Little Bradley Falls in Saluda, NC

When embarking on the trail to explore the Little Bradley Falls in Saluda, we planned to have a quick, 2-mile out-and-back hike. Little did we know what an adventurous trip it would turn out to be.

We found ourselves way off course on the trail, backtracked to the trailhead, crossed the creek twice, ducked under fallen trees, crossed narrow, rocky sections, trekked through the mud, and were caught in the rain on our way back. It was a challenging hike but worth every second. The falls were epic. And you can get really close to them to enjoy the view and feel the tiny drops of water on your skin.

It's one of those trails that start right on the side of the road. The trail is well-traveled, and the markers on the trees (red paint and orange flagging tape) will also help you navigate the trail to the falls. However, those markers are significantly less visible in some places. So if you are new to this trail, you could easily miss them in the beginning. That's exactly what happened to us. We missed the first creek crossing and took the wrong turn at the fork in the trail.

Little Bradley Falls Trail

There are two trails at the trailhead. The lower one to the right that goes along Cove Creek, and another that goes left and up the hill. Go left and up the hill and follow the red blazes to stay on the trail.

Little Bradley Falls Trail in Saluda, NC

After about 0.5 miles, you reach the fork in the trail. Take a sharp right straight to the small creek below. There wasn't any post signs indicating the direction to the falls. So pay attention to the red blaze and orange tape on the trees.

That will be your first stream crossing. When we visited in December, the water level was low, so we rock-hopped over it without getting our feet wet.

Continue for about 0.2 miles to reach another, larger creek crossing. This one could be more challenging to navigate. The water is deeper here and the rocks you feel like stepping on are spaced further apart. We had to look for the section where the creek gets narrower with some rocks to bear our weight. We found a way to cross it by stepping on rocks, barely avoiding getting our feet wet.

Little Bradley Falls Trail–Cove Creek in Saluda, NC

The trail then becomes steeper. Continue along the slope. Shortly after, you will come across a boulder field. As with many things in life, it seems harder to cross than it really is. However, watch your footing through this area, as it can be slippery.

Some sections are muddy. You will need some balancing foot work skills to get through.

We got to see some really cool exposed roots.

As the trail continues, you will pass the remains of an old brick structure on your left. Shortly after, you should be able to hear the sound of the falling water. Then the trail opens, and you can see the falls peeking through the woods.