Big Tree Short Cut Loop and Needles Eye

Note: Users have reported that this is a challenging route that is not marked well. It's easy to get off course, and there is no cell phone service here, so please download the map ahead of time. Also, tell family and friends where exactly you plan to be and create a contingency plan. Users have reported that this route may cross through private property. This hike takes the shortest route to the Big Tree and then a slightly longer but easier route looping back. Going clockwise, the shortcut turns into Whiteoak Hollow and then crosses over the hill to Bee Branch. This route is called the Outlaw Trail by some. The ascent of the hill follows a creek up a draw, past a small waterfall, past the creeks beginnings, to the crest of the hill. At the crest the trail intersects an old road bed. Turn left on the old road bed and start looking for the trail to turn off to the right. The trail descending follows a draw that becomes a creek. The trail has several nice waterfalls when flowing. There is a technical area where you have to scramble down some ledges and cross a large rock fall. This can be accomplished with packs by experienced hikers. The trail then follows Bee Branch downstream to the mouth of Big Tree Hollow. There are many fallen trees heading up the draw to the Big Tree. There are two waterfalls close to Big Tree. After the Big Tree, the trail backtracks to Bee Branch and then follows the Bee Branch downstream to Thompson Creek. This trail gets you to the tree by the quickest though most strenuous hike while you are fresh, then it takes a longer but easier trail back while you are tired. You can shave a little distance off by cutting through Needles Eye on the way back.