Margarette Falls
A beautiful waterfall hike with scenic creek views and charming mini-falls along a moderately challenging, rocky trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fuller cascades, more dramatic
Margarette Falls
Best Time
Fuller cascades, more dramatic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful waterfall hike with scenic creek views and charming mini-falls along a moderately challenging, rocky trail.
"The falls are absolutely beautiful and worth the effort to see."
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers!
💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls
The falls are most impressive when water flow is high.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Margarette Falls
End of the main trail
A stunning cascade at the end of a rewarding hike, worth every step.
Mini Waterfalls & Creek Views
Along the trail
Enjoy numerous smaller falls and scenic creek views on your journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Footwear
Best Conditions & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
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I was wondering if anyone could help me out. Wife and I want to hike to Margarette Falls in NC, but I can't seem to find the actual miles it takes to hike there. Several online sources give confliting answers. We want to hike it, but not if it's too long.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers!
💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls
The falls are most impressive when water flow is high.
Have you been to Greeneville? If so, which sites and activities would you suggest?
⚠️ Be Cautious on Rocky Sections
The trail gets tricky near the top; take your time and watch your footing.
🅿️ Ample Parking Available
The trailhead usually has plenty of space for visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential
Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers!
💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls
The falls are most impressive when water flow is high.
⚠️ Be Cautious on Rocky Sections
The trail gets tricky near the top; take your time and watch your footing.
🅿️ Ample Parking Available
The trailhead usually has plenty of space for visitors.
🗺️ Well-Marked Trail
The out-and-back path is generally easy to follow.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Margarette Falls and the scenic journey with its numerous mini-waterfalls. The hike is considered rewarding, though the rocky and slick terrain requires sturdy footwear and careful navigation. While generally well-marked, some sections can be challenging, especially after rain.
"Hiked in late November. It had rained recently and also was near freezing. With the leaves everywhere it made spots a bit slippery. I'm also not in that good of shape, so the hike up was a bit challenging. I was able to do it without stopping in either direction.
The falls are absolutely beautiful and worth the effort to see. Bring good sturdy hiking boots, as the rocks are jagged and require some level of focus to keep balanced. Despite it being cold, when I was there there was no shortage of other hikers along the trail. It was a nice hike, but not the kind where you can really drift off. It does require some level of focus."
Preston Albert
"A fantastic waterfalls with beautiful creek views and mini waterfalls the whole way up. I will say that while this hike isn't overbearing on elevation gain, there are some slick and very rocky areas that can be dangerous. There is also a creek crossing so be prepared with proper footwear. We managed to make it there with a 1 year old and 3 year old but there were some sketchy spots for young children. The hike is worth it though and the falls are beautiful. The first part starts out with a flat gravel trail and then forks right where it begins to get rocky and slick. Take your time, be cautious, and take in all the beauty. Ample parking at the trailhead too."
Alex Monsrud
"Beautiful trail. Easy at beginning gets a bit rocky as you continue to the falls. Plenty of excellent mini falls on the way. Water crossings that can be a little slippery."
Jeremy “LivelyHiker” Caplinger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Margarette Falls is accessed via a well-marked out-and-back trail. While specific mileage can vary, it's generally considered a moderate hike. The trailhead typically has ample parking available.
The hike starts relatively flat but becomes rocky and slick, especially closer to the falls. While not overly strenuous in terms of elevation gain, the terrain requires focus and good footwear.
Online sources vary, but many reviews suggest the roundtrip hike is around 2.4 miles. It's important to be prepared for the terrain rather than just the distance.
Some visitors have managed with young children, but caution is advised due to slippery and rocky sections. It's best to assess your children's abilities and be prepared for some challenging spots.
Yes, there is a stream crossing that involves hopping on large rocks. While it's often possible to stay dry, wearing waterproof footwear or being prepared for wet feet is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Margarette Falls is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trail and falls is generally free.
As a natural outdoor area, Margarette Falls does not have set operating hours. It is accessible during daylight hours, but hiking in the dark is not recommended due to trail conditions.
There is no entrance fee to visit Margarette Falls. It's a public access area for hiking and enjoying nature.
Yes, Margarette Falls can be visited in winter, but be extra cautious of icy conditions on the trail. The falls may be partially frozen, offering a different kind of beauty.
The initial part of the trail is a flat gravel path, but it quickly becomes rocky and uneven, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. It is not considered an accessible trail for wheelchairs or strollers beyond the very beginning.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best way is to hike the trail, taking your time to enjoy the mini-falls and creek views along the way. The main waterfall at the end is the ultimate reward.
Information regarding restrooms at the trailhead is not consistently available. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions.
Expect a beautiful forest setting with a flowing creek, numerous smaller cascades, and the impressive main waterfall at the end of the hike.
Yes, Margarette Falls and the surrounding creek offer many beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the mini-falls and lush greenery.
Swimming is generally not recommended at Margarette Falls due to the rocky terrain and strong currents. The focus is on the hiking and viewing experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Margarette Falls is a natural area, and dining options are typically found in nearby towns. It's best to pack a picnic or plan to eat before or after your hike.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a packed meal along the trail or at the trailhead. Remember to pack out all trash.
Bring plenty of water, especially for the hike. Snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or sandwiches are recommended for sustenance during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The main waterfall itself is a prime subject. Also, capture the numerous mini-falls and the scenic creek as you hike. The forest setting provides a beautiful backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. After rainfall, the water flow will be more dramatic, enhancing photographic opportunities.
A smartphone camera can capture great shots, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for landscape shots. A tripod can help with long exposures of the water.
There are no specific photography restrictions mentioned for Margarette Falls. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
For silky smooth water, use a slower shutter speed. For a more dynamic look, a faster shutter speed can freeze the water's movement. Experiment with aperture for depth of field.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendations for families:
* Prioritize footwear: Ensure everyone, especially children, wears sturdy, closed-toe shoes with excellent grip.
* Go slow and steady: Take your time, especially during the stream crossing and the steeper, rockier parts. Consider carrying younger children through difficult sections.
* Pack essentials: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Be prepared for the possibility of wet feet during the stream crossing.
* Assess the conditions: If it has rained heavily, the trail might be too slippery for very young children. Consider a less challenging hike on such days.
👟 Hikers Seeking a Moderate Challenge
Tips for a great hike:
* Invest in good hiking boots: This cannot be stressed enough. Proper footwear is key to navigating the jagged rocks and slippery surfaces safely.
* Check the weather: Hiking after rain makes the falls more impressive but also increases the slipperiness of the trail. Be prepared for damp conditions.
* Pace yourself: The uphill climb can be taxing. Take breaks as needed and enjoy the numerous mini-waterfalls and creek views along the way.
* Consider a weekday visit: To avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful hike, aim for a weekday, especially in the morning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Margarette Falls Trail
Key challenges include navigating jagged rocks, exposed roots, and slippery surfaces, especially after recent rain. Visitors consistently recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction to maintain balance and prevent slips. There's also a stream crossing that requires hopping on large rocks, which can be tricky and may result in wet feet if not careful. Despite these challenges, the trail is generally well-marked, and the beauty of the numerous mini-waterfalls and the creek views along the way make the effort worthwhile.
For those looking to extend their hike, there are options to make the journey longer, though the primary destination remains the main waterfall. It's a hike that requires focus rather than casual strolling, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all hikers.
The Beauty of Margarette Falls and Its Surroundings
Beyond the main attraction, the journey to Margarette Falls is equally enchanting. The trail is dotted with numerous mini-waterfalls and offers constant beautiful creek views. These smaller cascades and the babbling water create a serene and picturesque environment throughout the hike. The lush forest setting adds to the overall charm, providing a tranquil escape into nature.
Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture the natural beauty, from the grand main waterfall to the intricate details of the smaller falls and the textures of the rocks and moss. The combination of the challenging hike and the stunning natural scenery makes Margarette Falls a memorable destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
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