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Big South Fork National River & Recreation AreaHorseback riders look at scenery along trail.
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Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area
Burnt Mill Loop Trail
ice on river rocks
C. Summers
Flowing and freezing, winter weather creates a beautiful river scene.
 
Trail symbols for hiking trail and John Muir Trail

NPS

Burnt Mill Loop Trail symbols.

Distance: 3.6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Cautions: Rock Stairs
Connections John Muir Trail to Honey Creek



   


The Burnt Mill Loop Trail is a relatively short and extremely beautiful hike which parallels the Clear Fork River for much of its 3.6-mile length.

As you begin your hike, you may be fortunate enough to watch some adventurous paddlers begin their trip down the river, or maybe a fisherman battling wits with a wary smallmouth bass. After passing through a number of rock shelters and along some interesting rock walls, the trail will gradually climb out of the gorge.

Just 1.1 miles after leaving Burnt Mill Bridge the trail will split. Following the right fork will take you on the John Muir Trail for 5-miles to the Honey Creek Loop Trail, while the left fork will cross the Burnt Mill Road and then descend back to the Clear Fork River.

Once you reach the Clear Fork River the trail will follow the river for the next 2.1-miles back to the trailhead parking lot. Along this section of the trail you will find numerous opportunities to picnic and even wade in the shallow river.

If you do venture into the cool waters of the Clear Fork River use caution; the rocks may be slippery and the currents could be strong.

Download a map (pdf 496 kb) of the Burnt Mill Loop Trail and Trail Profile.

Freshwater mussel found in Big South Fork River  

Did You Know?
Twelve of the nations 300 species of fresh water mussels are now extinct. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area currently has 20 documented species, five of which are federally listed as endangered.
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Last Updated: May 08, 2008 at 15:33 EST