Boulder Gorge Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

This short run hits all the highlights of Moss Rock, taking runners on a tour of everything from rock formations to sandstone glades to the highest waterfall in the park.

From the parking area by Simmons Middle School on Patton Chapel Road (look for the signs for Moss Rock), start on the Orange Trail. The trailhead is located at the back of the parking lot. From here, the trail climbs steadily but gradually up through the gorge toward the waterfall.

At the first junction, turn right on the Orange Trail passing by shoals on Hurricane Creek and boulders along the banks of the stream. You'll climb gradually on this section of the Orange Trail which is mostly level as it follows along the stream; stay to the right at the junction with the Orange Loop Trail.

At just about a mile, you'll come to a four-way intersection; continue straight to head to High Falls. This waterfall is the highest waterfall in the area, and after recent rains is a lovely place for photos.

After taking in the scenery, take the Orange Loop Trail across the creek. Here, the trail winds through the woods passing over Natural Bridge, a small natural bridge and continuing by the rock formations of Rock House Boulders before rejoining the original Orange Trail segment you started on.

Longleaf pines, hardwoods, mountain laurel