Waterfalls in Watauga County, NC

Hebron Colony Falls, Trashcan Falls

Watauga County is located 85 miles northeast of Asheville on Hwy 221. The county seat is Boone, NC. While Boone and Watauga County are better known for skiing and snowboarding, there are also several beautiful waterfalls in the area. For our guide we have chosen to feature two falls, Hebron Colony Falls, and Trashcan Falls, both of which are fairly accessible and offer great swimming opportunities.

For more on Watauga County visit Wikipedia’s Watauga County Article.

Hebron Colony Falls

Directions: From downtown Blowing Rock, drive 1.5 miles south on U.S. 221. Turn right on Shulls Mill Road (S.R. 1552), drive 1.9 miles. Turn left on Old Turnpike Road (S.R. 1558), and after driving 1.3 miles you will see a parking area on the side of the road.

Trail Length: The trail is approximately 0.5 miles long.
Trail Difficulty: Moderate

Trashcan Falls

Directions: Trashcan Falls is located near the Sugar Grove area and is a longtime favorite hangout of Appalachian State University students. From downtown Boone, take U.S. 421 west until you reach the intersection with U.S. 321. Make a left and drive approximately 10 miles. You will pass over a concrete bridge, after which you will notice a nice dirt parking area off the road to your right. Cross the street and look for a well-worn, narrow path. This path will lead you straight to the falls.

Trail Length: Very short
Trail Difficulty: Easy