Waterfall Hero Hikes: Lower Dick Creek Falls (Unaka)

Lower Dick Creek Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on its namesake in Unicoi County, Tennessee. The waterfall is located just outside Unaka Mountain Wilderness in Cherokee National Forest.

Hike Length: 4.8 miles
Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Unaka Ranger District of Cherokee National Forest
Trail Users: Hiking only
Dogs: Yes
Features: Waterfalls (1)
Crowds: Low
Warnings: The rocks around waterfalls are slippery. The trail fords Dick Creek, which may require wading in high water.
Trailhead GPS: 36.13837,-82.35015
Waterfall GPS: 36.15200,-82.32689

Directions:

From Erwin, head north on TN-107 and turn left on TN-195 east. Go 3.1 miles and turn left into Rock Creek Recreation Area. There is a pay station on the right to pay the day-use fee. After paying continue up the road to the day-use parking area at the swimming area. If the gate is closed, park without blocking the gate and hike up the road.

Map:

Hike Description:

Rattlesnake Ridge Trail (#26) picks up across the street from the camper registration kiosk and follows Rock Creek upstream. At 0.4 miles, Rock Creek Falls Trail splits to the right; go left. In another 0.1 miles, turn left to stay on Rattlesnake Ridge Trail where the bicycle trail goes right. The trail climbs and reaches Dick Creek Gap at 1.2 miles at a four-way intersection. Rattlesnake Ridge Trail turns right here. Go straight on Dick Creek Trail (#27), which is also FR-307. The road gradually descends and fords Dick Creek at 2.0 miles, which may be a wade in high water. Once across the ford, turn right on an unmarked old road. Follow this road for 0.4 miles to a turn on the right that leads to a campsite where you can hear the waterfall. A path past the campsite leads down to the top of the waterfall.