Little Bradley Falls
Little Bradley Falls Trail, Little Bradley Trail, Saluda, NC, USA
Dawn to dusk
$
outdoor-adventures, water-activities, hikes
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Little Bradley is home to a kid-friendly waterfall hike that is perfect for families.
Located in Saluda, just two hours from Charlotte or just under an hour from Asheville, Little Bradley Falls is a great waterfall hike. This trail is just over two miles out and back. You will follow along the stream until you reach the waterfall. You will be in awe of this waterfall when you finally reach your destination. At the waterfall, there is a deep pool area to be able to swim around in. Bring your swimsuits and towels to cool off in the refreshing water. Since this is mountain water it is on the colder side but perfect for a nice hot day. There is trails up and around the waterfall but with any waterfall there is a risk to climbing up. Near the waterfall you can sit on the boulders to enjoy a snack or lunch while enjoying the views.
Since the trail is mildly tricky and there is another trail nearby, I have left some tips and tricks for this trail you will want to remember.
Tips and tricks for this hike:
1. Follow the GPS to the Little Bradley Falls trailhead and not the falls. You will go down a winding road until you see a small parking lot. The trail head is accessed across the parking lot area. Do not enter into the space where Big Bradley Falls is next to the parking lot. You will follow the trail upstream.
2. The trail is in need of some maintenance and there are several fallen trees you will need to duck under or climb over. The trail is also eroding in spots so you will need to drop into the stream.
3. Bring water shoes that are good to hike in or be prepared to get your feet wet. There are several water crossings that you will get at least ankle deep and mid calf high in.
4. There is a spot where you will come to a "T" and red marker blazes will be on both sides of the stream. Head across the stream (right) to follow the red blaze and do not head up hill (left) into the trees. Crossing the stream will take you to the trail to the waterfall.
5. The waterfall is a fantastic site and the swimming hole is great. We did see a snake in the water near the large boulders at the downhill spot of the falls. There is also fish that swim in the pool area. Just be aware of wildlife when taking a swim.
6. Remember to not remove rocks, make cairns, make dams, etc as this damages wildlife that live in the rocks and adds to the erosion issues. Stick to the trails.
This really is a great waterfall hike for families and one you will want to visit time and time again. Check this trail out for your next family-friendly adventure.