Hiking Crabtree Falls NC is one of most popular trails along the world famous Blue Ridge Parkway. And at 70 feet, it is the tallest waterfall along the entire parkway. Located near Little Switzerland, North Carolina, the Crabtree Falls Trail is a 2.6 mile loop featuring just over 500ft of gain. And is accessible year around.
Starting at the top of a canyon the trail will lead hikers down to the falls. The views leading down makes for some great photos. And this is a great trail for when the fall colors start changing the trees. Just remember as you descend, that every step you take down is one more you will have to come back up. The return trip will have a bit of a climb. With a trail featuring lots of roots and slick rock, hiking poles would be a good idea.
Overall this hike would probably qualify as moderate. Features plenty of shade along the trail. And there are plenty of spots to fill up on water if you bring your water filter. Which I always recommend. The trail can get busy during holiday weekends. So if you’re looking for solitude make sure you take that into account.
Below are some quick tips, videos,and photos from Crabtree Falls NC.
Hiking Crabtree Falls NC – Tips, Video & Trail Info
Crabtree Falls Trail Info
Distance: 2.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 577ft
Type: Loop
Alltrails Link: Click Here
Trail Tips
- Doing the trail counter clockwise will have the hardest part of the trail as a climb at the end. Going clockwise will have the hardest part of the trail at the beginning as a descent.
- There are sections of trail on rock that can get very slick when wet.
- The falls are not deep enough to swim in. But many people do stand or wade (when the water level is high) in the falls.
- There is camping available at the Crabtree Falls Campground. You can find out more about the campgrounds and reservations by clicking here.
- There are bathrooms located at the Crabtree Falls Campgrounds.
- You can check for seasonal road closures at National Park Service website by clicking here.
- During hunting season make sure you are wearing bright colors to be safe.
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