(1 mile, moderate) The Falls Trail begins on the Buckeye Lake Loop Trail at Buckeye Recreation Center with plenty of parking. The one-mile loop descends by the creek to the 25-foot waterfall, Buckeye Creek Falls. A bridge over the creek in front of the waterfalls offers a great spot to take photos and soak in the beauty – about halfway through the loop hike. As you ascend back to Buckeye Lake Loop Trail, enjoy the cascading creek sounds and views. Observe cool geology, vibrant plants, and wildlife along the way.
NOTE: Two bridges below the waterfall were destroyed by flooding in September 2024. Each side of the loop trail is open from Buckeye Lake Loop to reach the waterfall until the bridges are rebuilt.
Trail Highlights
- Distance: 1 mile (loop)
- Elevation Change: 250 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Terrain: Dirt trail, rocks and roots along the way
- Dogs: Yes, on leash. No swimming
- Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes
- Trailhead: 20 parking spaces, restrooms, water fountains
- Special features: Playground, picnic tables, recreation center (indoors, heat/AC), lake, pier
- Accessibility: Accessible restrooms
- Buckeye Recreation Center at 1330 Pine Ridge Rd, Beech Mountain, NC 28604. Open year-round, seven days.
At the end of the Falls Trail at Buckeye Lake Loop Trail, take a left to return to the parking lot or take a right to continue the hike around the lake. When you combine both trails, it’s a total of 2.6 miles and one of the most scenic trails in the High Country.
Go to our Hiking Guide for more trails! Pick up a free Beech Mountain Hiking Map at the Visitor Center or Recreation Center.
This trail is provided and managed by Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation. 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.
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