Linville Falls and Caverns
Linville Falls is the most popular waterfall in the Blue Ridge Mountains because of its accessibility to the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is a spectacular three-tiered waterfall plunging into Linville Gorge, the “Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians.”
About 30 minutes from Knob Hill Chalet, exit Blue Ridge Parkway spur at Milepost 316.3. There is no cost to visit and there are trails for any level of walking ability: The Falls Trail distance is 1.6 miles round trip and easy. The Gorge Trail distance is 1.4 miles round trip and strenuous. The Plunge Basin Trail is 1 mile round trip and moderate. While it may be busier on the weekends, this adventure is definitely worth the visit. The views are spectacular and it is a kid favorite. While you are out this way or maybe on a less than agreeable weather day, Linville Caverns is an interesting, kid-friendly place to visit. It is one of North Carolina's only caverns that you can tour and the temperature is a cool 52 degrees year round. There is a cost associated with the visit and depending on the time of year, you can walk right in or may have to wait in line. A guided tour of the caves lasts about 40 minutes, and visitors can view stunning stalagmites and stalactites. If water drips on you from the cavern ceilings while you are in there, they call it a 'cave kiss'. |
For a real adventure, travel up Wiseman's View for a breath taking look at the Linville Gorge. Please note: The drive up is about 3 miles on a narrow gravel road before reaching the top where there is a parking lot and a short walk to the overlooks.
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