(1.6 miles, moderate) Take a woodland hike to discover a beautiful waterfall setting at Crab Orchard Falls. It’s located along NC 194 in Valle Crucis, a scenic 10-mile drive from Beech Mountain. While you are hiking uphill most of the way to the waterfall, the climb is gradually – gaining about 375 feet in elevation.
This hike is located by the Church of the Holy Cross (146 Skiles Way, Banner Elk). As you turn into the parking area, look for the sign for waterfall parking. The trail begins at the end of the parking area. After walking in front of Johnson Hall, you will reach the loop trail. Go right for a gentler climb that takes you through a lush rhododendron and hardwood forest. In just over a half mile, you will intersect with the other trail. Merge right to continue uphill to a bench, the location of the side trail down to the waterfall.
At the end of the side trail, you’ll see the bottom section of the 40-foot cascading falls with a spot for a foot soak and wading. Note: No jumping from rocks into the water! For a better views, head upstream or downstream a little by scrambling over some boulders to find several nice perches above the cascading water. Be careful of slippery rocks when wet. Picnics are allowed, and dogs are welcome on a leash.
As you return to the main trail, bear left downhill to return to your car. Then, continue straight on the trail instead of turning left on the incoming loop you already hiked. This is a shorter route back to your car. To extend your hike, take a sharp right at the top of the connector trail from the waterfall to continue uphill for another mile.
Admission is free and parking is open 7 days a week unless there is a major event there at the adjoining conference center. Nearby is the Mast General Store.
Trail Highlights
- Distance: 1.6 miles (loop)
- Width: 3 feet
- Elevation Gain: 375 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Dirt trail, rocks and roots along the way
- Dogs: Yes, on leash.
- Time: Approximately an hour
- Trailhead: 10+ parking spaces, porta potty
- AllTrails Guide
Go to our Hiking Guide for more trails! Pick up a free Beech Mountain Hiking Map at the Visitor Center or Recreation Center.
Beech Mountain is designated an Outdoor NC Trail Town, championing stewardship, accessible outdoors and responsible recreation to sustain our trails for future generations. Join the movement to preserve North Carolina’s Outdoor Spaces by following the Leave No Trace guidelines.
Favorites Count: 0