If you want to feel the original meaning of awesome - expressing awe, a mixture of reverence, wonder and dread - take the Raven Cliff Falls Loop. This hike delivers a distant view of Raven Cliff Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Escarpment and then later, crosses above the waterfall on a wide suspension bridge. In between the two waterfall points, the Cathedral, a huge rock wall towering over 120 feet, will inspire reverence. In addition, you’ll cross Matthews Creek on a pair of cables, which will generate either smiles or fear.

The loop starts opposite the parking lot on the Raven Cliff Falls Trail [#11- red]. You’ll visit both views of Raven Cliff Falls, then after returning from the second view, you’ll descend down the Dismal Trail [#12 - purple]. At the bottom, you’ll turn right onto the Naturaland Trust Trail [#14 - pink] and make the strenuous climb to the suspension bridge. You’ll take a right on the Gum Gap Trail [#13 - blue] and close the loop back on the Raven Cliff Falls Trail.

Length: 8.4 miles
Altitude gain: 1,950 feet

Map: Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area

Getting there: From the center of Brevard [junction of U.S. 276 and U.S. 64], take U.S. 276 south for 14.4 miles to the Raven Cliff Parking area on the left.