. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and check for any specific wilderness area regulations regarding camping.

Q: What are the typical trail conditions like on the Beech Creek Trail?

Hikers should expect significant elevation changes and challenging terrain. Reports indicate numerous fallen trees and branches that may require navigating over, under, or around, particularly past the Beech Gap turnoff. The path climbs over steep ridgelines and follows the creek.

02:45

7.95km

450m

Hiking

Embark on a moderate hike along the Beech Creek Trail, a 4.9-mile (8.0 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will ascend 1480 feet (451 metres) through lush forests, offering a varied and engaging experience. As you follow Beech Creek, you might discover inviting…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Southern Nantahala Wilderness

Nantahala National Forest

Waypoints

Start point

Get Directions

1.44 km

Bull Cove Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

A cascade of 40 ft dropping from Bull Cove Creek, a creek that rises just some meters more up; the creek meets Bech Creek just downstream. This is a pristine water stream, flowing through this nice waterfall.

Tip by

3.95 km

High Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

This waterfall is formed by a small creek that spreads along the bumpy outcrop rock, with small waterfalls going all around it. The trail to there is not easy, as …

Tip by

7.95 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

7.92 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

7.92 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 12 July

26°C

18°C

94 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 5.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Beech Creek Trail suitable for beginners?

No, the Beech Creek Trail is considered challenging. It's rated as "difficult" by some sources and features "black diamond" difficulty for its singletrack sections, involving significant and constant elevation gain. It's best suited for experienced hikers.

What natural features and viewpoints can I expect along the trail?

The trail boasts gorgeous waterfalls and impressive views. You'll follow Beech Creek for several miles, where you might find side trails leading to various waterfalls. Notable highlights include Bull Cove Falls and High Falls. The route also meanders through a lush forest.

Is the Beech Creek Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The Beech Creek Trail is primarily a loop hike, offering a varied experience. There's also an optional side trip to Big Scaly Mountain.

Is the Beech Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times.

What is the best time of year to hike the Beech Creek Trail?

While the trail can be hiked year-round, spring and fall often offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Be prepared for potential snow and ice in winter, and lush, possibly overgrown conditions in summer.

Where can I park for the Beech Creek Trail?

Specific parking information for the Beech Creek Trailhead is not detailed in the provided sources. Hikers should research local parking options near the Southern Nantahala Wilderness area before their visit.

Are there any permits or fees required to hike in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness?

The Southern Nantahala Wilderness, where this trail is located, generally does not require permits or charge entrance fees for day hiking. However, it's always advisable to check the official U.S. Forest Service website or local ranger district for the most current regulations, especially for overnight camping.

Is cell service reliable on the Beech Creek Trail?

Cell service is limited along the route, especially in the more remote sections. It is highly recommended to download an offline map of the area before starting your hike for navigation and safety.

Are there opportunities for camping along the Beech Creek Trail?

Yes, there are established camping areas along the route, making it suitable for backpacking. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and check for any specific wilderness area regulations regarding camping.

What are the typical trail conditions like on the Beech Creek Trail?

Hikers should expect significant elevation changes and challenging terrain. Reports indicate numerous fallen trees and branches that may require navigating over, under, or around, particularly past the Beech Gap turnoff. The path climbs over steep ridgelines and follows the creek.

Are there any hidden gems or optional side trips on this route?

The trail itself is often described as a "hidden gem" for those seeking a challenging wilderness experience. A significant highlight is the optional side trip to Big Scaly Mountain, which offers spectacular views and unparalleled sunsets.