5 must-see waterfalls near Raleigh, NC for outdoor lovers
Are you looking for new outdoor activities to spice up the fall months? If you haven't taken a dive into the spectacular waterfalls near Raleigh, NC, it's time to readjust your outdoor itinerary.
Waterfalls soothe the body and mind, and scientific research proves that simply being near the water can boost your mental health by giving you a sense of mindfulness.
Whether you're new to the Triangle area or have lived here all of your life, you still may not fully realize how many accessible waterfalls in the Raleigh, NC area there actually are.
Are you ready to add some waterfall magic to your life? Read on to learn everything you need to know about five must-see waterfalls near Raleigh, and before long you'll be hiking with waterfalls regularly!
1. Lassiter Mill Park Dam
Lassiter Mill Park is home to a gorgeous waterfall that was once created for an old mill. The dam itself is where Crabtree Creek flows through, and you can still see remnants of the old working mill.
The site was originally known as the "Great Falls of Crabtree" and was used by various mills before Raleigh even came to be. History buffs will enjoy the plaque by the water banks that details the mill's history.
The secret to Lassiter Mill Park is it's not just in Raleigh, it's actually a gem secretly hiding in plain sight in a Raleigh neighborhood. You'll find it at the intersection of Lassiter Mill Road and Lassiter Falls Circle.
It's a wonderful park to visit for a picnic and waterfall adventure. It's an easy place to simply sit and reflect, and no preparations are needed to visit. Check out this video to learn more about it before you go.
2. Historic Yates Mill County Park
Historic Yates Mill County Park is a historical 174-acre park in Raleigh that's home to a beautiful waterfall steeped in history.
The Yates Mill was a water-powered mill that was a key part of Wake County for well over 200 years. It was a social and economic meeting point for all residents from early colonial times to the 1900s. The mill was responsible for grinding corn and wheat into flour.
This was particularly important for rural areas as mills like this also served as gathering places where people would swim, fish, and have picnics.
Today you can still see the old waterwheel, flume, and waterfall, and enjoy plenty of hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking. The Millpond Trail is a mile in length and consists of a gravel pathway to the mill and a boardwalk.
It also serves as the perfect backdrop for any type of picture, so if you're into taking nature pictures, this is the perfect spot.
3. Juniper Level Botanic Garden
Juniper Level Botanic Garden is like a magical secret garden, complete with a hidden waterfall that opened for weekend sessions in September. Keep in mind that the park is open on varying days during each season, and after September, you'll have to plan your winter visits accordingly.
The garden consists of almost 30 acres of rare and exotic plants from all over the world and was established in 1986. This non-profit garden is dedicated to research and education, having over 27,000 taxa of plants, such as exotic plants and native perennials. You can even buy plants from the nursery during specific times of the year.
The waterfall flows beautifully over large rocks into a pool and becomes even more magical when temperatures get cold enough to send it into a deep freeze. It may not be one of the biggest waterfalls, but it's just as magical all the same and well worth visiting.
4. Little River Park
If you're feeling a little blue for the beach and want to see a waterfall too, you'll want to head to Little River Park. This beautiful park is located just four miles from the city of Durham.
It's a cooperative project that receives significant assistance from the Triangle Land Conservancy. It's also the perfect place to see a waterfall and get in touch with nature.
You can dig your toes into the soft sand and listen to the calming sounds of the river flowing. The waterfall here is created by a gristmill damn over the Little River, known as Moore's Mill. It's a shorter waterfall, but makes for a serene view all the same.
If you have kids, there is a large grassy area in the park, which is perfect for them to run around and burn off steam. You can also explore the area around the old damn, but be cautious as the area is slippery and best left for adults to enjoy.
5. West Point on the Eno
West Point on the Eno is like a dream come true for any nature lover, even though it's a city park. It sits just six miles north of downtown Durham, right near the heart of the Research Triangle.
This park goes for 404 acres along the beautiful Eno River, and the waterfall comes from a historical dam, making this park a history lesson too. The waterfall makes for a beautiful site as well as the center for numerous environmental education programs.
After you take in the beauty of the waterfall, you can explore other areas like the West Point Mill, which is a colonial-era mill reproduction and now a museum.
You'll also find the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography packed with historic photographs from the site. The park boasts five miles of trails, making for some perfect hiking spots. It also has picnic facilities, canoe access to the Eno River, and a huge space for children to play.
Don't miss these waterfalls near Raleigh, NC
These waterfalls in Raleigh, NC, are stunning spots that allow you to get in touch with nature and drop the stress of the week, so don't miss out.
Keep researching to add to your waterfall list. There are plenty more around, you just have to be willing to drive a little further.
Head on over to the out & about section at WRAL News to see what else is going on in Raleigh this month. This way you'll be able to pair your waterfall visit with a trip to the pumpkin patch or local fall festival to end the day with a hayride.
