Falling Water Cascades

Located at milepost 83.1 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Fallingwater Cascades Trail is part of the Peaks of Otter Recreational Area.  This National Recreational Trail is a very popular 1.6 mile loop hike featuring a waterfall.  The trail has a steep section, however there is only a total elevation gain of just under 400 feet, making this a moderate hike.  You have two options where to start this loop hike.  Start either at the Fallingwater Cascades Parking Area at milepost 83.1 or the Flat Top Parking Area at milepost 83.5. The trail enters Jefferson National Forest soon after leaving the Fallingwater Cascades parking area.  From the parking area turn right down the well worn trail lined with rhododendron.  These usually bloom in late May, early June, making for beautiful scenery.  Soon the trail gets very steep and there are some steps.  Fallingwater Creek appears as it tumbles down the top of cascades on your left.