Flat Creek Falls
| Hike Number: |
Area Location: Nantahala National Forest
Trailhead Location: end of Rock Creek Rd 1140
Trailend Location: same
Hike Type: In and Out
Hiking Distance (miles): 7
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Range (feet): 2700 / 3500
Total Elevation Gain (feet) : 1300
Total Elevation Descent (feet) : 1300
Route Map: 0653_map.pdf (will appear in a new tab or window) (Last update: Unknown)
Route Profile: 0653_profile.pdf (will appear in a new tab or window) (Last update: Unknown)
Download GPX track: 0653_track.gpx (Last update: Unknown)
Google Map: 0653_track.gpx (only shows first track in file (sorry))
Trail Description: We hike for about 3 miles on some trail and mostly old and new forest service roads. Then a mild bushwhack down to an old unmaintained trail/road some blowdowns, dog hobble and stream crossings but not difficult if the water is low. The last 300 feet is scrabbling over boulders at the base of the falls. At last we see the 200 foot Flat Creek Falls. There is a beautiful upper 80-foot curtain that drops into a pool (not visible) and then a 120-foot cascade to our lunch spot. One of the Best!!!!
Topos: Big Ridge
Other Maps: Panthertown trails map
Challenges: WC100
Special Features: Waterfalls
Special Flower Season: April
DriveHead: Westgate Shopping Center
2nd Meeting Place: Bi-Lo, Pisgah Forest
Driving Distance(Miles-RT): 0
Driving Directions: I-26 E to Exit 40; right on NC 280 S. Continue straight on US 64 W; R onto NC 281 N; L onto SR 1140 (RockBridge Rd); R at the Y-junction onto FR 4662; Go to the end and park by the campsite.
Notes: There are four wet-foot stream crossings in each direction. The first at the beginning of the hike can be waded or crossed on an uneven two-log bridge that does not have a handrail. The remaining crossings are near the waterfall, crossing and re-crossing Flat Creek on rocky slippery surfaces in fast-moving water. It is impossible to avoid getting wet.
The hike is nearly all on Forest Service property. Due to the large number of intersecting roads/trails, it is important to go with someone who knows the hike route.
Edit History: BB 4-16-13
Hike History: W1202
Click on the date below for details of a previous, scheduled hike. ( (c) means the hike was canceled.)Date |
Hike Type | Hike Name | Hike Leader |
| Apr 18, 2012 | Wednesday | Flat Creek Falls | Sawako Jager |