March 15th, 2009 - I had some daylight left after hiking to Higgins Creek Falls, so I decided to drive on up 19W to Big Creek Falls, just across the border into North Carolina.  This was my first visit to this waterfall, which I found to be very nice.                       

This waterfall is located only a few feet off of highway 19W so there is no real hike...  just get out of the car and walk a few feet down a steep embankment.  This also seems to be a popular swimming hole in the summer months as I noticed a rope hanging from a ledge, and a small dam constructed in the pool.   

It is actually a very nice waterfall, but due to its proximity to the road, and some surrounding trash and eyesores it only scored 25 points on my scale.  It is still very much worth a visit.           

Total Miles Hiked:  0.01 

Getting There :  

Driving - From Johnson City, take I-26 toward Erwin, and go on past Erwin to exit #43  (Temple Hill).  Turn left at the stop sign at the bottom of the exit (your only option).  At the next stop sign turn right onto 19W (19/23).  After 1.1 mile turn left onto 19W.  Follow this road for approximately 10.7 miles until you see a pull-off and bridge on the right side of the road.  Park here.     

Trails - There is no extended hike to this.  The waterfall is only a few feet from highway 19W.    

Hike Rating -

Bill's Overall Rating:

Distance:  0.01 miles

Difficulty:  VERY EASY

Type: OUT & BACK

Vista Rating: 

Waterfall Rating:  H(2) + F(6) + V(4) + W(2) + G(4+1+6) = 25

Water Crossings:  NONE

Scrambling/Climbing:  MODERATE 

Hazards:  steep slope

Significance:  waterfall

Recommendation:  beginner/sight-seer

Click here for hike rating reference guide.