Graveyard Fields
Discover cascading waterfalls and vibrant fall foliage on this picturesque trail along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Abundant blueberries, fewer crowds
Graveyard Fields
Best Time
Abundant blueberries, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover cascading waterfalls and vibrant fall foliage on this picturesque trail along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
"Cooler temps, waterfalls, and peak fall colors all in one loop."
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small parking lot fills quickly. Be prepared to park on the roadside and walk.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky and sometimes muddy trails, especially to the upper falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Falls
Accessible via boardwalks and stairs
Cascading beauty with a popular swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Upper Falls
Challenging loop trail
A more rugged hike rewards with a scenic waterfall, ideal for adventurous souls.
Blueberry Patches
Along the trails
In season, discover wild blueberries and blackberries for a sweet, natural treat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Colors
Trail Difficulty Varies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small parking lot fills quickly. Be prepared to park on the roadside and walk.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky and sometimes muddy trails, especially to the upper falls.
💧 Swim with Caution
The swimming hole is inviting, but rocks can be slippery. Be mindful of your footing.
🫐 Forage Responsibly
Enjoy the wild blueberries and blackberries in season, but don't over-harvest.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Limited
The small parking lot fills quickly. Be prepared to park on the roadside and walk.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Essential for navigating the rocky and sometimes muddy trails, especially to the upper falls.
💧 Swim with Caution
The swimming hole is inviting, but rocks can be slippery. Be mindful of your footing.
🫐 Forage Responsibly
Enjoy the wild blueberries and blackberries in season, but don't over-harvest.
📸 Capture the Views
Spectacular fall foliage and waterfall shots await. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Graveyard Fields for its beautiful waterfalls and stunning fall foliage, with the lower falls being easily accessible and the upper falls offering a more challenging hike. Some find the trails strenuous and parking very limited, especially during peak times.
"The upper falls is a bit rough trekking. Not suitable for kids. The lower fall is part of a look that ends with a big stair and big rocks over lower falls. And the board walk is close to the lower falls. If anyone goes down the stairs closer to the restroom, they can quickly see the lowers falls and see the boardwalk without having to do the entire loop. Though the trail is really nice."
RRS
"This is an easy and fun area to hike. If you want a more challenging hike, there are connector trails that lead up to the knobs. I highly recommend jumping into the pristine water of the lower falls."
Nathan Lambertson
"We only did the shorter hike to the lower falls & towards the Mountain to Sea trail. Beautiful! Very tranquil place to rest, have a picnic lunch. It's off the Blue Ridge Parkway around Milepost 418. From the parking lot area you descend down stairs to the few trails. Fairly easy to moderate hike. Hiking shoes definitely recommended. Areas you can swim in but be careful for slippery rocks. Can't wait to go back and hike to the upper falls (about 3 miles round trip)"
Danette Kuzel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Graveyard Fields is located off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 418.8. The parking area is directly accessible from the parkway.
Yes, it's easily accessible by car via the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, parking can be very limited, especially during peak seasons.
From the parking lot, stairs lead down to the trails. The lower falls are easily reached via boardwalks, while the upper falls require a more strenuous hike.
No, Graveyard Fields is part of the Pisgah National Forest and does not have an entrance fee.
The Blue Ridge Parkway may close in winter due to ice and snow. Check parkway conditions before your visit. Trails can be icy and challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for Graveyard Fields. It's a natural area within the Pisgah National Forest.
Graveyard Fields is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access via the Blue Ridge Parkway is subject to parkway closures.
Visiting on a weekday morning, especially outside of peak fall foliage season, will offer a less crowded experience. Early August is great for blueberries.
The parking lot is small and fills up quickly. Be prepared for roadside parking, which can be a short walk to the trailhead.
Yes, there are restrooms located near the parking area, which are convenient for visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the lower falls is easy to moderate with stairs and boardwalks. The loop to the upper falls is considerably more difficult, with rough paths, rocks, and inclines.
The lower falls are accessible for most children. The upper falls trail is challenging and may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility.
Yes, Graveyard Fields is pet-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash.
Expect beautiful waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning fall foliage. In season, you'll also find wild blueberry and blackberry bushes. 
Yes, swimming is permitted in the lower falls area, but be cautious of slippery rocks.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities directly at Graveyard Fields. It's a natural area, so plan to bring your own food and drinks.
Absolutely! Graveyard Fields is a wonderful spot for a picnic lunch. There are scenic areas along the trails to relax and enjoy your meal.
Dining options are available in nearby towns like Brevard or Asheville, which are a scenic drive away from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
While there are occasional overlooks with vending machines, dedicated food vendors are scarce directly on the parkway. It's best to pack your own provisions.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Remember to pack out all trash to keep the area pristine.
📸 📸 Photography
The lower and upper falls offer stunning waterfall shots. The surrounding forests provide beautiful scenery, especially during fall foliage season.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the falls and foliage without harsh shadows.
For personal photography, no permit is typically required. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Check with the Pisgah National Forest.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and landscapes. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures of the water.
The boardwalks around the lower falls offer excellent vantage points. For the upper falls, the trail itself provides various scenic spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the hike to the upper falls is significantly more challenging and may not be suitable for very young children or those who aren't comfortable with rough terrain, rocks, and inclines. If you have adventurous older kids, it can be a fun challenge, but assess your children's capabilities beforehand. Packing snacks and plenty of water is always a good idea for family outings.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
The hike to the upper falls offers a great opportunity for a more strenuous solo workout and a chance to test your hiking skills on varied terrain. It’s a chance to connect with nature on a deeper level, away from the main crowds. Remember to always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essentials for safety.
📸 Photographers
+1For landscape photographers, the surrounding forests and the vibrant autumn colors offer endless possibilities. Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. The lower falls offer accessible viewpoints, while the more rugged upper falls trail can lead to unique perspectives for those willing to explore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails at Graveyard Fields
The loop trail to the upper falls, however, presents a different challenge. This route is considerably more demanding, involving an incline, rough terrain, large rocks, roots, and occasional muddy patches. It's a journey for those who appreciate the adventure and the experience of traversing a more rugged natural environment, with the upper falls serving as a rewarding, though perhaps less visually dramatic, destination compared to the lower falls.
Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended for both trails, but absolutely essential if you plan to tackle the upper falls. Be prepared for varying conditions, and always check weather forecasts before heading out.
The Allure of Fall Foliage
+2To truly appreciate the fall colors without the overwhelming crowds, visiting on a weekday morning is your best bet. Early risers can often find a more peaceful experience, allowing for better photo opportunities and a more serene connection with nature.
While the fall colors are a major draw, remember that this also means parking will be extremely limited. Be patient, consider carpooling if possible, and be prepared for roadside parking and a short walk to the trailhead.
Seasonal Delights: Berries and Swimming
For those seeking to cool off, the lower falls area features a popular swimming hole. While inviting, visitors are cautioned to be mindful of slippery rocks around the water's edge. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty on a warmer day.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying these natural amenities. Pack out everything you pack in, and be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit