Near Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek
Apple Orchard Falls freezes solid in winter.
Near Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek
This is just one of many cascades down Cornelius Creek.
Near Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek
A fellow hiker enjoys the chilly spray from Apple Orchard Falls.
Near Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek
There's ample parking at the North Creek parking access to the Apple Orchard Falls Trail.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Apple Orchard Falls - Cornelius Creek

4.6 (15 Ratings)
A loop hike leading to view the Apple Orchard Falls on North Creek and Cornelius Creek
7.4
mi
Distance
2,261
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
River/CreekViewsWaterfall
Access Issues
This route is quite safe as long as you stay on the trail. Do not leave the trail around the falls.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
7.38mi
Distance
2,261ft
Elevation Gain
2,261ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
3,462ft
High Point
1,472ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This hike starts from the Sunset Fields parking on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Begin by following the Apple Orchard Falls Trail, crossing the Appalachian Trail and continuing down to view the falls. Then continue descending the Apple Orchard Falls Trail along North Creek. On reaching the opposite trailhead for this trail, turn and climb the Cornelius Creek Trail viewing the cascades of Cornelius Creek. The Cornelius Creek Trail ends at its junction with the Appalachian Trail. Turn left onto the A.T. and return to the Apple Orchard Falls Trail. Follow this back to the parking at Sunset Fields.If you have a mixed group of stronger and weaker hikers, you can leave a shuttle car at the North Creek Parking midway down the Apple Orchard Falls Trail.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
John Phillips