Located in the Big Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains, Mouse Creek Falls is a gorgeous cascade at the mouth of  Mouse Creek.

Big Creek is located on the North Carolina side of the Smoky Mountains and to reach it you’ll need to Exit I-40 at Waterville Road (#451). Turn left after crossing the Pigeon River and proceed 2.3 miles to an intersection. Continue straight, past the ranger station, to a large parking area at road’s end.

The hike to Mouse Creek Falls is a moderate four-mile roundtrip up the Big Creek Trail which begins near the Big Creek Campground. The trail is a wide road bed and has an Elevation gain over the two-mile hike of 500 feet.

Big Creek is well known for its beautiful stream scenery, some of the best in the Smokies.  As you walk along you’ll come across countless photo opportunities. If you’re a photographer plan on spending several hours here as you search out those classic Smoky Mountain stream shots.

At 1.4 miles the trail goes by Midnight Hole, which features a large, deep pool around 80 feet across that is fed by two small falls around 6′ – 8′ in height.

At around 2 miles you’ll notice a short side trail on the left.  The trail leads to a bench where you can relax and enjoy the sight of Mouse Creek Falls or you can scout the vicinity for the perfect photo angles.

The falls are around 45′ in height. Several small streams come together at the top of the falls and then pass through a narrow opening before spreading out to create a wide cascade at the base. A small pool catches the water and it crosses over what was once an old railroad logging bed. From there it cascades down another 10 feet where it flows into Big Creek.

Mouse Creek Falls is a wonderful destination hike in the Smokies. Big Creek Trail provides beautiful scenery along the way and Mouse Creek Falls itself is one of the prettier falls in the Great Smoky Mountains. Do yourself a favor and plan a visit in the near future!