Hike to Glen Burney Falls

Although it’s rated as somewhat strenuous due to elevation changes, this 2.7-mile round-trip hiking trail is worth doing for the 3 wondrous waterfalls you’ll see along the way.

The trail starts at Broyhill Park in the Annie Cannon Gardens (which feature beautiful wildflowers in spring and summer), following New Year’s Creek to Glen Burney Falls, Glen Marie Falls, and Cascade Falls.

Along the way you’ll pass “The Ruins,” Blowing Rock’s sewage treatment system from the 1920s.

Note that these waterfalls drop off the side of the Blue Ridge Escarpment into John’s River Gorge, and the areas near the top require extra caution (especially after recent rains).

But the trek is worth it once you reach the stunning Glen Burney Falls, which tumbles 50 feet down a rock face into the tranquil pool below.