Big Creek Trail
Hike alongside a pristine creek, discover hidden waterfalls, and swim in the cool waters of Midnight Hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Big Creek Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike alongside a pristine creek, discover hidden waterfalls, and swim in the cool waters of Midnight Hole.
"Midnight Hole is back on the summer list! Perfect place to cool off. 
Check Trail Status First
Always verify which sections of Big Creek Trail are open before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Pack for Swimming
Bring water shoes if you plan to take a dip in spots like Midnight Hole! :woman_swimming:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Midnight Hole
Big Creek Trail
A stunning swimming spot beneath a small waterfall, perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
Big Creek Cascade
Deep Creek Trail (part of Big Creek system)
A beautiful waterfall offering a scenic reward along this popular hiking route.
Big Creek Gulf
Savage Gulf State Park
Explore a vast wilderness area with trails leading into a dramatic gulf and along its rim.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Status & Access
Best Footwear & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Status First
Always verify which sections of Big Creek Trail are open before your visit.
Pack for Swimming
Bring water shoes if you plan to take a dip in spots like Midnight Hole!
Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be uneven, so good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Plan for Multi-Day Hikes
Consider overnight trips for a deeper exploration of the trails and campsites. :tent:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status First
Always verify which sections of Big Creek Trail are open before your visit.
Pack for Swimming
Bring water shoes if you plan to take a dip in spots like Midnight Hole!
Sturdy Hiking Boots
The terrain can be uneven, so good footwear is a must for a comfortable hike. :athletic_shoe:
Plan for Multi-Day Hikes
Consider overnight trips for a deeper exploration of the trails and campsites. :tent:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Big Creek Trail for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the refreshing swimming opportunities at Midnight Hole and the picturesque waterfalls. The trail offers a great escape into nature, with options for both day hikers and backpackers. Some sections can be challenging, and checking trail status is advised.
"We love it..."
Carlos Hernandez
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michael davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Creek Trail is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is typically from the Big Creek entrance off I-40. For Savage Gulf State Park, access is via various trailheads depending on the loop you plan to hike.
Yes, there is parking available at the Big Creek horse trailer parking lot, which is a common starting point for many hikes.
While Big Creek Trail is primarily associated with GSMNP, similar creek-based trails exist in other state parks like Sam A. Baker State Park in Missouri.
Savage Gulf State Park is best accessed by car, with multiple trailheads leading into the park. The Big Creek Rim Trail is one of the popular access points.
Shuttle services are generally not available for Big Creek Trail within GSMNP. It's recommended to drive to the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking tag for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes. Day-use and annual passes are available.
Savage Gulf State Park, like most Tennessee State Parks, does not have an entrance fee for day use.
Big Creek Trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific facilities or roads within GSMNP may have seasonal closures.
Yes, campsites along Big Creek Trail, such as campsite 35, can be reserved in advance, especially for multi-day hikes.
The initial 1.4 miles to Midnight Hole is considered moderate, but the full Big Creek Trail can be challenging, especially for multi-day backpacking trips.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Midnight Hole is a highly recommended swimming spot, known for its clear water and refreshing pool beneath a small waterfall.
Yes, the trail features beautiful cascades and waterfalls, including the one near Midnight Hole and others along the Deep Creek Trail system.
You might encounter various wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Always maintain a safe distance.
Absolutely! Big Creek Trail is a popular choice for backpacking, with designated campsites available for overnight stays.
The Big Creek Rim Trail in Savage Gulf State Park offers varied terrain, including rim views and descents into the gulf. It's considered a more strenuous hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning waterfalls, lush forest scenery, and the crystal-clear waters of the creek. Midnight Hole and its cascade are particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos, especially around the waterfalls.
Drone usage is restricted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check the park's official website for current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest and waterfalls, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with long exposures of water.
Yes, the campsites offer a rustic charm and can make for interesting photographic subjects, especially for those documenting a backpacking trip.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relatively short distance and the reward of a beautiful swimming spot make it an engaging outing. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely around the water. For families seeking a more adventurous experience, consider exploring shorter loops or sections of trails in areas like Savage Gulf State Park, but always assess the difficulty and length against your children's capabilities.
Packing plenty of snacks and water is essential for any family hike.🎒 Backpackers
Be prepared for backcountry conditions: carry a map, compass, and necessary survival gear. Pack out everything you pack in to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Big Creek Trail: What to Expect
The trail itself winds alongside the vibrant Big Creek, offering scenic views of the surrounding forest and the babbling water. While this initial section is moderately challenging, the full Big Creek Trail can extend for longer distances, making it suitable for day hikes and more ambitious backpacking trips. For those planning an extended adventure, the trail system connects to other routes, including the Appalachian Trail, and offers designated campsites. Planning a multi-day hike requires careful preparation, including securing campsite reservations in advance.
Beyond the GSMNP, the name 'Big Creek' also refers to significant natural areas in other locations, such as the Big Creek Gulf in Savage Gulf State Park, Tennessee. This area boasts a more rugged wilderness experience with trails like the Big Creek Rim and Stone Door Loop, offering a different, yet equally stunning, natural landscape for exploration.
Swimming and Waterfalls at Big Creek
This idyllic location provides a perfect respite for hikers looking to escape the heat and enjoy the pristine mountain waters. The clarity and coolness of the water are frequently mentioned by visitors, making it a highlight of the hike. Beyond Midnight Hole, the Big Creek system is dotted with other beautiful cascades and smaller waterfalls. The Big Creek Cascade on the Deep Creek Trail, for instance, is another picturesque stop that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
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