Spring has finally arrived! The cool weather makes it perfect for hiking. Crabtree Falls We drove for about three hours to a small town called Little Switzerland. The town has a charming European feel, but unfortunately, many of the shops and restaurants were closed for renovations. After another 20-minute drive, we reached the trailhead at Milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t blindly follow Google Maps—it took us on a long detour. There are two trails to the falls: a 3-mile out-and-back route, which is the easier option, and a more challenging 3.5-mile loop that climbs above the waterfall and follows the ridge. We chose the easier route. Well, it wasn’t quite as easy as we expected. It had rained a few days earlier, and the trail was still wet. We carefully avoided muddy sections, and at times it felt more like an obstacle course. But the waterfall was absolutely worth it—truly beautiful. Standing at the base of the falls and listening to the sound of the rushing water, we couldn’t help but feel happy.
Crabtree Falls (NC)
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Crabtree Falls (NC)
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Crabtree Falls (NC) famous?
Crabtree Falls is a popular destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway, known for its scenic cascade through a lush mountain forest and its accessibility to parkway travelers. The falls are part of a beautiful loop trail that showcases the biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Can you swim at Crabtree Falls (NC)?
No — swimming is not permitted at Crabtree Falls due to safety concerns and to protect the fragile ecosystem. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Crabtree Falls (NC)?
Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Crabtree Falls (NC) free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entrance fee or permit required to access Crabtree Falls trail and parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Crabtree Falls (NC)?
There is a parking area at the Crabtree Falls trailhead near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Parking is free but limited in capacity, especially during peak season. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Crabtree Falls (NC)?
About 4.0 km / 2.5 miles return from the parking area on a loop trail that passes the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Crabtree Falls (NC) hike difficulty
Moderate — the trail includes rocky sections, some elevation gain, and can be slippery when wet, requiring good footwear. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Crabtree Falls (NC)?
Spring (March–May) for peak water flow from snowmelt and rainfall, or autumn (October–November) for fall foliage and moderate temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Crabtree Falls (NC)
From the parking area, follow the Crabtree Falls Loop Trail which descends through a rhododendron forest. The trail passes viewing areas of the falls and continues as a loop back to the parking area. The path can be rocky and steep in sections, with wooden steps and handrails in some areas.
Crabtree Falls (NC) official website
Attractions near Crabtree Falls (NC)
- •Blue Ridge Parkway — scenic mountain parkway with numerous overlooks and hiking trails
- •Linville Falls — stunning two-tier waterfall with multiple viewing platforms in Linville Gorge
- •Mount Mitchell State Park — highest peak east of the Mississippi River with observation tower
- •Little Switzerland — charming mountain village with shops, restaurants, and scenic views
- •Graveyard Fields — popular hiking area with waterfalls and blueberry patches along the Parkway
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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Dry Falls
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Walk behind this 75-foot waterfall.
Linville Falls
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Triple-tier falls in the Blue Ridge Parkway.