Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

Walnut Cove, North Carolina

4.4/5

based on 7 reviews

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Details

Distance

1.6 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Cottonballs Adventures

Explore this 35' Hanging Rock State Park waterfall and if you are visiting during warmer months, enjoy the swimming hole at bottom of falls.

A beautiful hike through the forest of Hanging Rock State Park. Trail meanders through pines and hardwoods filled with boulders, mountain laurel, scenic views, and the occasional deer or turkey. The trail begins as gravel and dirt then turns into steps made of wood and stone. Also on the trail is an overlook and a wooden bridge that sets on the side of the hill. Trail is approximately .8 miles one way. The waterfall is 35' tall and located in a gorge that is surrounded by beautiful stone walls that tower over the falls and pool below. Very beautiful short hike. A must see if visiting the park.

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Features

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Scenic

Waterfall

Wildlife

Swimming Hole

Reviews

Lymaris Marrero

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

11/11/20

It was awesome, beautiful view!! Kids enjoy it!!! Good pics...

5.0

Nohely Maldonado

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

11/01/20

There’s a lot of places to take pictures! Its a nice and fast walk down to the falls. There’s a lot of stairs at the end, so heads up!

5.0

HBCUs Outside

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

11/23/17

A group of buddies and I had this jewel all to ourselves one early evening. Before this, I haven’t had so much fun in a long while.

5.0

Sarah Levant

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

04/09/17

We didn't love these falls but we did happen to catch a wedding at one of them which brought in few extra people. We did this quick hike after hanging rock. Not a must but if you are up for more mileage after hanging rock, go for it!

4.0

Jacob Lee

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

10/05/16

Of the many waterfalls and trails in hanging rock this one is arguably the best place to take a dip and chill. A very easy and short trek with an open space for many spots to choose to relax.

4.0

Joshua West

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

09/29/16

Like others have stated this is an easy-to-access, beautiful spot, so it stands to reason that on weekends and school breaks it gets crowded. Even on crowded days it is a welcome respite from the summer heat, but if you want to take in its beauty then be prepared to share. Or, you can come early, or on weekdays when school is in and people are working. We always plan this as part of a trip to other parts of the park to make the most of the day and have options if it is too crowded. It is a perfect spot to hike in paints and easels to paint the falls, or bring your camera and tripod for some great photography of the falls and pool. There are also plenty of trees to string up your hammock and relax in the serene beauty and sounds of the flowing water.

4.0

Tanara Hansen

Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

09/18/16

The waterfall is extremely beautiful and very easy to get to. It's a small area and gets crowded easily especially with small children and families in the swimming hole. If you're looking to enjoy this wonderful waterfall in a bit more solitude I'd suggest checking this destination off your list early in the morning before the rush.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to Lower Cascade Falls

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hanging Rock Trail

Hike to Hanging Rock

Hike and Rock Climb Moore's Knob

Hike the Sauratown Trail

Rock Climb at Pilot Mountain SP

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