Big Laurel Falls

The falls isn't tall, but it's pretty, and spills into a neat little pool. It's in two sections - the upper is a short free fall with the lower section, which is taller, is a cascade.

Driving Directions

From Franklin, NC, take US 64 west toward Hayesville/Murphy for 11.8 miles, up and over Winding Stair Gap. Turn left onto West Old Murphy Road, SR 1448. (There are signs for Standing Indian Campground). Go 1.9 miles to FR 67 and turn right. Go 7.0 miles, past the Standing Indian campground, to the parking pullout on the right in a left-hand curve.

Trail Description

The Timber Ridge and Big Laurel trails start at this parking area, and they should be signed. The trail descends to Mooney Creek through switchbacks and crosses on a neat footbridge. The Timber Ridge trail goes left; turn right to stay on the Big Laurel trail. The trail winds to the left around Scream Ridge, curving south, with a moderately rough surface and moderate climbs. It's about 1/2 mile to the pool at the bottom of the falls for a 1 mile hike round-trip.