3 Waterfall Hikes You Won't Want To Miss

What better payoff after a hike than the soothing sound of rushing water, followed by the sight of a gorgeous waterfall? Blue Ridge has plenty of fantastic hikes that lead to beautiful falls. Here are three of our favorites: 

 

1. Long Creek Falls

At just under 2 miles, the trail to Long Creek Falls is a moderate hike that ends with a beautiful, fully flowing waterfall—even in the middle of summer! A short side trail off the Appalachian/Benton MaKaye Trail, this trek is generally about half an hour. Don’t be fooled along the way; there is a stream that drops down at one point, and sometimes it makes hikers think they’ve reached the falls. When you reach Long Creek, there should be no question. The overpowering sound of this 50-foot waterfall will leave no room for doubt!

 

2. Falls Branch Falls

Quick and (somewhat) easy, this quarter-mile trail is the perfect family hike. Located along the Benton MacKaye Trail, the trail to Falls Branch Falls includes an observation deck to look out onto the falls and take photos/videos. It is mostly uphill, but totally worth it to see the gorgeous double waterfall!

 

3. Jack River Falls

This one is for those who really love hiking! Probably the hardest of the waterfall hikes to find—and the furthest to hike once you get there—Jacks River Falls more than makes up for those potential challenges with breathtaking falls and crystal clear pools for swimming. There are several ways to get there, the shortest being the 9.2-mile hike from Dally Gap. This journey offers a nice challenge with a great payoff!

 

Curious to learn more? Check out this Waterfalls & Whitewater Guide for more waterfall hikes!