Blowing Rock has long been defined by its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, and the Glen Burney Trail, beginning in the center of town, follows New Year's Creek as its waters descend the mountain to the Johns River and eventually the Atlantic at Charleston. Used for many years by Native American hunters and later as access to early 1900's logging camps, this ancient trail leads hikers to three waterfalls. The 33 acres encompassing the trail were originally purchased by Emily Prudden, founder of 15 schools, including the Skyland Institute for Girls, which stood on this land. Along the route are the remnants of one of the first modern sewage treatment systems in the mountains, built in 1929. The hike passes the 30' Cascades Falls, then the 50' Glen Burney Falls, and finally the 75' Glen Marie Falls, with a total elevation change of more than 800 feet over a three-mile round trip.

Photo: Duane and Tracy Marsteller

Blowing Rock, North Carolina · USA