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This run has everything from scenic waterfall views to extreme changes in elevation and a massive cliff wall.


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Map Key

7.8

Miles

12.5

KM

84%

Runnable

3,094' 943 m

High

1,782' 543 m

Low

1,681' 512 m

Up

1,683' 513 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

52%

Max Grade (27°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

This run offers a scenic view of Raven Cliff Falls. There are great places to enjoy water from the mountain river, as well. This loop combines the Raven Cliff Falls Trail #11, the Gum Gap/Foothills Trail, the Naturaland Trust Trail #14, and the Dismal Trail #12 for a great adventure!

Runner Notes

Not a trail meant for running. Very steep in places.

Description

This is a great workout with a tremendous payoff. You start running on Raven Cliff Falls Trail #11 (easy) to Dismal Trail #12. Follow the Dismal Trail to its end, running down over 2,000 feet in elevation. Then take a right onto the Naturaland Trust Trail #14 (strenuous) crossing over Matthews Creek at the bottom then beginning your ascent of over 2,000 feet in elevation.

Along the way, there is a great break spot on a ledge (see photo) and the Cathedral formation (also see photo). This section is very steep. We crossed Matthews Creek above the falls on a suspension bridge then took a right on the Gum Gap/Foothills Trail all the way back to Raven Cliff Falls Trail #11 and eventually the parking lot.

This run is outstanding; you should definitely experience it for yourself. Be prepared, as with either direction this is a hard run with a well-earned payoff.

Flora & Fauna

Rhododendrons, mountain laurels, oaks, maples and poplars, Several species of birds,

Contacts

Shared By:

Gary Roberson with improvements by Glint Gossamer and 1 other

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 31 votes

#377

Overall
  4.5 from 31 votes
5 Star
71%
4 Star
10%
3 Star
16%
2 Star
3%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#377

Overall
37 Views Last Month
12,911 Since Jan 30, 2017
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
3%
3%
90%
3%

Photos

Coming up Naturaland Trust Trail - Headed to the suspension bridge
Nov 7, 2020 near Slater-…, SC
The Cathedral's colossal cliffs are truly a sight to see.
Feb 15, 2017 near Slater-…, SC
Upper section of Raven Cliff Falls.
Dec 25, 2018 near Slater-…, SC
Raven Cliff Falls cascades onto the rocks below.
Feb 15, 2017 near Slater-…, SC
An ice formation provides some wintertime beauty at the bottom of The Cathedral.
Feb 15, 2017 near Slater-…, SC
Looking up river from the suspension bridge crossing above Raven Cliff Falls. This water is what creates the 400 foot falls below.
Dec 1, 2018 near Slater-…, SC
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Weather


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