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| Quillian Creek |
Difficulty Rating: Moderate (only due to the lack of trail and bushwacking)
POI: Many waterfalls, fossil’s, canyons, remnants of moonshine steel
Distance: 5 miles
Other: Multiple creek crossings
We started at the bend in the road at Riddle Creek drainage. There is/are some nice parking spots along this area to pull off of and park.
The “trail” is an unofficial trail and starts off with some bushwacking down the valley toward the bottom. You will have to bushwack about ½ mile, but it isn’t that bad. Once you have reached the creek at the bottom, it opens up and is beautifully surrounded by trees and hills. Also very close to this area is the “hands up tree” that is where Mr. Riddle got busted for bootlegging. You can still see remains of the steel in this area as well.
About two miles into it, you encounter Riddle Falls. It is a gorgeous falls, and when you come upon it, you are actually on top of it.
Once you ascend down into the canyon (very carefully as there is no official trail) you come to the intersection of Riddle Creek and Quillian Creek. Turn north – northwest and head up Quillian Creek. You will encounter multiple feeder creeks. Be sure to take time to explore these, as most of them offer spectacular views and usually more waterfalls.
Eventually you will encounter Arnold Motor Speedway, which is an old road bed, and it is an easy hike out from there. Head up the old roadway about ½ mile climb and 300 feet of elevation and along the ridgeline and you will hit the road you drove in on.This hike could be done as a longer day hike. However, there are multiple campsites along Quillian Creek. This is a great, relaxing, and fun hike.
