North Carolina has a wide variety of trails ranging from easy and short to strenuous and long. The following trail likely falls somewhere right in the middle and what it lacks in ease, it makes up for in fun, structural elements. Found along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Little Switzerland, the Crabtree Falls trail is laden with stairs, rocks, rock stairs, and footbridges making the journey as much a part of the adventure as the epic 70-foot waterfall destination. This is one waterfall trail in North Carolina you will not want to miss.

The trail for Crabtree Falls is a nearly a three-mile loop that begins just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Crabtree Falls Recreation area at milepost 339.5.
Justin Taylor/ AllTrails
From our experience, the best way to do this loop trail is to start the hike by going clockwise. The trailhead is a little tricky to find since you have to walk through the campground just to get to it. When we went it was not very well marked but if you go left once you reach the campground look for a sign and then you know you are in the right spot.
The iconic Crabtree Falls is located at nearly the halfway point on the trail and getting there is half the fun.
Sarah Dodge/ OnlyInYourState
If you follow our advice and do the trail clockwise you will get to travel near a stream and enjoy the peaceful flow of water nearly the whole way. You will know that you are close to the waterfall when you get to the steep switchbacks. They were so steep I was thankful I didn't choose to do the loop counter-clockwise.
Bring walking sticks if you have them because this trail can be a bit of a challenge... especially on the way back when the trail is mostly uphill. Luckily there are plenty of stairs to make the trip a bit more interesting but a bit more difficult.
Amani Byler/ AllTrails
A few sets of stone fairy steps make the trek enjoyable, albeit difficult.
Rene Smith/ AllTrails

Related Stories

Hike To This Waterfall Lagoon In North Carolina For A Magical Day Trip

Hike To This Waterfall Lagoon In North Carolina For A Magical Day Trip

 The Secret Waterfall In North Carolina That Most People Don’t Know About

The Secret Waterfall In North Carolina That Most People Don’t Know About

 Take This Easy Trail To An Amazing Hidden Waterfall In North Carolina

Take This Easy Trail To An Amazing Hidden Waterfall In North Carolina
You'll cross a bridge or two along the way and navigate over some stony paths, but for the most part (aside from the stairs) the trail is enjoyable and should take around two hours, depending on how long you want to stay at the waterfall.
Ary Wellborn/ AllTrails
There is a long footbridge at the base of Crabtree Falls that is perfect for gazing up at this huge waterfall in the middle of the forest. There is even a bench if you want to just sit, relax, and soak in the view.
alltrails/Rob Ulmer
Some people wander off the path for a closer look...
Dawn Williams/ AllTrails
Have you discovered this well-traveled trail and waterfall just off the Blue Ridge Parkway yet? After going on this trail we would highly recommend it to anyone who loves to get outside and chase some waterfalls.
Sarah Dodge/ OnlyInYourState
Don't forget that this trail is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway which is a gateway for adventure. There are a plethora of hikes, views, and stunning scenery to enjoy on this iconic road.
Sarah Dodge/ OnlyInYourState

The Crabtree Falls Trail is located at Milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway and also boasts a picnic area and a campground. Bring some food and stay a while! Learn more about this fairy tale hike to Crabtree Falls in North Carolina and make sure you have your AllTrails app handy so you don’t get lost on your hike. If you want to take a closer look at the trail check out our Adventuring in the Moment video from when we hiked to this amazing spot.

Do you love chasing waterfalls? Check out eight more must-do waterfall hikes in North Carolina!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Hiking In North Carolina

Chris Dodge | April 12, 2024

What are some of the best hikes in North Carolina?

Here are some of my favorite hikes in North Carolina that I would recommend to anyone:

 

What are some of the best waterfalls on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Here are some of the best waterfalls on the Blue Ridge Parkway I have found:

Related Articles

Explore North Carolina

Featured Addresses
Crabtree Falls, North Carolina 28777, USA