Backpacking: Rough Ridge to Jacks River (w/ optional hike to Jacks Falls)

Total hiking mileage for this overnighter is 17.4 and that includes the trip to Jacks Falls.

This trip will require a car shuttle, but our adventure begins at Three Forks trailhead. We'll be hiking in on E. Cowpen (.4 miles) to the Rough Ridge Trail. Rough Ridge trail is a 7 mile trail rated moderate to strenuous due to the elevation change and terrain. The trail loses 2140 ft. elevation from start to finish. It descends into a hardwood cove and then those last 4 miles becomes steep and sometimes rocky as it continues to descend to Rough Creek. Hiking poles/stick are required because of the steep descend and narrowing trail over that last 4 miles of trail. It's hard on the knees, so be prepared. Ok, so once we reach the end of the Rough Ridge ridge trail, we'll set up camp, relax and enjoy everyone's company. I highly recommend venturing to Jacks Falls, which most of us will. The extra hike from camp is totally optional, but we'll have one river crossing along the 1.2 miles downstream (north) from camp. Believe me, it's well worth this short hike along the river and offers a great swimming hole for those wanting to cool off. We'll also have a good spot to cool off and swim near camp too.

Our adventure doesn't stop on Saturday because Sunday we'll pack up and head upstream (south) on the Jacks River trail, where we'll cross Jacks river 19 times. Hiking poles/stick are required for the crossings. The last 2.3 miles after the last river crossing is through a beautiful hardwood forest where our hike ends at Dally Gap. From here, we'll shuttle back to Three forks trailhead for the other vehicles.

Please note that this is not a beginner trip. We'll keep a pretty good pace so we can get to camp, set up and enjoy the extra hike to the falls and have time to swim and relax before dark.