Crab Orchard Falls Trail At Valle Crucis Conference Center Is One Of North Carolina’s Most Beautiful Hidden Hikes

Crab Orchard Falls Trail in North Carolina starts at one of my favorite places in the whole wide world: the Valle Crucis Conference Center in Banner Elk. I have visited this historic and interesting place several times and even spent the night (which I strongly recommend). But I never realized the property is home to one of the prettiest waterfall hikes in North Carolina. This is the first waterfall I have encountered so close to which I owe a debt for the mighty and powerful feelings it stirs inside. They will surely overcome you too.

If you've never been to this part of the world, the grand Valle Crucis Conference Center campus is worth the winding drive overlooking a peaceful and pastoral setting.

The historic Episcopal mission church complex and national historic district are pictured from NC Highway 194—my favorite view. To access the trailhead, drive to the conference center entrance, which is actually behind the building on Skiles Way.

You'll pass the charming Holy Cross Episcopal Church, built circa 1924, with a bright red door. If you have some time, come back and explore this enchanting structure and cemetery. Signs will lead you to the waterfall parking area at the trailhead. It is only half a mile from the beginning to the falls, but you can go farther if you like.

One of the more scenic hiking trails in North Carolina is uphill the entire way, and the rain made the journey very slippery and muddy, but worthwhile knowing I was going to see a magical waterfall.

The muddy trail wound this way and that, sometimes making very sharp turns.

And there is no shortage of trees in this dense forest full of singing birds and other wildlife. I always make sure to look down and see the shimmering pockets beneath my feet.

The abstract art is free here, as are the fresh, sweet smells of new growth. Near the waterfall, I found this convenient bench but was too excited to reach my destination to sit down for a break.

Turn right here—a sign does not tell you where to go, but I asked some folks making their way up from the falls.

From the top of the hill, the rushing sounds urged me down, but I was pretty frightened because I wore my sandals and a dress, and the rain turned the hill into a slick slide covered with rocks, boulders, and big tree limbs.

But others were at the bottom—I knew if they could do it, so could I. Plus, I wanted to catch a video and some close-up photos of one of the prettiest waterfalls in North Carolina.

Even so, the photos are nothing like standing at the bottom of this natural wonder, with all its energy rushing down as it spattered and frolicked over the jagged surface past me and onward to more interesting destinations.

Nothing prepared me for this impactful presence and the reality of my small size on the planet. If I had the nerve, I would have climbed up to the top to get a view from there. Maybe I will try that another day, when I'm a few years older.

For those seeking a little inspiration, I urge you to hike the Crab Orchard Falls Trail in North Carolina. While you're there, discover more about the enchanted Valle Crucis Conference Center and campus.