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Hike to Jacks River Falls (via Beech Bottom Trail)

Copperhill, Tennessee

Details

Distance

9 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Danny Giraldo

This is arguably the quickest (and driest) way to Jacks River Falls, clocking in at just over 9 miles.  Though it skips the wetter parts of the Jacks River Trail's adventure, this route still leads to one of North Georgia's top backpacking destinations.

This hike begins at the Beech Bottom Trailhead (off Big Frog Rd, accessible by way of Hwy 411 and a few other roads) and quickly rolls elevation, diving deep into the Cohutta Wilderness.  After a series of switchbacks, the trail crosses the Georgia border and winds its way across a pair of creeks before climbing to its highest elevation at just about 2.25 miles where the falls roar faintly in the valley below.  The path makes its way downhill to Beech Creek (3.3 miles in) and traverses the pebbled waters, leading into a lush and grassy forest.  The trail turns westward (3.9 miles), and follows the Jacks River until crossing through a lower section of Beech Creek.  At 4.35 miles, the hike scrambles over a sharply angled rock outcrop before reaching the upper cascades of Jacks River Falls.  Departing the Falls, the hike retraces its steps on the Jacks River Trail and Beech Bottom Trail reaching the BB Trailhead at just over 9 miles, completing the hike.

Group sizes and camping are limited due to Jacks River Falls' popularity.  Follow posted signs and take precaution when exploring or swimming near the Falls, as they're extremely dangerous.

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Features

Rock Climbing
Chillin
Camping
Fishing
Backpacking
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Cliff Jumping
Swimming Hole

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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