Big Bear Trap Branch - from near Sunburst Campground on SR 215 to the Parkway

Premier waterfall hike in our area. We will see at least 18 waterfalls. Most of the distance is in the creek with no regular trail nearby, in the Middle Prong Wilderness. You need to have an excellent sense of balance, and be confident to climb rocks in the creek. It is a fun rock-hop with mostly good traction. We try not to do anything dangerous - we bushwack around the larger falls and generally do not use ropes.
We need 2 or 3 cars to meet at the top on the Parkway near Reinhart Gap. Then we shuttle to the main meeting place at FR97 on the NC215 just above the Sunburst Campground, Canton, where we should commence the hike about 9:40. If you come from Brevard, up 215, you might want to leave your car up top as well for the trip home.
We begin on the road and trail along the Middle Prong of the Pigeon for 1.6 miles, then at Laurie's Falls we arrive at Big Beartrap Branch. From there we stay pretty much on the rocks in the creek, until the scramble up to the Parkway at the end.
Bring shoes having rubber soles with traction, or sandals such as Keens if you prefer. Wool blend socks are recommended.
There will be a break for lunch. And great swimming holes for the brave. Our pace is moderate. We want to have time for pictures of all the impressive displays of water, and enjoy this remote wilderness. The distance is 6.4 miles and the ascent is 2,400 feet.