Bear Creek Loop, Split Bow Arch, and Bear Creek OV, Big South Fork

November 14: Bear Creek Overlook is a spectacular overlook in the Big South Fork. It is not directly off the hardtop as most OVs are... so you can expect less frustration with crowds. The Bear Creek loop is a great double-track trail when dry, but not a good visit when equestrians flock there on warmer weekends, unless you like horses. If it is cold, you will have the river and 7-mile loop to yourself. You can find the USGS Bear Creek River Gauge on the loop. On the ridge, you can discover the surprising Split Bow Arch and what I guess to be a former mining headquarters.