Crabtree Falls is one of the best-kept secrets on the Blue Ridge Parkway. While millions of visitors drive past Milepost 339 each year, only a small fraction descend the loop trail to this 70-foot free-fall waterfall on Crabtree Creek. Those who do are rewarded with one of the most pristine waterfall settings in the North Carolina highlands.

Trail Overview

The Crabtree Falls Loop begins at the Crabtree Meadows Campground near Parkway Milepost 339. The path descends from the campground through open meadows (carpeted in wildflowers in May and June) into a hardwood cove, following Crabtree Creek downstream through rhododendron tunnels. The falls appear dramatically at a bend in the trail. The return leg climbs back via a different path — steep in the upper section but manageable.

The Waterfall

Crabtree Falls drops straight and clean off a jutting sandstone ledge, the entire flow channeling through a single notch before launching 70 feet into a circular plunge pool ringed with boulders. The surrounding forest walls funnel the sound into an echo chamber — on a high-water day, the roar is extraordinary. A footbridge at the base provides front-row viewing.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wildflowers: The meadow section near the campground is exceptional for spring wildflowers — trillium, bloodroot, and wild geranium
  • Elevation: The trailhead is at 3,680 feet — weather can change rapidly; pack layers
  • Camping: Crabtree Meadows Campground is one of the most popular Parkway campgrounds — reserve early
  • Timing: Spring and early summer for wildflowers and full water flow

Getting There

Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 339.5, near the Crabtree Meadows Campground entrance. GPS: 35.823°N, 82.146°W.