Saluda, North Carolina, is a hiker’s paradise with its lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and scenic trails. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a pleasant walk in nature, Saluda offers something for everyone. This guide will introduce you to some of the best trails in the area, providing details on each trail’s features, distance, and directions.
Pearson’s Falls and Glen
An easy, out-and-back trail featuring a 90-foot waterfall.
Total distance: 0.5 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: This trail leads to a stunning 90-foot waterfall, accessible via a scenic path adorned with wildflowers, mosses, boulders, and spring-fed streams. The site is managed by the Tryon Garden Club. Note that no dogs are allowed and there is a small fee for adults.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, drive 3 miles east on Main St./Hwy 176. Turn right on Pearson Falls Road, go 1 mile, and the preserve is on the left. Alternatively, take Pearson Falls Road from Saluda (just past Wildflour Bakery), travel 2.8 miles on a gravel road, through a one-car tunnel. The preserve is on the right.
Melrose Falls
A moderate, out-and-back trail with steep drop-offs.
Total distance: 1 mile
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: The trail splits about 0.1 miles in; take the left path. After 0.4 miles, it splits again, leading to a rocky cliff overlooking the 50+ foot Melrose Falls. Caution is advised due to steep drop-offs and the terrain is not suitable for small children. The land is protected by Conserving Carolina.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, drive 4.3 miles east on Hwy 176 and park between the two bridges. The trail starts on the right side of the road.
Missing 40
A loop trail set in the Pacolet River Gorge.
Total distance: 1 mile
Trail Type: Loop
Features: This trail begins at the convergence of Joels Creek and the North Pacolet River, follows the river, and includes two ankle-high water crossings. The trail is marked with white blazes and maintained by the Saluda Community Land Trust.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, travel east on Main Street for 0.2 miles and turn right on Pearson Falls Road. Continue for 1.7 miles on a gravel road through a one-car tunnel. The trailhead is on the right side of the road, 0.2 miles from the tunnel.
Norman Wilder Forest
A moderate out-and-back trail with a strenuous climb.
Total distance: 2.8 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: This 185-acre preserve features diverse flora and fauna. The trail forks after 1 mile; take a moderate hike to Drip Falls or a more strenuous climb to a 50-foot rock cliff with scenic views. The land is protected by Conserving Carolina.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, drive 5.3 miles east on US 176. The parking lot and trail entrance are on the left side of the road.
Bradley Nature Preserve/Lazy Girl Loop
An easy out-and-back trail near downtown Saluda.
Total distance: 2 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: This easy walk through the woods near downtown Saluda connects to the Lazy Girl Loop and Laurel Drive. There are two shallow stream crossings. The land is maintained by the Saluda Community Land Trust.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, travel 0.75 miles to the intersection of Esseola Street and Substation Road. Park along the road or walk from downtown.
Judd’s Peak Overlook
A moderate loop trail with mountain views.
Total distance: 0.3 miles
Trail Type: Loop
Features: This trail offers beautiful mountain and foothill views atop Judd’s Peak. Descend the Summit Trail to an old forest and return the same way. The property is maintained by the Saluda Community Land Trust.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, turn right on Greenville Street, which becomes Mountain Page Road at the county line. Turn right on Pace Mountain Road, immediately turn right on Judd’s Peak Road, then right on Orchard Hill and slightly left into “Judd’s Peak Overlook.” The total distance from the Visitor Center is 2 miles.
Little Bradley Falls
A moderate out-and-back trail with two stream crossings.
Total distance: 2 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: This trail leads to a 50-foot, multi-tiered waterfall. The path includes two stream crossings and some scrambling over downed trees and boulders, with steep drop-offs. The trail ends at the falls, and the land is part of the Green River Game Lands owned by the State of North Carolina.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, travel 4.7 miles east on Main Street for 0.5 miles and turn left on Ozone Drive. Continue for 1.1 miles to Holbert Cove Road. Travel 3.1 miles on Holbert Cove Road.
Green River Cove Trail
A moderate out-and-back trail along the Green River.
Total distance: 6.5 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: The trail follows the Green River through a secluded forest. After 2.75 miles, it intersects with Pulliam Trail. Stay left and follow the blue blazes to a view of the Green River narrows.
Directions: From Saluda Visitor Center, travel east on Main Street for 0.5 miles and turn left on Ozone Drive. Continue for 1.3 miles and turn left on Green River Cove Road. Follow the road for 3.8 miles and park along the road.
Palmetto Trail – Saluda Mountain Portion
A beautiful out-and-back trail, especially scenic in the fall.
Total distance: 3.3 miles
Trail Type: Out and back
Features: This segment of the Palmetto Trail offers a scenic hike through dense forests, highlighted by vibrant fall foliage. The well-marked path provides opportunities to enjoy local wildlife and serene natural surroundings. Part of the larger Palmetto Trail system, it connects to various other scenic trails.
Directions: From the Saluda Visitor Center, head east on W Main St 200 feet, then turn right onto Greenville St for 1.1 miles. Slight left onto Old Mountain Page Rd for 1.3 miles. Finally, turn left onto Mountain Page Rd and continue for 1.1 miles to your destination on the left, there is a small parking lot, trail head is across the street.
Saluda Community Land Trust
For more information on the conservation effort, trail information and guided walks, you can visit Saluda Community Land Trust Website This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preserving Saluda’s rural character by preserving farm and forest land in and around Saluda. The mission of the Saluda Community Land Trust (SCLT) includes protecting natural resources, supporting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing the quality of life for current and future generations.