While the main waterfall attraction at South Mountain State Park has been High Shoals Falls, Big Bear Falls now has a well-developed trail.
The trail starts the same as the route to High Shoals Falls. Enter the state park, drive to the very end, and park in the Jacob Fork parking lot. From there, you can start on one of two trails which later combine into one. The Hemlock Nature Trail ambles next to Jacob Fork River with lookout points and information signs along the route. The Headquarters (H.Q.) Trail starts on the main gravel path which sits higher. I recommend the Hemlock Trail for the sights.
When the two trails join, the path crosses a small bridge over Shinny Creek. At this bridge, the Big Bear Trail begins. A trail sign here indicates the direction for each waterfall. Instead of crossing the bridge over the creek, veer slightly right and follow the creek for 0.2 miles.
It is a rather steep and narrow trail, blazed with orange rectangles, with multiple cascades in view. The path climbs and then descends toward the creek.
There is also a large, round boulder in the creek. There was only one other group on the trail when I visited. While they were distracted with the boulder, I made my way to the waterfall.
Big Bear Falls runs through the cracks of several rock slabs and boulders. The water flows down an upper drop, wraps around a long slab, and then drops again into the creek.
Having the area all to myself, I enjoyed watching the waterfall perched on a large rock in front of the falls.
If you are careful, you can make your way to the base of the upper drop. The rocks here are very slippery with water.
Other Things to See and Do in South Mountain State Park
After you have been delighted by Big Bear Falls, I recommend you backtrack to Shinny Creek and continue on the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail. South Mountain State Park offers hiking and equestrian trails, campsites, picnic areas, and trout fishing.
We love all the rock against the waterfalls. Thanks for sharing.
It really is beautiful isn’t it? I love how every waterfall is so unique in its size and landscape.