One of the Popular Waterfalls Near Boone, NC
Laurel Creek Falls, also known as Trash Can Falls, is no longer a secret among locals. It is one of the popular waterfalls near Boone, N.C., and campus of Appalachian State.
Don’t the let the nickname fool you. It’s a pretty pristine and beautiful swimming hole. The area was nicknamed Trash Can Falls because Watauga County used to have a dumpster site on the pull-off area where people park today.
At the top of the falls is a nice flat area with rather calm water to creek walk and hangout. The top of the falls is a nice place for younger kids to enjoy the water. The trek to the top isn’t too strenuous or sketchy, though I would be cautious with children.
The area is usually overflowing with college students and other folks cooling off on a sunny day. Other days, visitors from out of town drop in for a quick family photo or mini-hike to see the falls. It wasn’t that long ago that the area was sparsely populated with visitors. Something changed in the past 10 years, and parking has become a challenge.
Like the Snake Pit swimming hole located about 300 yards downstream of the Watauga River, this area as a few boulder problems. Though I wouldn’t go here or there for the climbing. Also, I’ve seen expert kayakers navigate the falls occasionally over the years.
Directions, Parking and River Access to Laurel Creek Falls
Laurel Creek Falls is located about 15 minutes from Boone.
From Boone, travel along U.S. 421/U.S. 321 until you come to the intersection of both highways near Skate World. Take a left onto U.S. 321 and drive until you come to the U.S. 321 Bridge over the Watauga River.
Directly after the bridge is Watauga River Road in Sugar Grove, and Watauga County has built a river access and parking lot for the public. This is a paved parking lot with a picnic pavilion. About 100 yards downstream from the bridge is a gravel pull-off. Both of these parking areas fill up quickly. If you park on the highway shoulder, the State Highway Patrol will tow your vehicle.
From the gravel pull-off, cross the street. Walk downstream 10 to 20 yards and you should see a path through the woods that leads to Laurel Creek Falls, aka Trash Can Falls.
The walk isn’t very long or strenuous, though I would walk with caution especially if you have children. Be careful and have fun at Laurel Creek Falls.