Linville Falls
Linville falls is one of the easiest destinations to reach on the parkway, less than a mile off of highway 221. This is a spectacular place to visit in all seasons. There are two basic trails.
The main trail, that most people take, crosses Linville River and circles the South West side of the river. For the most part it is very well maintained and smooth, similar to a gravel drive or dirt road.
From this leg your first spur trail will take you to the Upper Falls. This is a beautiful area with a view of small falls flowing into a pond-like area of the river before it flows down the larger falls into the basin. Usually this is a busy outlook because it is the nearest and easiest reach.
The second spur trail is the Chimney view. From here you have a higher vantage point and giving you a view of the upper and lower falls and down into the basin, giving you a detailed look at everything.
At Erwin’s View, you have a wonderful panoramic vista allowing you to enjoy a vast mountain background as the Linville River pours out of the forest. This is one of our favorite overlooks, especially during the fall.
Our last destination on this side of the river is the Gorge Overlook. From here you can see for miles. The South Eastern part of the gorge is absolutely gorgeous. With the high mountains and outcroppings as the river disappears into the distance, there aren’t many views similar to this one.
On the North Eastern side of the river, the trail will take you to the basin below the falls. This route is not as traveled. This trail is not as smooth and more difficult. On the last part, as you descend to the river, the trail goes straight down and you have to use a crude ladder/steps. As you reach the bottom the roar of the falls echoes off the rocky sides of the gorge and air is filled with mist. It is well worth it. The falls are beautiful and there are several nice places to have a picnic by the water.
For more information check out their website: Linville Falls