The trip to Hen Wallow Falls is a pleasant walk through hemlock and rhododendron forest. A signed side trail leads to the base of the falls by way of steep switchbacks. Hen Wallow Creek, only two feet wide at the top of the falls, fans out to 20 feet at the base. The waterfall is 90 feet high. If you look carefully in the water at the base of the falls, you can often find salamanders.
During very cold winter weather, the waterfall can freeze into a beautiful icy column.
The hike to the falls is 4.4 miles round trip and considered moderate in difficulty. Hikers continuing on the Gabes Mountain Trail beyond the falls can enjoy an impressive old-growth forest.
Trailhead: Park in the designated hiker parking area at the Cosby Picnic Area (near the entrance to the Cosby Campground). then backtrack on foot approximately 100 yards along the road to the signed start of the Gabes Mountain Trail.
Trail Notes: The round trip distance to the waterfall is 4.4 miles and the hike is generally considered moderate in difficulty. It takes about 3-4 hours to hike to the waterfall and back.
The waterfall is located on a short side trail off the Gabes Mountain Trail. there is a wooden sign posted at the turn for this side trail. the short trail down to the waterfall is very steep-sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Carry drinking water with you.
Do not climb on rocks around the waterfall. Over the years, several people have fallen to their deaths and many others have suffered serious injuries from climbing on rocks near waterfalls or along the riverbanks.
Black bears are sometimes active in this area.
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