Crabtree Falls Loop Trail

Park at the old Crabtree Falls Camp Store / campground-side trailhead at Milepost 339.5. The signed approach from the parking area leads to the trail, which descends about 0.9 mile through mixed oak-hickory forest to the 60-foot falls. After the falls, continue on the longer, more gradual return route: it climbs by switchbacks, crosses Crabtree Creek and its tributaries, and follows signs along the campground perimeter back to the parking area nps.gov, virtualblueridge.com.

This is a moderately strenuous to strenuous loop with a steep, rocky descent and a sustained climb on the return. Wet rocks near the falls are slippery; stay on established viewpoints and do not climb on the rocks. The forest is also habitat for slate-colored juncos, tufted titmice, black-throated blue warblers, and salamanders virtualblueridge.com.

• Access the recreation area directly from the Blue Ridge Parkway; do not use Crabtree Road. The campground-side trailhead parking address is 39000 Blue Ridge Parkway, Marion, NC 28752, near Milepost 339.5 blueridgeparkway.org.
• Allow about 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the full approximately 3-mile loop nps.gov.
• Dogs are allowed on leash, with a maximum leash length of 6 feet visitnc.com.
• Picnic-area and restroom availability is seasonal. Check permanent Parkway access information before setting out, because road access can affect the trailhead nps.gov, blueridgeparkway.org.