Tom's Creek Falls
Discover the stunning 80-foot Tom's Creek Falls via an easy, shaded 1.2-mile hike. Explore upper cascades and enjoy a peaceful natural escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Tom's Creek Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the stunning 80-foot Tom's Creek Falls via an easy, shaded 1.2-mile hike. Explore upper cascades and enjoy a peaceful natural escape.
"Beautiful place to visit! We liked it here, really nice waterfall."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Get there early for the best chance to park. :car:
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly later in the day. Pack repellent for a more comfortable hike. :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tom's Creek Falls
Main viewing area
An 80-foot waterfall cascading down, offering a beautiful and rewarding sight after a short, easy hike.
Shaded Forest Trail
Trail leading to the falls
Enjoy a cooler walk under a canopy of trees, with park benches along the 1.2-mile round trip path for rest.
Upper Creek Exploration
Accessible via forest road above falls
Discover several smaller, unnamed waterfalls by exploring further up the creek from the main viewing area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Peaceful Visit
Essential Gear for Your Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tom’s Creek Falls Trail Near Marion, NC. Easy Hike ending at the Tom’s Creek Waterfall.
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Get there early for the best chance to park. :car:
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly later in the day. Pack repellent for a more comfortable hike. :bug:
Linville Gorge half day hike suggestions?
Trails for beginners in the NC Mountains?
👟 Easy & Shaded Hike
The 1.2-mile round trip trail is easy, shaded, and has benches for resting. Great for all fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Elopement Spot
A beautiful and intimate location for elopements, though large weddings might find the main platform limiting. :ring:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Get there early for the best chance to park. :car:
🦟 Bring Bug Spray!
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly later in the day. Pack repellent for a more comfortable hike. :bug:
👟 Easy & Shaded Hike
The 1.2-mile round trip trail is easy, shaded, and has benches for resting. Great for all fitness levels. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Elopement Spot
A beautiful and intimate location for elopements, though large weddings might find the main platform limiting. :ring:
🏞️ Explore Above the Falls
Venture up the forest road for views of additional, less-known waterfalls along the creek. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful 80-foot waterfall and the easy, shaded 1.2-mile round trip hike at Tom's Creek Falls. Many appreciate the accessibility and the peaceful atmosphere, especially when visiting during off-peak times. Some mention limited parking and the presence of mosquitoes as minor drawbacks.
"Beautiful place to visit! We liked it here, really nice waterfall💧I don't like to walk too far because my feet and ankles start hurting but this wasn't too much of a walk👍🏼 mosquitoes did get really bad towards the end of the day though, so definitely bring bug spray! 🦟 If you like to go at your own pace this trail is great because it's large enough where people can just walk around you. There were quite a few people out there so it was a little busy on a Sunday when I went. Overall pretty peaceful and quiet❤️"
Amanda Cumber
"Beautiful waterfall. I would get there early on a weekday if you want the place to yourself during summer months. Easy hike. Limited parking. We explored further up the creek by accesses the forest road that runs above the falls. There are several other waterfalls above the main fall. There is no trail to these off of the old logging road."
Kipp White
"Really enjoys Tom's Creek Falks Trail. The waterfall was beautiful & the hike was not bad at all. Beautiful fall day to enjoy the colors and got there early enough so it was not crowded."
victoria duty
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tom's Creek Falls is located near Marion, North Carolina. The trail is approximately 1.2 miles round trip and is generally well-marked. Access is typically via a forest road.
Yes, you can drive to the vicinity of Tom's Creek Falls. However, parking is limited and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. :car:
If parking is full, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving very early. Exploring alternative nearby trails in Linville Gorge might be an option if time permits.
Public transportation options directly to Tom's Creek Falls are generally limited. It's best to plan for travel by private vehicle.
Tom's Creek Falls is situated in the western part of North Carolina, often associated with the Linville Gorge area, near the town of Marion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no admission fee required to visit Tom's Creek Falls. It's a natural attraction accessible to the public. :ticket:
As a natural outdoor attraction, Tom's Creek Falls does not have set operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
No, there is generally no entrance fee for the Tom's Creek Falls trail. Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission cost.
Time slot bookings are not typically required for Tom's Creek Falls, as it's a natural attraction. However, arriving early is recommended due to limited parking.
For general day visits to Tom's Creek Falls, no special permits are usually required. However, if planning events like weddings, specific arrangements might be necessary. :scroll:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Tom's Creek Falls is a relatively easy 1.2 miles round trip. It's well-shaded and features park benches along the way. :hiking_boot:
No, the trail is considered easy and is suitable for most fitness levels. The path is shaded and not overly strenuous. :walking:
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Lightweight clothing is recommended, and consider bringing bug spray as mosquitoes can be present. :sneakers:
Information on restroom facilities at Tom's Creek Falls is limited. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving or be prepared for primitive conditions.
Swimming directly at the base of the waterfall may not be advisable or safe due to the terrain and water flow. Enjoy the views from the designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. Visiting on a weekday when crowds are thinner will also make for better, unobstructed photos. :camerawithflash:
Absolutely! The main waterfall is a stunning subject, and the surrounding forest and upper creek areas offer diverse photographic possibilities. :camera:
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for great shots. If you're into landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can capture the full waterfall and its surroundings. :iphone:
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in natural areas before flying.
The main viewing area provides excellent views of the falls. For different perspectives, consider exploring the trail further or the forest road above.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Arriving early, especially on weekends, is crucial for families to secure parking and avoid the biggest crowds. The relatively short duration of the hike means little ones are less likely to get tired or restless. It's a great way to introduce children to the beauty of North Carolina's natural landscapes in an accessible way.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While generally safe, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and expected return time. Bringing bug spray is a good idea, and carrying water is recommended. The opportunity to explore the upper creek areas also provides a sense of discovery for those venturing out alone.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the falls and its environment. For those interested in capturing the movement of water, a tripod can be beneficial, especially in lower light conditions. The accessibility of the trail makes it easy to move around and find different angles for unique shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Hike to Tom's Creek Falls
This trail is ideal for those who appreciate nature without undertaking a strenuous trek. It’s a place where you can walk at your own pace, allowing for a more personal connection with the environment. The combination of easy terrain, natural shade, and the soothing presence of the creek makes the hike to Tom's Creek Falls a truly pleasant experience for visitors of all ages.
Discovering the Upper Waterfalls
These less-visited waterfalls offer a more secluded experience for those willing to explore. They provide a different perspective on the creek's natural beauty and can be a rewarding find for hikers seeking a bit more adventure. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of your surroundings if you choose to venture off the beaten path.
Tom's Creek Falls as an Elopement Venue
While ideal for intimate gatherings, officiants note that it might be challenging to ensure everyone can hear soft-spoken vows if the group is too large or positioned too far from the main platform. For those planning a wedding or elopement here, it's recommended to consider the acoustics and the number of guests carefully. The natural beauty, however, makes it an undeniably special place to start a married life.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit