Blue Ridge Parkway – Cascades Trail

The Cascades Trail is a popular short hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Purlear, North Carolina (Milepost 271.9 at E.B. Jeffress Park). This well-kept, one-mile loop takes you to a beautiful waterfall on Falls Creek. The wide gravel and stone path starts with a gentle descent through a forest filled with rhododendron, hemlock, and hardwood trees. It then follows the creek, winding through switchbacks and wooden boardwalks, with the sound of rushing water and small cascades along the way.

At the end, a viewing platform and a short path lead to the main 35 to 40-foot Cascades falls, where water slides over a broad rock face. The falls are especially impressive after it rains. The trail is suitable for families and leashed dogs, with about 300 feet of elevation change, so it is moderately easy. Benches at the overlook and signs about the area’s 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps history add extra interest.

On weekends and during peak fall color, the main parking lot fills up quickly, so try to arrive early. If it’s full, you can park at Tomkins Knob and take a short hike to the Cascades trailhead. That’s what we did.