Name: Beech Creek Trail to Big Scaly Mountain
Rating: 4.0

“A little-used but fun wilderness run in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness area.”

— John Pennell

GPX File

Features Commonly Backpacked · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildlife

Overview

A nice loop run with a side trip up Big Scaly Mountain for some impressive views of the area.

Description

From the parking area on the side of the road, go south and look out for the trailhead. Sometimes it's marked, and sometimes not. It heads due east, climbing over a steep ridgeline before descending to Beech Creek. From there it follows along the creek for a few miles. Look out for side trails to a couple of different waterfalls.

From the start, it's a pretty good climb, constantly gaining elevation until you reach Case Knife Gap. From there, across from an established camping area, you can leave the main Beech Creek Trail and ascend Big Scaly Mountain for some spectacular views of the area. The sunsets from the top are unparalleled,

The descent on the other side is shorter and steeper, mostly following an old logging road. Once you reach the end of the trail at Tate City Road (gravel), it's about a mile and a half or so back to your starting point.