Big Creek Falls

This 18-foot-tall waterfall is found next to the road on Route 19W near Spivey Gap in Yancey County, NC. It's a popular summer swimming hole, with a large, but shallow wading pool at its base. You can see in the photo above that even with our recent rains the water level is way down.

Here is a summary of things to see and do in the Spivey Mountain area of Unicoi County, TN and Yancey County, NC. To get there from I-26: take the Temple Hill exit (#43) south of Erwin. At the main road, turn right onto 19/23. Go 1.1 mile until the road forks. Turn to the left, this is 19W - and reset your odometer! The following destinations are found along Route 19W (Spivey Mountain Road) and listed in terms of their mileage from Route 19/23 in Unicoi County...

3.3 miles - Chandler Cove Road. Turn right here and drive a short distance to see Lower Spivey Falls. This is private property, so you can only view it from the road. (Photo Right)

4.0 miles - Spivey Falls Cabin - gated and private. Cabin overlooks the main Spivey Falls.

7.5 miles - Spivey Gap Picnic Area

7.8 miles - Access to the Appalachian Trail (see yesterday's 'High Rocks' post)

10.7 miles - Big Creek Falls. Watch for a wide concrete bridge on your right leading to a forest service road. You can park here and then walk along the road a short distance east along the highway to the falls. The waterfall is unmarked and in the summer is completely obscured by vegetation. You'll find it by listening!