Big Branch Trail

Colored photograph of a hiker next to a cascading brook

This is a strenuous 2-mile loop that demands respect and stable ankles. You'll cross streams, climb moderately to a ridge top, then face a punishing very steep descent back to the trailhead. The payoff: waterfalls, gorge and river views framed by trees, and in early spring a riot of wildflowers—trout lilies, spring beauties, toothwort, and bloodroot. Grit required; casual walkers will feel exposed and overpowered.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 800

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 2
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Elevation Gain Feet: 800
Estimated Time: 2–3 hours for fit hikers; up to 4 hours if you stop for wildflower photos or move cautiously on the descent.
Trail Surface: Rooted dirt, wet in creek sections, loose rock on ridge and descent. Technical underfoot.
Trail Features: Stream crossings
Waterfalls
Ridge-top gorge views
Spring wildflowers (trout lilies, spring beauties, toothwort, bloodroot)
Old farmstead ruins
Brooks Falls scenic outlook
Trail Highlights: Multiple waterfalls on the south/left branch loop. Ridge-top views of the gorge and New River visible through the trees. Spring wildflower carpet—early bloomers including trout lilies and bloodroot—along the creek section. Scenic views of Brooks Falls through the trees on the final descent.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Brooks Falls Overlook parking area. From Hinton, WV: Follow River Road (WV-26) north along the river for 5 miles from the west end of the WV-20 bridge. River Road is single-lane in sections. Parking at Brooks Falls Overlook; cross the road to the trailhead.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle service. Self-transport only via River Road.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: None required.
Fees: No entrance fee.
Trail Status: Open and accessible to the public.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: Stream crossing on the trail. Carry sufficient drinking water; do not rely on untreated stream water. Filter or treat at the creek if you must refill.
Accessibility: Rooty, steep, wet in creek sections. Uneven descent. Not suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids, or those with ankle or knee instability. Stream crossing requires balance.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Very steep descent
Exposed ridge section
Stream crossings at variable water levels
Rooty and rocky terrain
Slippery when wet
Hazard Details: The final descent is very steep with exposed terrain and limited recovery zone if you slip. Stream crossings can be hazardous at high water, especially in spring. Ridge-top section is exposed to wind and sun. Roots and wet rocks create significant slip hazards throughout.
Best Season: Early spring (April–May) for wildflower bloom and optimal water conditions; fall (September–October) for stable weather and dry trail surface.
Best Time To Visit: Early spring (late April–May) for peak wildflower bloom. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid midday sun exposure on ridge. Avoid mud season (winter thaw through early April) when stream crossings become hazardous at high water.
Tips Advice: Trekking poles or hiking staff are essential for the very steep descent to the trailhead.
River Road is single-lane in sections; allow 15 minutes from Hinton and drive cautiously.
Stream crossings require stability and waterproof boots; the creek can be high in spring.
Don't trust the trail from the beginning—the ridge-top section is where the views open up; push to finish.
Wear ankle support or gaiters; rooty terrain and wet rocks create slip hazards throughout.
Start no later than 9 AM to complete the descent with daylight remaining.

More details

Park Area: Sandstone Brooks Area, West Side of New River Gorge
Trail Markers: Labeled as trail (5) on the Sandstone Brooks Area Trails map. Well-established trail; marked.
Biking Allowed: No. Trail type is hiking only.
Shade Level: Mixed. Early sections shaded by forest canopy; ridge-top section is exposed with minimal shade. Bring sun protection for the high point.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911 from the trailhead area. Nearest ranger stations at Canyon Rim Visitor Center or Sandstone Visitor Center (9 AM–5 PM, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's).
Map Recommended: 1
Wildflower Peak: Late April through May (early bloomers: trout lilies, spring beauties, toothwort, bloodroot).
Insider Tips: The south/left branch of the loop offers the best waterfall views and stream crossings.
Old farmstead ruins are 1+ mile into the loop; expect scattered stones, not a structure.
Wildflower bloom is explosive in late April; start early to avoid crowds and photograph before midday glare.
The steep descent looks worse than it is; it's well-established but loose in spots—don't rush.
Spot the ridge-top views: they're visible through the trees on the high point, not a summit clearing.
Family Friendly Notes: The very steep descent and stream crossings demand adult supervision and confident young hikers. Hand-holding and close spotting required on steep sections. Not recommended for small children or hiking beginners. Mature elementary-age children (10+) with solid hiking experience may manage it with supervision.
Nearby Facilities: Hinton, WV (5 miles south via River Road) offers restaurants, shops, and supplies. Brooks Falls Overlook has parking and vault toilets. No on-trail amenities.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently praise the spring wildflower display and gorge views, but many underestimate the steepness of the final descent and the technical terrain. Experienced hikers embrace the physical challenge; beginners often turn back halfway or feel overpowered. Consensus: grit is required, water management is critical, and the payoff is real if you're prepared.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail really strenuous?

Yes. The climb is steady and the descent is very steep. Even fit hikers feel it in the quads on the way down. Beginners often turn back or take 4+ hours. Be honest about your fitness.

Can I do this alone, or is it risky?

Solo hiking is fine on a marked trail. But if you slip on the steep descent, help is 15+ minutes away. Carry a whistle, phone (though service is unknown), and tell someone where you're going. Don't go alone if you're unfit or nervous about exposure.

What should I bring?

Trekking poles (essential for the descent), 2+ liters of water, snacks, first-aid kit, headlamp (in case you're slow), and a map. Waterproof boots are critical for stream crossings. Sunscreen for the ridge top.

When do the wildflowers peak?

Late April through May. Early bloomers (trout lilies, spring beauties, toothwort, bloodroot) carpet the lower creek section. Peak color is around mid-May.

Is the stream crossing dangerous?

It can be in spring when water is high. Wear waterproof boots, test your footing, and take your time. If water is above your knee, don't cross—turn back. Summer and fall crossings are usually safe.

What if I get lost or injured on the trail?

The trail is marked and well-established, so losing the way is unlikely. If injured, call 911 if you have cell service. If not, stay put and use your whistle. Rescue response time depends on where you are on the loop.