Laurel Creek Falls
US Highway 321, Sugar Grove, NC 28679
Laurel Creek Falls is a popular waterfall trail and swimming hole on the Watauga River. A short path across the street from the parking area will take you to the lower falls. Make sure to descend carefully, the path is extremely steep and rocks can be slippery and dangerous. Continue on the path to get to the upper falls.
Directions: From the intersection of US 321 and US 421 in downtown Boone, head north on US 321/421 for 6.4 miles. Take a left when the highway splits, and continue on US 321 north for 5.4 miles. Just after US 321 crosses the river, there is a gravel parking area on the right, which provides access to the unmarked trail on the left.
Ensure your entire vehicle is off the road so it does not create a traffic hazard. Vehicles in the road will be towed! Additional parking is a short walk away at the Upper Watauga Gorge Park - cross Old Watauga River Road and carefully walk alongside US 321 for 0.02 miles to reach the trail.