Near Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)
This is the Big Springs Gap Trail as it crosses Otter Creek. The crossing is about 15m wide and necessary to gain access to Otter Creek Trail.
Near Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)
One of the many waterfalls to behold on Otter Creek. If you look closely, there is even the more numerous rhododendron in bloom.
Near Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)
Feeling the natural sway of the bridge in a summer breeze and contemplating whether the rocks below or planks above are more slick.
Near Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)
A brief visit from a beautiful local red admiral during a brief break.
Near Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)
"Just how many picturesque waterfalls can we see on this hike?" said the Dad to his son.

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Hike Trail

Otter Creek Trail (TR 131)

4.9 (7 Ratings)
This is a lush, deciduous 11.8-mile trail of waterfalls and wildlife with a constant companion, i.e. Otter Creek.
11.2
mi
Distance
533
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Commonly BackpackedFall ColorsFishingRiver/CreekSwimmingViewsWaterfallWildflowers
Access Issues
This is a wilderness area, so federal rules apply: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mnf/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=12369&actid=50.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
11.15mi
Distance
533ft
Elevation Gain
1,731ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
3,050ft
High Point
1,771ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
For approximately the northern half, i.e. from Dry Fork Trailhead to the junction with Possession Camp Trail (TR 158) and Moores Run Trail (TR 138), Otter Creek Trail is relatively level with numerous crossings of small streams and several side creeks. The trail is not marked, but sufficiently worn as to be obvious. The leaf cover is near 100% in the summer. There are two required crossings of Otter Creek which is up to 0.6 meters deep and 12 meters wide. Prepare to get wet, although it might be possible to stay dry crossing at low seasons with waterproof boots using the larger rocks. The vegetation is so lush you'll be in contact almost the entire time. There is a lot of dead fall so prepare to have to climb over or crawl under many trees. The rhododendron are abundant and gorgeous when in bloom. There are many nice camping areas that are level and sheltered by Norway spruce with a few of note: 1) just east of the junction with Big Springs Gap Trail, 2) north and south of Moore's Run, and 3) near the junction with Possession Camp Trail (TR 158). There are numerous beautiful waterfalls and a few swimming holes in Otter Creek. There is a cable suspension bridge over the Dry Fork of the Cheat River about 0.25 miles from the Dry Fork Trailhead, which provides a great view of the valley and Otter Creek. If you are in the area and have 20 minutes, this spot is worthy of your time.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Michael Zianni