Posted in North Carolina Attractions July 02, 2021 by

Take A Short 0.2-Mile Hike To The Swimming Hole At Widow’s Creek Falls In Stone Mountain State Park In North Carolina

Exploring the wilderness in North Carolina is quite simply good for the soul. There’s something so carefree about hiking, whether under a canopy of trees or out in the wide open, that’s both relaxing and motivational. And anytime you can combine a fun little trail with a waterfall – and a swimming hole – well, it’s like having dessert smothered in whipped cream and fresh fruit.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Most people who visit Stone Mountain State Park overlook the hidden waterfall known as Widow's Creek Falls, in lieu of hiking the longer, more popular trails in the park.
AllTrails/Gayle Snyder
But don't leave this North Carolina state park without seeking out this stunning 25-foot waterfall found just 1,000 feet from the road.
AllTrails/john allison
Park your vehicle on Stone Mountain Road (there's a map below showing where to park) and walk a mere two-tenths of a mile over to the falls and the various swimming holes found in the long tail after the plunge pool.
AlLTrails/Bill Watson
Just about anyone can conquer this short trail. It has an elevation gain of only 16 feet. Just think: in under quite literally five minutes, you can walk from your parked car and be standing at the base of Widow's Creek Falls.
Google Maps/Nancy Dittrich
Or better still... stick your toes in the refreshing water!
Listen intently as the soothing sounds of Widow's Creek spilling over the top of the falls calms your soul as it drops into the shallow plunge pool below.
AllTrails/Bill Watson
And unlike so many other waterfall swimming holes, Widow's Creek Falls actually has a series of swimming holes on the long tail after the plunge pool.
AllTrails/Nick Feathers
Bring the kiddos, a picnic lunch, sunscreen, and towels and hunker down here for some fun in the sun (and shade) this summer.
Google Maps/Jessica Hamm
What's more fun than spending a hot summer day in the cool waters of a natural swimming pool? Absolutely nothing.
Google Maps/Michael
This map shows precisely where to find Widow's Creek Falls once you've entered Stone Mountain State Park.
Google Maps
If you're feeling especially adventurous, The Widow's Creek Trail continues on for another mile for a round trip total hike of 2.5 miles! You can learn more about the short, 0.2-mile trail to Widow's Creek Falls from our friends at AllTrails.com.

This isn’t the only way to enjoy Stone Mountain State Park. You can camp, go rock climbing, picnicking, fishing and more. And if you want to see the best of what the park has to offer, the Stone Mountain Loop Trail leads you to still another waterfall, over a granite dome, and past an old homestead! Learn more about the amazing Stone Mountain State Park on the North Carolina State Parks’ website, here. Admission is free. Park hours change with the season, see them at this link.

Address: Stone Mountain State Park, 3042 Frank Pkwy, Roaring Gap, NC 28668, USA