Overview
Coker Creek Falls sits in the quiet interior of the southern unit of Cherokee National Forest, well away from the better-known destinations near the national park boundary or the Roan Mountain balds. This makes it one of the most reliably uncrowded waterfall trails in the forest, a genuine local find.
The loop format adds variety to the route; the descent follows the creek and the return climbs through drier ridge forest, giving a tour of two different forest communities.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 1.2: Trailhead to Falls via Creek
Starting the loop in the downhill direction, the trail descends from the trailhead through cove hardwood forest toward Coker Creek. The path crosses the creek at mile 0.7 on stepping stones and follows the water upstream to the falls at mile 1.2. The cascade drops in two tiers over mossy sandstone into a clear pool.
Miles 1.2 to 1.8: Falls to Ridge
A short spur explores the pool area before the loop climbs away from the creek up the opposite slope. The grade is moderate and sustained for about 0.5 mile.
Miles 1.8 to 3.0: Ridge Return to Trailhead
The upper portion of the loop traverses drier ridge forest with oak, pine, and mountain laurel before descending back to the trailhead parking area.
When to Hike
March through May brings the best waterfall flow and spring wildflowers in the cove sections.
June through September the creek and falls are lower but the shaded approach stays pleasant.
October through November offers fall color along the creek corridor.
December through February the trail is walkable with reduced waterfall volume; ice can form on the stepping stones.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 liters of water for this loop. Creek water should be filtered. Waterproof shoes help at the stepping stone crossings, particularly after rain when creek levels are higher.
Trailhead Access
The Coker Creek Falls trailhead is located on FR-22 approximately 3 miles from the Coker Creek community in Polk County. No fee to park or hike (as of 2026). No facilities at the trailhead. Dogs must be leashed. The forest road is unpaved in sections; passenger cars handle it in dry conditions.
Nearby
Bald River Falls Trail is in the same general southern unit area and visits a much larger and more dramatic waterfall. Benton MacKaye Trail: Ocoee Section provides river corridor hiking to the east.
Check road conditions at checking conditions before you go before using FR-22. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout and camp only at properly set-back dispersed sites if staying overnight near the creek.