Crabtree Falls: A Rewarding Waterfall Hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway, NC

We visited Crabtree Falls on August 15, 2022, and it quickly became one of our favorite waterfall hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The beautiful 60-foot waterfall tumbles down a rugged mountainside, creating a spectacular scene that is well worth the effort to reach.

The trail is generally listed as a 2.6-mile loop, but our hike measured closer to 3.5 miles. We chose to hike the loop in a counterclockwise direction, which provided a gradual introduction to the terrain before reaching the falls.

The trail is rated moderate and features approximately 577 feet of elevation gain. Along the route, hikers will encounter plenty of exposed tree roots, uneven terrain, and some uphill sections that require a bit of effort. Fortunately, the trail is well-maintained and offers plenty of scenic distractions along the way.

One of the things we enjoyed most about this hike was the variety of features packed into a relatively short distance. The wooded trail winds through a lush forest and includes stone staircases, charming bridges, creek crossings, and even a scenic overlook. The sounds of rushing water accompany much of the hike, adding to the peaceful atmosphere.

The highlight, of course, is Crabtree Falls itself. A wooden bridge near the waterfall provides an excellent vantage point to admire the cascading water and take photographs. Standing there, surrounded by moss-covered rocks and dense forest, it’s easy to understand why this is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in North Carolina.

Our hike was pleasant and relaxing until dark clouds rolled in and rain began to fall. What had been a leisurely walk quickly turned into a brisk hike back to the trailhead as we hurried to beat the downpour. Even with the unexpected weather, the experience was memorable and thoroughly enjoyable.

Whether you’re a waterfall enthusiast, photographer, or simply looking for a scenic hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls is an excellent choice. The beautiful waterfall, forest scenery, and varied trail features make it a destination I would highly recommend.

If You Go

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 339, North Carolina
Trail: Crabtree Falls Loop Trail
Distance: Approximately 2.6 miles round trip (some GPS devices may record longer)
Elevation Gain: About 577 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights:
- 60-foot waterfall
- Wooden viewing bridge
- Forest scenery
- Stone steps
- Creek crossings
- Scenic overlook
Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall
Allow: 1.5–3 hours
What to Bring: Hiking shoes, water, camera, and a rain jacket
Don’t Miss: The waterfall view from the bridge and the scenic sections of the loop trail