Glen Burney Falls and Glen Marie Falls

If you're seeking a rewarding waterfall hike with a dose of rugged terrain, the Glen Burney Falls – Glen Marie Falls loop from Blowing Rock delivers. This moderate 4.1-mile (6.7 km) route plunges into the Johns River Gorge, following New Year's Creek past "The Cascades" and the impressive Glen Burney Falls, before culminating at the 75-foot, three-tiered Glen Marie Falls. Expect a lush, craggy forest environment, especially vibrant with rhododendrons in spring and summer, but be ready for a demanding climb back out.

Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, as the trailhead is conveniently located just steps from downtown Blowing Rock. While the descent offers continuous water features and serene sounds, the return journey involves a strenuous 691 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain over roughly 2 hours and 1 minutes, so good fitness is a must. Be aware that sections can be wet and slippery, particularly near the falls, and caution is advised on the eroded paths.

What makes this one of the most popular trails in Blowing Rock, NC, is its unique blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, including "The Ruins" of an early 20th-century sewage treatment plant. Despite its urban proximity, the Glen Burney Falls – Glen Marie Falls loop offers a genuinely immersive and rugged experience in a deep river gorge, making it a standout among Blowing Rock hiking trails with waterfalls.