Bad Branch Falls Out and Back

Map of Bad Branch Falls Out and Back Hike, Bad Branch State Nature Preserve

Elevation Profile of Bad Branch Falls Out and Back Hike

Overview. I would normally skip this hike in the dry season, but with some nice recent rains, Bad Branch Falls was fantastic with Fall colors all around. This is a beautiful waterfall and gorgeous creekside walk leading up to it.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 2.1 miles
Overall Difficulty | Moderate
Map of Bad Branch State Nature Preserve

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 37.067583, -82.771922
Turn to Bad Branch Falls | 37.077900, -82.772086
Bad Branch Falls | 37.078986, -82.770500

Trailhead. About 16 parking spaces are available on the gravel and grass parking lot at the trailhead. [map]

Trail navigation. From the trailhead, begin moving slightly uphill passing some information posts and reaching Bad Branch. Crossover and continue on the trail until reaching the turn to the falls at mile 0.9. From there, follow the trail and take the steps to reach Bad Branch Falls. Be sure to stay on trail at all times while in the State Nature Preserve to protect fragile habitats located nearby.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads can be found in the region. Stay alert on the trail, as snakes are commonly found taking in the warmth of the trail. Give them a wide berth or wait for them to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. Black bears can be found throughout the Pine Mountain region. Be sure to follow bear aware practices. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]

Bad Branch Falls Trailhead

Fall colors lining the trail to Bad Branch Falls

The turn to Bad Branch Falls

Fall views from the base of Bad Branch Falls

Bad Branch Falls on the southeast face of Pine Mountain in Letcher County