Second Falls Trail

Why hike this

If you want big payoff for little effort, this is it. Second Falls—signed as “Lower Falls”—drops about 60 feet into a boulder-lined pool, and the trail is just 0.6 miles round trip from the Graveyard Fields parking area on the Blue Ridge Parkway (Milepost 418.8). It’s an easy outing overall, but there are stairs and a short climb back that will get the heart rate up. Expect crowds most of the year.

The route and what to expect

From the lot by the restrooms, descend steps onto an asphalt path that winds down through rhododendron. Cross a wooden bridge over Yellowstone Prong, then stay right at the signed junction for Lower/Second Falls (left goes to Upper Falls). A final stair section leads to an observation deck and creekside access. Figure roughly 100–150 feet of elevation loss/gain total—easy on the way down, a bit huffy on the return.

Scenery, seasons, and swimming

Yellowstone Prong is your companion early, with broad bedrock exposed around the bridge in drier spells. In June, rhododendron bloom; in August, the famous wild blueberries ripen—personal picking is allowed (up to 1 gallon per person per day) and draws a crowd. The base of Second Falls is a classic summer cool-off spot; the rocks are slick, so treat it like a waterfall, not a water park.

Crowds and best time to go

This is one of the Parkway’s most popular short waterfall walks, so parking fills quickly on summer and fall weekends and during blueberry season. Go early morning for easier parking, softer light, and fewer people. Summer is best for swimming and berries; fall brings great color; winter is quietest—but sections of the Parkway often close for ice/snow, which can block access.

Tips and safety

Wear sturdy shoes for the stairs and wet rock. Stay on the signed trail—social paths braid the area and accelerate erosion. Don’t venture onto slick bedrock near the bridge or the top of the falls, especially in high water; the drop is close by. There are vault toilets at the trailhead. Pets must be leashed. No permits or fees are required for a day visit.

Want more

If you have extra time, continue from the junction toward Upper Falls or link into the broader Graveyard Fields network, including Graveyard Ridge and the Art Loeb Trail, for meadow views and a longer, less crowded wander.