Distance: 2.0 mile (loop)
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Change: Gain, 268 feet; loss, 268 feet
Source: Great Day Hikes of North Carolina’s Mountains – to – Sea Trail
It was great to get back to the 40 Hike Challenge. Since I have completed most of the challenge’s day hikes in Western North Carolina, I have had to do some strategic planning to get to the hikes further east. With Fall finally starting to arrive and after waiting out a week of rain, it was exciting to have a weekend to explore portions of our great state that I have never seen. Hike #17, The Cascades Preserve, is situated just outside of Greensboro in Segment 8 of the MST.
This portion of the MST is one of the first trails that hikers will see after a long portion of hiking on roads. Currently, it is the first trail after leaving Hanging Rock State Park (about 33 trail miles).
The day hike is actually a loop, so it leaves the MST in one portion and circles back to the parking lot. After leaving the parking lot and crossing the road (Goodwill Church Rd), the hike soon meets up with the Falling waters Trail.
The trail is well maintained with several bench areas for resting and enjoying the quiet of the woods. It is also well blazed, but since it is a loop, I would recommend taking the day hike guide with you so you do not get turned around. Also, it would not be difficult to complete this small MST trail portion by continuing about 0.5 miles on the MST to Haw River Rd.
I was curious when I read about this hike and the cascades. I will admit that the pictures do not do them justice and it is worthwhile to see them up close and in person. They are not waterfalls, but a gentle downward sloping stream. ( I know…. sounds like a waterfall.)
I had the pleasure of getting to hike with my wife, Kimberly. It is always an “extra adventure” & joy to be in her company.
There were not many people out on the path and it was comforting to see some of the leaves beginning to change colors and to hear some crunching under our feet – Fall is coming!
