Big Creek Cave Falls

The "Big Creek Cave Trail" is a common trail utilizing abandoned logging roads in the Ozark National Forest. Use McElroy Gap Rd (Co Rd 59) to access the parking area. This road is bumpy/muddy and may be difficult for low clearance vehicles. The parking area is a simple pull-off from the side of the road with room for a maximum of three vehicles. Note the large metal gate at the entrance and the root cellar along the right side of the trail. Follow the doubletrack trail downwards for about half a mile until you come upon a fallen in barn on the right side of the trail. There are four notable ankle to knee deep creek crossings past these fields. Use extreme caution if high water is present. As you follow the old logging road, you'll come upon the foundation of an old homestead and five decaying vehicles from the 1930-1950's era. Continue down the valley of Big Creek to find Rock Peninsula Falls. Several large boulders jut out into the creek, creating many picture-worthy rushing falls here. Head back to the trail to find a creek crossing with tree limbs marked with blue tape blazes. You'll hear rushing water here as you scramble up the hill to find Big Creek Cave Falls. A large waterfall will be rushing out of the side of the mountain and disappearing underground. The best pictures are from the north (right) side of the falls, which is unobstructed by trees and undergrowth. Return from the same trail for a good half-day out and back.