Our dog loved hopping on all the rocks. A tall, imposing cliff towers above the river right side of the falls. The trail ascends 1.2 miles to a scenic view of High Shoals Falls and Hugo Rock. All junctions are signed and the tail is well blazed. It was classified as a strenuous 2.7 mile hike. Went counter clockwise to avoid the stairs. The hike goes up several steep steps to the top of the Falls. The trail to High Shoals Falls is challenging in a few places but not that difficult overall. This home was built in 2006 and last sold on 3/30/2020 for $308,000. 4220 High Shoals Dr , Monroe, NC 28110-7655 is currently not for sale. First off, I WOULD NOT recommend bringing a dog on this trail unless it's a medium to large working breed. Length 1.8 miElevation gain 265 ftRoute type Out & back Date of experience:June 2020 Ask larrymew about South Mountains State Park Chestnut Knob Trail is a steep, wooded trail (climbs 900 ft. in elevation), with views of High Shoals Falls and extraordinary mountain views. This trail then continues to the top of the waterfall before … It's about a mile to the viewing deck for the waterfall, but includes some very steep steps. There have been several deaths here. Northern water snakes bask on rocks and are mistaken for Copperheads. You have two options: hike one mile to the 60-foot waterfall and return (for two miles total). Its neighbor, the Jacob Fork River, becomes a haven for those looking to escape the heat. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Clockwise, you're climbing up steep stairs, counterclockwise you're going up a steepish trail for a while and then going down those same steep stairs. Mileage. With more than 36 High Shoals trails covering 94 miles, you’re bound to find a perfect trail like the Highland Rail Trail or Pacolet Nature Trail. Once you reach the top it’s basically a gradual descend back to the parking area. Continue following the trail until it intersects with Upper Falls Trail. Mile 0.55 – The trail ends at the base of Bird Rock Falls. There are many trails through the state park, and the most popular is the High Shoals Falls … The trail to High Shoals Falls is probably the most popular trail in the park. Continue ascending stairs to the top of the falls. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Instead continue beyond the waterfall following the Upper Falls Trail along a ridge above Jacob Fork River before descending to Shinny Creek. Rate Quality . Not sure if all of this hike is good for small children but 10+ should be fine! Beautiful and massive waterfall hike straight up stairs. Rest on the rocks and soak your feet, or climb the steep stone staircase beside an 80-foot cascade to the top of the falls. Stairs are very steep but there are a few benches and places to catch your breath. High Shoals Falls is an impressive 50-foot drop over a wide cliff that draws a lot of visitors. There are a lot of stairs near the top of the falls, but there are benches if you need a break. It had snowed the day before so some of it was very icy, but with caution very passable. People considerate with passing. And on the way, the hike passes some prime backpacking campsites and visits the equally beautiful (but smaller) Blue Hole Falls, a single … Starts at the Jacob Fork parking area on an old road to the right of the picnic area. T… There is water immediately on the trail and some of the most spectacular rock vistas and cascades to take photos of and upon. I recommend walking along the creekside nature trail on your way out. It’s definitely moderate considering the elevation gain. The hike to High Shoals Falls is one of the most scenic in western North Carolina. One of my favorite places to go for a vigorous hike or relax by the streaming river. There was a solid climb but the trail was very quiet and peaceful. Follow either the Hemlock or HQ trail away from the parking area and upstream. The main waterfall is beautiful and powerful.... Do not miss! The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. A bit longer and more elevation gain than advertised, but a real nice hike. High Shoals Falls Loop Trail is a 3.9 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near Connelly Springs, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Although the waterfall is only 20 feet high, the scene is impressive. 3001 S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612 (1 hour 20 minutes from Charlotte) One of the closest waterfalls to Charlotte, High Shoals Falls, is 80 feet tall and located in South Mountains State Park. Length 2.9 miElevation gain 662 ftRoute type Out & back The park is approximately 10 miles from the intersection of Hwys 27 and 18. Definitely a great hike if you’re trying out new hiking/backpacking gear. I’m a very beginner to hiking, but want somewhat of a challenge. Get here early!! South Mountains State Park - 828-433-4772. They are absolutely gorgeous and the pools they form a beautiful. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Arrived at upper falls and was disappointed (lame) but after descending the steps to the lower falls I was blown away! The park is approximately 20 miles south of I-40. took a side trip to bear falls, it's only. The most popular hiking trail, High Shoals Falls Loop Trail, travels one mile along the Jacob Fork River to the base of High Shoals Falls (see video). High Shoals Waterfall and H.Q. Was a good hike. Some very muddy parts where we inched our way along the railing. I actually preferred the counterclockwise way, even though it is a little longer walk to the actual falls. (You can also take the Hemlock Nature trail which parallels this trail but closer to the river for a short distance). This location is absolutely beautiful. cant wait to come back in the spring and adventure more in the park. This short, but steep, and very popular trail takes hikers about a mile to High Shoals Falls. Dogs are also able to use this trail. It’s a really nice office by the way with clean restrooms. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Unknown See History. Be sure and stay on the marked trail. Turn right on HQ trail and descend to Shinny Creek campsites. Great trail and well marked. My daughter, age 16, and I did it counterclockwise which was the way for us to go I think, it’s almost like the waterfall is your payoff for doing the hike. parts of the trail were very wet, there was snow on the ground, and the stairs were pretty darn icy .. The hike goes up several steep steps to the top of the Falls. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. balance, can scale the frame edge of the steps. A great gem of WNC! Turn right on Upper Falls. Please explain. Either way, the view is absolutely amazing and the trail is exceptionally well maintained. The crowds can get large on weekends, but the weekdays traffic is much lighter. The stairs were pretty icy, I definitely wouldn’t have wanted kids out there. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. It’s much further to the falls but a gradual climb is better than straight up all of those steps. Very little internet. Seems most people come in and head right for the falls but don't hike this loop. Saves the best for last! The waterfall was magnificent, and well worth the effort to get there. Two of Georgia’s most beautiful waterfalls, on one single trail, and on a 2.5-mile hike, round trip: this is one extraordinary adventure. High Shoals Falls. High Shoals Falls A surprisingly high, nearly vertical plunge makes up this waterfall in a part of the state not really known for its falling water. I was somewhat disappointed by the views on the trail; however, the waterfall and state park-managed backpacking campsites were very maintained. Next Generation Hiking Trail Maps. For me counterclockwise is the best way to get there. We went to the right and did the HQ loop first. If you go left you quickly hit water, then waterfalls. The bathroom facilities were immaculate. Past the junctions with Chestnut Knob and Hemlock Nature trail, this trail crosses Shinny Creek on a bridge. The trail begins at the Jacob Fork parking lot which is a mile or so beyond the South Mountain State Park office. there isnt a good spot to get a better picture of the falls, but the platform allows you to safely feel its might. The first half-mile of the trail is the most strenuous section. It’s a good trail! Most elevation is by way of stairs. Definitely not one to miss if you find yourself in this part of NC. The beautiful pool at the base leads down into a huge jumble of boulders with more cascades, which you'll pass on your way up the trail. Many wet steps so walking sticks are highly recommended. View detailed trail descriptions, trail maps, reviews, photos, trail itineraries, directions and more on TrailLink. Here you will have nice views to the South. It's located in South Mountains State Park, south of Morganton (about 70 miles east of Asheville). Not overly crowded. High Shoals Falls Loop Trail is a 2.4 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Connelly Springs, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. High Shoals Falls is a 1.8 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Casar, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. High Shoals Waterfall and H.Q. 1. South Mountains State Park In one of the state’s most rugged areas, South Mountains State Park features elevations to 3,000 feet, an 80-foot waterfall, mountain streams and more than 40 miles of trails for hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers. This is one of the most spectacular hikes I’ve done in NC, which is saying a lot since NC has some incredible variety. High Shoals Falls Loop Trail The trail crosses the Jacob Fork River and reaches the High Shoals Waterfall one mile from the parking lot. would recommend going in the early morning before /family/kids crowd the trail. The High Shoals Falls Trail continues on for another third of a mile alongside the river to a fork in the trail. Approximately one mile from the parking area and after climbing a lot of stairs you will reach the viewing platform for the falls. Loop Trail is a 4.7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Connelly Springs, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. 2,894 High Shoals Falls Loop Sawtooth campsites r p U p e C T r a i l r S hi nny T a i l I V Y C R E E K H. Q. T r a i l Shinny Creek campsites Upper Falls campsites D A R K T C R E E K K A T H Y C R E E K L I T T L E R I V E R Elev. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is accessible year-round. Several people have Surface: natural surface, stairs Coming down that way is better than up. Little icy at top of waterfall but manageable. The trail is rocky with roots, but nothing that can’t be handled. Especially in the fall. The ground was covered in snow which added a beautiful ambiance. High Shoals Falls Loop hiking trail in South Mountain State Park, North Carolina. 2 miles and a lot less people. Weather. enjoy! Climbing the steps and over the rocks is tough. Explore the best trails in High Shoals, North Carolina on TrailLink. This is about an injury or accident Something else? From the falls, continue on to complete a 2.7-mile loop and return to the trailhead. It’s a really nice office by the way with clean restrooms. GPS Directions & Map Some good winter vistas to enjoy along with the waterfall. Add Check-In. High Shoals Waterfall and H.Q. Loop Trail is a 7.6 kilometer heavily trafficked loop trail located near Connelly Springs, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Salem, NC. An easy one-mile hike along the Jacob Fork River leads to the base of High Shoals Falls in South Mountains State Park. It’s a steep hike to the top but the trail has stairs where stone steps are missing and it’s well-guarded. Duration ... High Shoals Falls Loop Trail 2.3 mi 3.7 km • 524' Up 159.67 m Up • 516' Down 157.42 m Down. After about half a mile you will see signs for High Shoals Falls. ft. single-family home is a 4 bed, 4.0 bath property. We did the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail. It was beautiful and if you go early in the day you won’t run into many folks. Only saw 1 other hiker until the falls (near the end). You may want to download the trail map before you go because the cell service in this area can be spotty. Counter clockwise is the ticket! I've hiked this both clockwise and counterclockwise. Definitely take a walking stick and wear hiking boots to help with that. High Schoals Falls is a beautiful, crystal-clear, 80-foot plunging waterfall. High Shoals Falls is created by five successive waterfalls equaling a total 300 ft drop along a 1.2 mile trail with observation decks for two of the falls. Or hike the 2.7-mile loop which includes a short section of stair climbing. Note: Plan to arrive early, as park can close if it reaches full capacity. This is a great area to take a break, relax, and enjoy the view from the top of the falls. A true backcountry experience is offered at 24 backpacking campsites at seven locations. Loved this trail. Junction with the H.Q. If people are walking faster than you, there is ample room to pass and the descent is very gentle with wide trails. The 3,191 sq. Mar 30, 2016 near Marion, NC. Instead, form some sort of customized and longer loop using the other trails in the park to enhance your experience. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Turn right at trail intersections and return to … Loop Trail. I wouldn't just do this trail as your hike, unless you have limited time. It was classified as a strenuous 2.7 mile hike. Fantastic trail. Date. Most people turn around and head back to the parking lot or take the loop trail on the other side of the river. it gets muddy on the stairs by the falls, if you have good. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Very wet and flooded but we went after heavy rain. There are some constructed wood boxes between stair sets that are filled with mud at least 6 inches deep. trail is past the bridge on the right; continue straight. This trail provided both—it was easy enough for me to casually hike while still gave me a bit of a workout with those wooden steps! Despite being called "Secret" for a long time, the falls isn't much of one - it's an easy hike to it now - but I can see how locals might have wanted to keep it that way. agree with the others to go counter clockwise, couldnt figure out how to connect it with the HQ trail. The powerful flow of the river has exposed all of the surrounding bedrock. To the right is the longest distance to the top of the gorge but the slope is not as steep as to the left. The falls are beautiful and well worth the effort. It’s perfect for a good workout and absolutely BEAUTIFUL views. Most visitors come to South Mountains State Park during the summer months, when High Shoals Falls Trail becomes a kinetic wave of people. - See 107 traveler reviews, 208 candid photos, and great deals for Connelly Springs, NC… South Mountains State Park: High Shoals Falls trail is a strenuous hike but with a nice pay off! Beautiful hike. This is a much more pleasant hike on weekdays as the stairs are narrow so you'll be waiting on other people a lot if you go during a busy period. Being a jerk / offensive? From the Jacob Fork parking area in South Mountains State Park, it is a short 1 mile walk over the Jacob River to the High Shoals Waterfall (80'). Been several years since I had been here and I can see improvements made. To get to the From Charlotte, NC, take Hwy 27 West to Hwy 18 North and follow the brown and white signs to the park. If you choose to continue past the observation deck, High Shoals Falls Trail (blue circle) climbs up above the waterfall, crossing the river. I would form some sort of customized and longer loop using the other trails in the park to enhance your experience. Add Rating. Spam? Small dogs won't be able to get up the stairs and unless your dog is very agile and used to hard terrain, you'll be carrying him/her in some parts. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The trail continues up steep steps and crosses the river again above the waterfall. Loved the trail! The falls is located at South Mountains State Park in North Carolina. The High Shoals Falls Trail travels through a lush, mossy creek valley to one of the largest and most beautiful waterfalls in North Georgia. The trail begins at the Jacob Fork parking lot which is a mile or so beyond the South Mountain State Park office. It continues another 1.4 miles up to Chestnut Knob Overlook. 0 Comments Post Comment. Highly recommend. Less than 90 minutes east of Asheville is South Mountains State Park, home to High Shoals Falls and the hiking trails leading up to stunning cascades of water. Average, touristy hike featuring a tall and beautiful waterfall. Secret Falls. More steep steps lead past the waterfall and up to the top for a view of the upper falls. Things are busier around the water fall and swampy, but BEAUTIFUL! The trailhead is in the Jacob Fork Parking area. This rock outcropping offers a beautiful view of the Jacob Fork Gorge. This fork marks the beginning and the end of the trail's loop. Became quite crowded once I hit the stairs. As you leave High Shoals Falls, continue to head up the trail and you will eventually reach the top of the falls. beautiful hike including an incredible waterfall, steady climbing on rocks, and through pine trees on the upper half. First, pick up a trail map from the ranger station. Well maintained trail with great view of the falls. What I most enjoyed - aside from the incredible waterfalls and river flowing down the mountain - was that it’s mostly a one-way trail since it’s a loop, therefore you rarely, if ever, have anyone passing you going in the opposite direction. This is probably the most popular hike at South Mountains State Park featuring a wonderful creek, 80 ft waterfall, mountain vista, all in a woodland habitat. After ascending a moderate grade look for an opening to the left. Beautiful hike with just enough climb to feel the burn. Continue on Upper Falls Trail until you come to a junction with HQ trail. View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. 2,248 m black diamond singletrack trail. Highly recommend! Steady moderate climb to the top then down to the falls. Was a great hike! It does get extraordinarily crowded on weekends so plan accordingly. GORGEOUS! There is no charge for entry or parking. The trailhead is located in the Jacob Fork Parking Area at South Mountains State Park. Nevertheless, there is now an official Forest Service trail to the falls, which was called "Big Shoals Trail" after it was designated. We’re pretty icy but with caution definitely doable. I wish there had been more Mountain View’s! It has beautiful scenery, well maintained trails and pet friendly. Fox Trail campsites Jacob Branch campsites Chestnut Knob Overlook Elev. Follow HQ trail back to the Jacob Fork Parking Area. The trail follows the Jacob Fork Creek from the lower parking lot, and to reach the top of the falls, quite a few steps must be climbed. The area is open, very peaceful, and even has a few picnic tables nicely positioned on the side of the river. Great trail. High Shoals Falls Trail is a 2.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Hiawassee, Georgia that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. We did the High Shoals Falls Loop Trail. Absolutely beautiful. Conditions History. You can tailor the experience to fit your plans. Once you enter the park, drive to the end of the road to the Ranger Station and Jacob Fork Parking Area. Trail was fine, a bit muddy in some places and a bit icy in others. Current Trail Conditions Update Conditions. From Morganton, NC, take exit 105 on I-40 and follow the brown and white signs to the park. The scene is impressive very popular trail takes hikers about a mile you will have nice views the... Distance to the river right side of the trail begins at the Fork. Saw 1 other hiker until the Falls but a real nice hike the others to go for a short of. 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