There are two major waterfall sites in the United States that are named Crabtree Falls. This particular waterfall is found at a popular stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Don't expect to enjoy this falls area by yourself, and this is particularly true during the autumn season. Many parkway visitors will tackle the 2.5 mile round-trip hike to take-in this beautiful 70 foot waterfall. Located at milepost 339.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway (about 45 miles north of Asheville, NC), the trail to Crabtree Falls is a fairly steep descent. The trail is a quite rocky in places and drop-offs are aided by stairs. It's a wonderful stop on the parkway.
   The descent to the falls is just under a mile, and hikers may consider continuing on a scenic loop trail, adding another 1.5 miles to the hike. Rated as moderate to strenuous because of the incline and rocky terrain, sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended.
   At one time the brilliant pink blossoms of the crabapple tree were prominent in this area, hence the name Crabtree Falls. Now, hikers may enjoy seasonal hawthorne, beard tongue, mountain laurel, gentian and rosebay rhododendron. A campground, picnic area and restaurant are located at this stop on the parkway.

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