Skinny Dip Falls

Hike the difficult 16.9-mile Big East Fork and Art Loeb Loop, gaining 3415 feet with waterfalls and panoramic mountain views.

Embark on the Big East Fork and Art Loeb Loop, a difficult 23.7 miles (38.2 km) hiking route that takes you through the heart of Pisgah National Forest. You will experience diverse landscapes, from the lush river valleys of the East Fork of the Pigeon River, where you might find clear pools and dense rhododendron thickets, to the exposed Appalachian Balds. The trail climbs 3901 feet (1189 metres) over an estimated 12 hours and 26 minutes, offering panoramic views from high points like Black Balsam Knob. This challenging loop promises a true wilderness experience.

Careful preparation is essential for tackling this demanding route. Navigation can be tricky in the Shining Rock Wilderness, so make sure you bring reliable maps or a digital navigation device to stay on track. Water sources are scarce along the Art Loeb section, so plan to carry enough water for your entire journey or be prepared to filter. If you intend to camp along the way, remember that bear canisters are required in the Shining Rock Wilderness.

This loop uniquely combines sections of the renowned Art Loeb Trail with the Big East Fork Trail, creating a comprehensive journey through varied ecosystems. Along the Big East Fork Trail, you will follow the rushing East Fork of the Pigeon River, encountering rapids and dense vegetation. The Art Loeb Trail section, in contrast, leads you to awe-inspiring panoramic views from high points such as Tennent Mountain, where you can see for miles across the landscape.

Embark on a moderate hike to Second Falls, a picturesque 55-foot cascade where the Yellowstone Prong river flows over angled rock. This 2.7-mile (4.4 km) route takes you through lush forested trails, offering a beautiful journey within a mile-high valley. You will gain 919 feet (280 metres) in elevation, with an estimated duration of 1 hour and 44 minutes. The impressive 6,000-foot peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, especially when the vibrant fall foliage transforms the area.

To plan your visit, head to the Graveyard Fields area, where you will find the trailhead for Second Falls. Parking is conveniently located at Milepost 418.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Restrooms are also available in this area. Keep in mind that the path to the falls is downhill, so prepare for an uphill climb on your return journey to the parking area.

This trail is nestled within Pisgah National Forest, a region known for its diverse ecosystems. The setting within a mile-high valley, surrounded by 6,000-foot peaks, makes it a notable destination for its dramatic scenery. The area is particularly popular in autumn, when the leaves create a spectacular display of colors, enhancing the natural beauty of the cascade and its surroundings.