Kates Falls Trail

This is barely a hike and entirely a reward. The Kates Falls Trail is a short spur off the Glade Creek Trail, meaning you'll need to walk the Glade Creek path first before branching off to the falls — think of it as an appetizer before the appetizer. The spur itself drops through dense Appalachian hardwood forest, following a narrow, root-laced path that can get slick after rain. The canopy keeps things shaded and cool even in summer. At the end, Kates Falls spills over a mossy rock ledge into a shallow pool — not a thundering giant, but a quiet, photogenic cascade that feels like a secret. The whole detour takes less time than standing in line for coffee. Perfect for families with younger kids, anyone already on Glade Creek who wants a bonus waterfall, or photographers chasing that soft, diffused forest light.