The Little-Known Park In North Carolina That Transforms Into An Ice Palace In The Winter

Owned by the State of North Carolina, Green River Game Land contains 14,331 acres and lies along the Blue Ridge Escarpment in Henderson and Polk counties. This beautiful acreage and crystal, clear Green River are utilized by wildlife lovers of all kinds from hunters to swimmers. Also hiking is very popular year-round on approximately 13 miles of developed trails offered here between the Big Hungry section of the game land and Green River Cove. Let's take a look at this wild and wooded wonderland as it transforms into an abstract ice palace in the winter.

Green River Game Land is maintained by N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission.

The staff won't let you get lost with well-placed signage.

We love to visit these trails in the spring as new life is sprouting.

Or a rainbow show is the very best summer-day surprise.

It is equally hard to avoid visiting during the colorful autumn glory.

And while it may be hard to see some of the cool critters that hang out during the warmer seasons, don't discount the breathtaking beauty of the winter months.

1. Rock Hop Loop Trail

Set aside about 45 minutes to make footprints on this 1.9-mile, moderately challenging loop trail near Flat Rock.

These icicles offer a preview of the bigger picture.

2. Lower Big Hungry Falls Trail

This little trail, also near Flat Rock, is barely a mile and offers a big payoff for little effort.

Check out the interesting ice formations set off by the ruins of an old powerhouse building.

Park at the Green River Narrows Put In parking area where you'll find the trailhead.

3. Little Bradley Falls Trail

Just look at the architecture you'll find on this 1.8-mile out-and-back trail near Saluda.

This hike takes you under a canopy of trees featuring a 50-foot waterfall even more splendid under an arctic freeze.

4. Milton Bradley Falls Trail

Also near Saluda, here is a closeup of some frosty formations you'll see on the 4.8-mile out-and-back trail. Did you know that many organisms can survive the ice?

They await the thaw when we will be so happy to see them again.

How about it — are you ready to get out your longjohns to see Green River Game Land turn into an ice palace this winter?  And while you're at it, experience a winter zipline tour at The Gorge in Saluda.