Jackie Steffan — 1 mile — 45 mins — Easy — 283′ gain —
We almost always pair this hike up with Sill Branch Falls to extend our hike. Both waterfalls feel very different, making it unique to have two waterfalls so close together. Pine Ridge Falls is 25′ tall, seems to be a little less well known, and appears to be part of a commonly travelled horse trail.
Getting There
From Johnson City area (I-26):
- Take Exit 37 in Erwin
- Turn right onto 81/107 and drive 6.5 miles
- Turn left onto Rt. 107 and continue 5 miles
- Turn left onto Clark’s Creek Rd. and drive 3.1 miles, with the last 2 miles on gravel.
- Typically the gravel road is easily navigable in any car, but as of 2025, there were quite a few sneaky potholes to dodge and a large puddle to drive through.
- You’ll pass by Sill Branch Falls trailhead (trail on left, parking on right). Continue another 0.25 mile on Clark’s Creek Rd to a parking area on left. Look for the trailhead sign for Longarm Branch.
The Hike
Hiking to Pine Ridge Falls is pretty straightforward. As with many waterfalls in the area, it is better to go after a recent rain since it could be a little dry. Follow Longarm Branch Trail for ~0.4 mile, enjoying the walk along Devil Fork and a little bit of Longarm Branch. There is one creek crossing at 0.4 mile, and shortly after that you will find a trail intersection. Bear left to continue to Pine Ridge Falls. Continue 0.1 mile mostly uphill to the end of the trail and the Falls. Once you’re done enjoying the falls, simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead and parking area.
For additional exploration, we recommend tacking on Sill Branch Falls. You can walk to the Sill Branch Falls trailhead without needing to move your car, since it is only about 0.25 mile between the two, or you can move it if you wish.
