A Hidden Treasure: Upper Creek Falls

Beautiful any time of the year, the Upper Creek Falls area really comes to life during the warmer months. That is when people flock there to enjoy its crystal clear waters and the beautiful scenery the mountains have to offer.

Tucked into the Jonas Ridge area of Burke County, the Upper Creek region is part of Pisgah National Forest. Upper Creek is made up of numerous cascades and pools along with a 100-foot waterfall. The waterfall is comprised two sections; the top is an awesome sheer drop off of nearly 40 feet while the bottom of the falls is made of a steep curving cascade.

Two trails lead visitors from the parking area to the water. To reach the upper section of the waterfalls, take the trail to the left. The .4 of a mile jaunt is fairly easy as long as you remember to use caution because the rocks and steps can be slippery. Once you reach the water, you will be at the very top of the straight down waterfall. There is a nice cascade and a couple of pools of water.

The trail for the lower section of the falls begins to the right of the parking lot. This trail stretches about .9 miles and is a winding step trail. There are various entrances to the creek and many cascades and pools along the bottom of this trail. Regardless of which trail you take, you can rock hop over to the other side and take the trail loop which is about 1.6 miles.

Pools that have formed at the base of these many cascades are the attraction for people seeking respites from hot days in the cool calm waters. After hiking along the trails and taking in the scenery, the pools are a great place to rest. Boulders along the creek make a perfect place to just stop and listen to the sounds of nature.

Upper Creek is a fly-fisherman's dream. Designated as Wild Trout Waters, the creek offers fly-fishermen the challenge of catching wild brown and rainbow trout in their native waters. In this relaxed, yet challenging environment, a fly-fisherman can expect a good catch from a day of fishing along the creek. Trout typically measure 7 to 10 inches. But occasionally, in the calm waters of the many pools along the creek where the trout thrive, the skilled fisherman can haul in a catch of 20 inches or more.

A popular site for day hiking by scouting troops, Upper Creek is perfect for the family, too. The trails are in good shape, but can be slippery. For kids, the area can be fun as well as educational. But the rocks can be slippery and children should stay well back from the edge of the waterfall's 40-foot drop. Hiking, playing in the water, fly-fishing, or just sitting on a rock, Upper Creek offers everyone something to enjoy.

To enjoy these wonderful activities and the breathtaking 100-foot waterfall, take 181 North out of Morganton and go 20.4 miles (starting from the stop light at Kmart). Turn into parking lot will be on your right. From the Blue Ridge Parkway, take 181 South from the Pineola entrance to the Parkway and go 5.8 miles. Just past the Pisgah National Forest sign you will see the entrance on your left.

by Denise Clay