Place · 0.2 mi away
Overview
A classic creekside waterfall with a natural swimming hole, Glade Creek Falls rewards a short walk with cascades, clear pools, and the steady soundtrack of rushing water. Hiking is required to reach it; this spot is not drive-up.
Getting There
The National Park Service recommends using the lower access at Glade Creek Campground. From Route 41 near Prince, follow Glade Creek Road (gravel) roughly 7 miles to the end at the trailhead. There is also an upper trailhead, but the road to it is steep, narrow, winding, and unpaved—best left to high-clearance 4WD.
The Hike & What You’ll See
Glade Creek Falls sits along the Glade Creek Trail, which follows the creek past riffles, small cascades, and emerald pools. From the campground trailhead, the falls and main swimming hole are roughly a mile in, making this an easy win for a half-day cool-down. If you keep going, the full trail continues upstream toward the upper end of the drainage, with the Kates Falls spur near the top of the route.
Conditions & Safety
Expect wet, slick rock near the water and mud after rain. Water levels can spike quickly; during high water, creek-adjacent sections may be impassable. There’s a known washout at the junction with Kates Falls Trail that can’t be crossed when creeks run high. As with many trailheads, remove valuables from your vehicle.
Fishing & Camping
The lower section of Glade Creek is managed as a catch-and-release trout stream, and the creek corridor offers plenty of casts between pools. Primitive camping is available at the nearby Glade Creek Campground, making it easy to turn this into a swim-and-stay kind of outing.
Amenities
At the lower trailhead you’ll find parking and a vault/composting toilet. There’s no running water—bring what you need.
Best Time to Visit
March through November sees the most use. Come after recent rain for stronger flow, summer for the swim factor, and fall for color. Start earlier in the day for quieter pools and easier parking, and always check stream conditions if you plan to wade or swim.
Pros
- Short, scenic hike from the campground trailhead with constant creek views
- Popular swimming holes and pools at and near the falls
Cons
- Upper trailhead road is steep, narrow, and rough; high-clearance 4WD recommended
- High water can make sections impassable, including a washout near Kates Falls junction
Tips
- Use the Glade Creek Campground trailhead; it’s the route the park recommends.
- Bring your own drinking water; there’s only a vault toilet at the trailhead.
- Wear grippy footwear—rocks near the falls and pools are slick.
- Check stream levels and the Kates Falls junction washout before heading upstream.
- Stow or remove valuables from your car at the trailhead.
