Waterfall Hero Hikes: Snowbird Backcountry Area

Snowbird Backcountry Area, tucked into the Snowbird Mountains of the Cheoah Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina near Robbinsville, is a rugged, relatively uncrowded expanse of steep ridges, clear mountain streams, and cascading waterfalls that rewards hikers willing to put in the miles. Trails such as Big Snowbird weave past features like the old shot-up car, narrow footbridges, multiple creek fords, and photogenic waterfalls, offering a classic Appalachian mix of lush forest, overgrown ridgelines, and cool water that makes for excellent longer day loops. The area’s remoteness means fewer people and a strong sense of solitude, though sections can grow thick with summer vegetation.

Directions:

The main access to the area is the Junction parking. From Robbinsville, head west on US-143 Bus for about 2.5 miles then continue on US-143 W for another 2.2 miles. Turn left on Snowbird Road and go 2.1 miles to a sharp left to stay on Snowbird Road. In another mile, turn right on Big Snowbird Road and go 6 miles to the end. It changes to gravel after about 2 miles. The upper part of the area can be accessed from the Cherohala Skyway.

Map:

Trails:

Big Snowbird Trail (#64)

Big Snowbird Trail starts from the Junction and follows Snowbird Creek upstream. After about 3 miles, it crosses the creek on a footbridge. After this point, there are numerous fords of the creek as it follows it upstream to the headwaters.

Burntrock Ridge Trail (#65A)

Burntrock Ridge Trail starts from Sassafras Creek Trail above Sassafras Falls. It heads steeply up then follows the ridgeline and descending to Big Snowbird Trail upstream of Middle Falls.

Hooper Bald Trail (#60)

Hooper Bald Trail leads from the parking area at milepost 7.5 in North Carolina to the summit of the grassy bald at 5,429 feet.

Middle Falls Trail (#64A)

Middle Falls Trail starts from Big Snowbird Trail just after the footbridge and provides a high water alternative to Big Snowbird. The trail leads just over a mile to end back at Big Snowbird Trail. Just before the end, Middle Falls Alternate (#46B) leads to Big Snowbird Trail at Middle Falls.

Sassafras Creek Trail (#65)

Sassafras Creek Trail starts from Big Snowbird Trail about 2 miles from the Junction and follows the creek upstream to Sassafras Falls. Burntrock Ridge Trail starts past the top of the waterfall. After this point, the trail is extremely difficult to follow.