Waterfall Hero Hikes: E. B. Jeffress Park

E. B. Jeffress Park is a 600-acre park along the Blue Ridge Parkway about 5 miles north of US-421 at milepost 271.9. The park is named for E. B. Jeffress, the 1934 chairman of the state highway commission who persuaded the federal government to route the Blue Ridge Parkway through its present location. The park has picnic areas, historic buildings and a short interpretive trail that leads to views of Cascade Falls, a long sliding waterfall. Additionally, the Mountains-to-Sea Trail runs through the park.

Directions:

Head east from Boone on US-421 south for about 10 miles and bear right for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn left to go southbound on the parkway and drive 4.4 miles to the parking area for E. B. Jeffress Park on the right at milepost 271.9.

Map:

Trails:

Cascades Trail:

Cascades Trail is a 1-mile loop starting from the north end of the parking area. It follows Fall Creek downstream and half-way through the loop, a spur leads to overlooks for Cascade Falls.

Points of Interest:

Cascade Falls:

Cascade Falls is a tall sliding waterfall, access from the Cascades Trail. Two overlooks provide views from the top and further down. Please stay on the trail to avoid erosion.