Tucked Beneath A North Carolina Waterfall's Misty Hills Is A Swimming Hole With Charming Hikes

Less than 40 minutes south of picturesque Lake Junaluska at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, a Blue Ridge Parkway access point at milepost 411.8 leads travelers on a scenic 7-mile drive to a beloved family-friendly destination known as Graveyard Fields. Spooky old stumps of trees that used to decorate the area before a 1925 fire inspired Graveyard Fields' name, but sightseers don't let the eerie title stop them from exploring the area's incredible hiking trails, spectacular waterfalls, and inviting swimming hole.

Here, the adventure begins at a roadside overlook with informational placards and Blue Ridge Mountain views. While stunning landscapes, parking spots, and nearby restrooms make Graveyard Fields an excellent stop for the ideal getaway along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the real fun awaits you at the end of the trail. From the Graveyard Fields Trailhead, past clusters of rhododendrons, and down wooden stairways, hikers will find the Lower Falls. This gorgeous sight cascades down rocks and into a pool perfect for a swim.

While best visited on summer days when warm weather makes cooling off in the water feel extra refreshing, Graveyard Fields' Lower Falls (aka Second Falls) also wows in autumn thanks to colorful Blue Ridge foliage. That said, the winter off-season offers great lodging prices in nearby towns, making the falls an appealing budget destination for hikers willing to navigate icy patches. No matter when you visit, a trip to this waterfall will likely require some driving. The closest major airport is Asheville Regional Airport, about an hour's drive away, and though some cyclists enjoy peddling their way down the Blue Ridge Parkway, you'll definitely want a car to reach this scenic road and navigate the surrounding region.

Before you begin your Graveyard Fields outing, make sure to pack your best (and safest) hiking gear. Comfortable, quality hiking boots are a must, as is a swimsuit, if you plan to take a dip in the swimming hole. You'll also want to pack a bag with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Bear spray can be another useful piece of equipment here, as bears have been spotted in the area.

Once you're packed and ready to go, depart from the Graveyard Fields Trailhead and head north to reach Second Falls. Expect portions of the trail to include wooden stairs, and look out for the bridge crossing over a prong of Yellowstone Creek. After the bridge, follow the trail to the right for beautiful views of Second Falls. The pool in the Lower Falls area will be a welcome sight after tackling the short but steep Graveyard Fields hike.

In total, the roundtrip journey measures just over half a mile long. This out-and-back trip starts with a descent, but the hike back will make travelers deal with over 100 feet of elevation gain. Even so, most people should be able to complete the trek in about 20 minutes. That said, if the weather is right for swimming, give yourself plenty of extra time to enjoy the pool.

After your Graveyard Fields waterfall outing, keep the Blue Ridge fun going with more hiking at nearby Black Balsam Knob. Another short yet steep route, this trail leads visitors to breathtaking overlooks and fresh air that has been sweetly scented by local balsam trees. The surrounding region also boasts several other spectacular sights, including Log Hollow Overlook, Sliding Rock, and Looking Glass Falls, among others.

When planning where to stay in the area, remember that most hotels and inns will be clustered in the northwest or southeast. In the southeast, Brevard offers everything from campgrounds to quaint motels and reliable chain hotels. Just outside Brevard in Pisgah Forest, travelers seeking a taste of luxury can also book a stay at Skyterra Wellness Retreat. A similar range of accommodations lies northwest of Graveyard Fields, with spaces like the updated Dogwood Boutique Motel providing comfortable rooms for affordable prices and high-end properties like The Swag treating guests to a bit of pampering.

As far as local restaurants go, you'll again find many options northwest of Graveyard Fields near the scenic mountain towns of Waynesville and Maggie Valley. For a homey, hearty breakfast before your hike, stop by beloved Maggie Valley diner Joey's Pancake House. When you're ready for lunch or pre-dinner drinks, Waynesville's Boojum Brewery Taproom and Frog Level Brewing Company bring the heat with tasty beers and bites. There are even nearby options for a fancy, satisfying dinner, with spots like Singletree Heritage Kitchen offering expertly-curated and ever-evolving menus full of fresh ingredients.