Big Creek Bridge Hike

Happy Summer means Happy Trails! Summer is here and that means hikes with cold water swims. NPCA is hosting a veteran only hike on the Big Creek Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on August 17. We will be passing the famous Midnight Hole (feel free to visit on the return trip!). Please be prepared to hike uphill for 2.5 miles, but it is a gradual trail. Our destination is the bridge over Big Creek, where we will swim and observe the colorful fish of the Smokies, some of which are highly endangered! Please bring your goggles or your snorkels, and wear clothes you don't mind wading in.

Big Creek has amazing aquatic diversity. When we think about fish, we often think of sportfish – bass, crappie, and trout. But the Smokies are a wild aquarium full of fish of all colors and sizes. We want to share this riverine wonderland and let the fish impress you.

Snacks and water will be provided but do bring your lunch and a full water bottle or canteen. We recommend at least 2 L of water. Pack a lunch. We will be hiking 5 miles roundtrip. Wear sturdy shoes (no flip flops, crocks, loafers, or sandals) and appropriate clothing for the weather, especially rain gear. Getting down to the creek may be steep, so good shoes are a must!

We are aware that middle of the week is tough! However, Big Creek is a popular place. We, as your guides, want to provide a thoughtful experience with aquatic wildlife without the weekend crowd.

There will be very limited spots in this event due to parking in this area. There are three parking locations.

1. Chestnut Hill parking area – first parking area you come to, houses about 20 cars. It’s a little walk to the trailhead.
2. Main Trailhead parking area – at the end of the road and is a big loop. There are flush toilets.
3. The horse camp parking area – is the designated overflow area. It is located near the Main Trailhead parking area.

We will meet right outside the facilities building at the Main Trailhead where the bathrooms are. If you need assistance with directions, please reach out!

We cannot stress enough to please release your spot if you cannot go. Doing so opens the spot to another veteran who might really want to attend.

It is difficult to predict the weather so far out! If the weather looks like it will rain or storm, we will cancel the event. Please keep up with notices in case of cancellations. At this point, our rainout plan is to hike Aug 4. Please stand by for updates. No lifeguard will be present. Please be mindful of your surroundings and abilities. The water at the bridge is not violent, but some places may be deep.

In summary:
What: Big Creek Bridge Hike
When: July 27, 2023, 0900
Where: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Big Creek Trailhead Parking Area
With Who: Gessika Guerra, NPCA Southeast Veterans Outreach Intern
Jeff Hunter, NPCA Southern Appalachian Director
What’s Included: Snacks, Water, a beautiful trail, and fish you can only dream of!