Crabtree Falls
Waterfall · North Carolina
ℹ️ Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
A 70-foot waterfall just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 339.5 that drops into a clear pool ringed by boulders. The 2.5-mile loop trail descends through wildflower-filled forest to the falls, a classic Parkway swim stop. The pool is cold even in midsummer and deep enough to swim in.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | 50s-60s, cold year-round |
| Depth | Pool at base, several feet deep in the center |
| Best season | June through September |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Crabtree Falls parking area at BRP MP 339.5; campground nearby |
| Amenities | Campground, Hiking trails |
| County | McDowell |
| Nearest town | Little Switzerland |
| Safety notes | NPS warns of slippery rocks and sudden high water. No lifeguard; do not climb the falls. |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Does Crabtree Falls require reservations?
No reservations are required at Crabtree Falls based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit Crabtree Falls?
The best season is typically June through September.
Is Crabtree Falls safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: NPS warns of slippery rocks and sudden high water. No lifeguard; do not climb the falls.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.
⚠️ Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026