Lower Cascade Falls is a 35-foot waterfall in Hanging Rock State Park. This waterfall flows on Cascade Creek. Another beautiful waterfall on the creek is Upper Cascade Falls.
The parking area is outside the main gate, but the waterfall is in the park boundaries. It’s an asphalt-and-gravel parking lot off Hall Road.
Lower Cascade Falls
The 0.4-mile trail starts at the end of the lot. I would consider it moderately difficult due to the number of stairs. The sand-and-dirt path is well-maintained.
There are wooden steps and a wooden bridge down to a fenced overlook area.
When I visited in spring, the overlook didn’t provide a good viewpoint and the falls were mostly covered by trees.
From the overlook, head down the steep stone steps to the left. This leads to an area full of boulders and flat rocks across from Lower Cascade Falls. This was my favorite waterfall in Hanging Rock State Park! I could have sat on the boulders for hours enjoying the scenery. It would be a perfect spot to forest-bathe, and no I don’t mean splash around in the water.
Cascade Creek flows down into a large pool at the base of the falls. There is a massive overhanding bluff and rock face next to the waterfall which gives the area a unique look and gravitas.
When I visited, people were able to wade in the shallow pool and get closer to the waterfall. At the right edge of the pool, there is another small cascade down the creek.
It does look and sound amazing! Your description sets the tone.
Thanks Charlotte Fine Art! Happy that my amazement came through my words 🙂
These waterfalls and the scenery you posted look like something not to be missed. My bucket list for the Carolinas is almost full to bursting. I’ll see it all soon.
Please let me know as you start planning a trip, I can help you put together a must see itinerary 🙂