Crabtree Falls Waterfall Hiking Adventure

Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with a hike to Crabtree Falls, where the serene sounds of a 60-foot waterfall and colorful wildflowers await.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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No entrance fee
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Explore the majestic Crabtree Falls on a scenic hike, featuring a stunning 60-foot waterfall surrounded by vibrant wildflowers. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty with a hike to Crabtree Falls, where the serene sounds of a 60-foot waterfall and colorful wildflowers await. Begin your journey at Mileposts 339.5 to 340.2 along the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway, where the Crabtree Falls hike offers a captivating experience. Choose between a direct 1.8-mile round trip or a more extensive 2.5 to 3-mile loop to reach the breathtaking 60-foot waterfall. Along the way, be enchanted by a diverse array of spring wildflowers, including the striking pink crabtree blossoms. The area is equipped with a campground, providing tent and RV sites for those wishing to extend their adventure, as well as a picnic area and restrooms, available seasonally.

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For parents and grownups

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Itinerary

Start at the trailhead at Mileposts 339.5 to 340.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Choose your trail: a 1.8-mile round trip for a direct route or a 2.5 to 3-mile loop for a more exploratory hike.
Follow the marked trails to the 60-foot waterfall, enjoying the wildflower scenery along the way.
Spend time at the falls for photos and relaxation.
Return via the same path or complete the loop if on the longer trail.

Location

39000 Blue Rdg Pkwy, Marion, NC 28752

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Packing List

Comfortable hiking shoes
Water bottle
Sunscreen
Camera to capture the scenic views
Snacks for the hike
A light raincoat, depending on the weather

4.9 ● Google reviews

Crabtree Falls is wonderful and one of the more dramatic falls in this area with about a 150 foot drop. The trail to get there is not long, but can be challenging with many roots, rocks a steep decline and three steep sets of stone stairs which have sturdy railings. I have done this hike about a dozen times always as a loop. It's about a half a mile longer, but easier coming back up and out. Going in bear to the right and take the shorter way down to the base of the falls.

If I can do it you can too. This hike is listed at moderate/strenuous. I was a little nervous but went for it with my dog. It's a rugged path. Plenty wide and well marked you can't get lost. I'm fat and my dog is chunky and it was definitely some exercise but well worth it. Great views. Lots of steps. We went right (counterclockwise) but it's the same either way. You need to go down to the falls and then back up. Take your time. Enjoy the hike.

Great hike from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The hike in is moderate 0.8 mile but the hike out isc1.25 miles at at least a 400 ft incline. This is not a good hike for handicapped people or people with small children.

BEAUTIFUL falls! We went the short way down with lots of rocks and switchbacks. We took the long way back which was much more flat once we got above the falls. It’s achievable but not easy for sure. Poles would be great but not necessary. Well worth the effort!

Beautiful hike down to a gorgeous waterfall. Well worth it to 69 yr old with bad knees! A lot of the path is rocky so was careful, but made it no problem with hiking poles. Went with my daughter and 3 and 6 yr old grandsons, though she did end up carrying the 3 yr old a bit.

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