About Mouse Creek Falls Trail (Big Creek)
Mouse Creek Falls is the payoff at the end of the open part of the Big Creek Trail. The hike is about 2 miles each way (4 miles round trip) with roughly 530 feet of climbing, and the NPS closures page currently lists Mouse Creek Falls as the stopping point: the trail is closed beyond it because of Hurricane Helene damage.
The hike
The walk follows the Big Creek Trail on an old railroad grade, passing Midnight Hole at about 1.5 miles. The falls spread over broad rock and meet the main creek, a good spot for a snack and photos. Rocks are slick; keep to dry stone and watch children near the water.
This is a different destination from the Big Creek Trail page, which covers the wider area and what lies beyond the closure.
When to go
Spring brings the strongest flow, and summer is shaded and cool. Fall color is a big draw, and winter hikes can be icy near the falls.
Getting there
Take I-40 exit 451 to Waterville Road and follow it to the Big Creek picnic area and trailhead in North Carolina. The park charges for parking rather than entry: a parking tag is $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year, required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes. America the Beautiful and other federal passes are not accepted.
Know before you go
Bring water and a rain layer. Pets are not allowed.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Big Creek Trail: an easy walk to Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek Falls
- Mount Sterling Trail: a steep climb to a fire tower
- Little Cataloochee Trail: a quiet walk through old settlement sites
Planning and safety
Allow about two miles per hour on rolling mountain trail, then add time for photos, snacks and rest. Start by mid-morning at the latest so you finish with daylight, and decide on a turnaround time before you leave the car.
Weather in the Smokies changes fast, and it is noticeably cooler as you climb. Bring a rain layer even on a sunny morning, wear shoes with good traction, and carry more water than you expect to need. Black bears live throughout the park, so stay at least 50 yards away, never feed wildlife and store food properly. The park's hiking safety guidance is worth a read before any trip.
Good to know
- How long is Mouse Creek Falls Trail (Big Creek)?
- Mouse Creek Falls Trail (Big Creek) is 2 miles one way (4.0 miles round trip), with about 530 feet of climbing. It is rated moderate.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
