Exploring the wilderness in North Carolina is quite simply good for the soul. There’s something so carefree about hiking, whether under a canopy of trees or out in the wide open, that’s both relaxing and motivational. And anytime you can combine a fun little trail with a waterfall – and a swimming hole – well, it’s like having dessert smothered in whipped cream and fresh fruit.
Most people who visit Stone Mountain State Park overlook the hidden waterfall known as Widow's Creek Falls, in lieu of hiking the longer, more popular trails in the park.
Park your vehicle on Stone Mountain Road (there's a map below showing where to park) and walk a mere two-tenths of a mile over to the falls and the various swimming holes found in the long tail after the plunge pool.
Just about anyone can conquer this short trail. It has an elevation gain of only 16 feet. Just think: in under quite literally five minutes, you can walk from your parked car and be standing at the base of Widow's Creek Falls.
Listen intently as the soothing sounds of Widow's Creek spilling over the top of the falls calms your soul as it drops into the shallow plunge pool below.
If you're feeling especially adventurous, The Widow's Creek Trail continues on for another mile for a round trip total hike of 2.5 miles! You can learn more about the short, 0.2-mile trail to Widow's Creek Falls from our friends at AllTrails.com.
This isn’t the only way to enjoy Stone Mountain State Park. You can camp, go rock climbing, picnicking, fishing and more. And if you want to see the best of what the park has to offer, the Stone Mountain Loop Trail leads you to still another waterfall, over a granite dome, and past an old homestead! Learn more about the amazing Stone Mountain State Park on the North Carolina State Parks’ website, here. Admission is free. Park hours change with the season, see them at this link.
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