Crab Orchard Falls Trail
Description
A great waterfall hike near Banner Elk can be found along the Crab Orchard Falls Trail.
There are actually two trails to the waterfall. Both start behind Johnson Hall on the campus of the Valle Crucis Conference Center, and both are open to the public.
The old trail measures about 1.3 miles and the new trail is just over 1.5 miles. They have a total elevation gain of 324 feet and are considered moderate to slightly strenuous in difficulty.
The new trail, which opened in 2024, provides a gentler slope up the mountain, as well as more sustainable surfacing and opportunities for native plants to flourish near the trail. The old boardwalk to the falls has been replaced with stone steps. Hikers can choose an up-and-back path on the new trail, or use the old trail to return to the main campus, for a total loop of 1.3 miles.
For years, Crab Orchard Falls Trail was considered a locals’ secret until its popularity soared during the Covid pandemic as tourists sought outdoor experiences away from major population bases. It remains popular today.
Key Points for Visitors
— Park in the parking area for the Church of the Holy Cross.
— To access the trails, walk past Johnson Hall and up the gravel path. The old trail starts to the left and the new trail is on the right.
— Wear dependable hiking shoes. The trails are known to be muddy and slippery after a rain or snow.
— There is a portable bathroom at the beginning of the trail. No other public toilets are available.
— VCCC is a non-profit reliant on donations to maintain/improve its trails. Please consider making a contribution via the QR code on the trail sign.
— Those seeking an extended hike may follow the main trail another two miles past the waterfall to Bishop’s Ridge.
Description
A great waterfall hike near Banner Elk can be found along the Crab Orchard Falls Trail.
There are actually two trails to the waterfall. Both start behind Johnson Hall on the campus of the Valle Crucis Conference Center, and both are open to the public.
The old trail measures about 1.3 miles and the new trail is just over 1.5 miles. They have a total elevation gain of 324 feet and are considered moderate to slightly strenuous in difficulty.
The new trail, which opened in 2024, provides a gentler slope up the mountain, as well as more sustainable surfacing and opportunities for native plants to flourish near the trail. The old boardwalk to the falls has been replaced with stone steps. Hikers can choose an up-and-back path on the new trail, or use the old trail to return to the main campus, for a total loop of 1.3 miles.
For years, Crab Orchard Falls Trail was considered a locals’ secret until its popularity soared during the Covid pandemic as tourists sought outdoor experiences away from major population bases. It remains popular today.
Key Points for Visitors
— Park in the parking area for the Church of the Holy Cross.
— To access the trails, walk past Johnson Hall and up the gravel path. The old trail starts to the left and the new trail is on the right.
— Wear dependable hiking shoes. The trails are known to be muddy and slippery after a rain or snow.
— There is a portable bathroom at the beginning of the trail. No other public toilets are available.
— VCCC is a non-profit reliant on donations to maintain/improve its trails. Please consider making a contribution via the QR code on the trail sign.
— Those seeking an extended hike may follow the main trail another two miles past the waterfall to Bishop’s Ridge.