Hebron Colony Falls – View of Price Lake loop from Blue Ridge Parkway

The Hebron Colony Falls – View of Price Lake loop from Blue Ridge Parkway offers a fantastic blend of serene lakeside walking and a more rugged forest adventure. This moderate hiking route covers 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with 515 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a varied day out that combines popular scenic spots with a bit more challenge.

What to expect on Hebron Colony Falls – View of Price Lake loop from Blue Ridge Parkway

This route isn't a single continuous loop, but rather combines two distinct and rewarding sections. You'll start with the picturesque Price Lake Loop, an easy, mostly flat path encircling the largest lake on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Expect beautiful water views, dense foliage, and perhaps some wildlife like beavers or ducks. The terrain here can be rooty and muddy in spots, with boardwalks and bridges through marshy areas. From there, you'll venture onto a section of the Boone Fork Trail towards Hebron Colony Falls, where the path becomes more rugged, winding through lush forest and alongside a creek. The highlight is Hebron Rock Colony, a unique formation of massive boulders and a 25-foot waterfall, offering a more adventurous feel. This combination is perfect for hikers who appreciate both tranquil scenery and a bit of scrambling around natural features.

Planning your visit

Both sections of this route are accessible from Julian Price Memorial Park along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Price Lake Loop can be accessed from the Price Lake Overlook (Milepost 296.7) or Boone Fork Overlook (Milepost 297.1), while the Boone Fork Trail trailhead is at the Julian Price Memorial Park Picnic Area (Milepost 296.4). Parking is enforced at official entrances, so avoid parking along Old Turnpike Road. This area is very popular, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea to secure a spot. During warmer months, you can even rent kayaks and canoes on Price Lake.

Trail details

• Distance: 5.5 miles (8.9 km)
• Elevation gain: 515 feet (157 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 58 minutes