Julian Price Memorial Park

The easy 2.2-mile Price Lake Trail offers continuous lake views and lush forest paths within Julian Price Memorial Park.

This combined route offers a fantastic journey through the diverse landscapes of Julian Price Memorial Park, blending the rugged beauty of Hebron Colony Falls with the serene vistas of Price Lake. You'll traverse lush forests, navigate rock outcrops, and witness water cascading through a dramatic boulder garden at the falls, then transition to peaceful lakeside paths with views of Grandfather Mountain. The trail winds through dense rhododendron thickets and past marshy areas where beaver activity might be visible, providing a rich and varied experience for hikers.

To tackle this adventure, head to Julian Price Memorial Park, where the Boone Fork Trailhead is near the picnic area at Milepost 296.4. The Price Lake Loop can be accessed from nearby overlooks. This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) hike, with 586 feet (179 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes. Be prepared for varied terrain, including potentially muddy sections on the Boone Fork Trail and slippery rocks near the falls, even on dry days.

This route is an excellent choice for hikers seeking a comprehensive experience of the park's natural features, from dramatic waterfalls to tranquil lake scenery. The Boone Fork Trail is known for its unique ancient lake bed and diverse flora, while Price Lake is a hub for recreational activities like fishing and kayaking, making it a popular spot for families. The combination provides a dynamic blend of challenging forest paths and accessible lakeside strolls, showcasing the best of Watauga County's outdoor offerings.

This route combines the tranquil Price Lake Loop with an adventurous trek to Hebron Colony Falls, offering a diverse hiking experience near the Blue Ridge Parkway. You'll enjoy serene lakeside views, dense forest, and the unique Hebron Rock Colony, where a 25-foot waterfall cascades over massive boulders. The terrain varies from mostly flat and rooty around the lake to more rugged and rocky on the way to the falls, providing a dynamic journey through the landscape.

Access to both parts of this hike is from Julian Price Memorial Park, located along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Parking is available at designated overlooks and the picnic area, but be aware that spots fill up quickly on busy weekends, so an early start is recommended. Remember that parking along Old Turnpike Road is prohibited. This area is family-friendly, with picnic facilities and even kayak rentals on Price Lake during summer.

Hebron Rock Colony is a true natural wonder of the High Country, making the effort to reach Hebron Colony Falls well worth it. The overall route is rated moderate, covering 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with 515 feet (157 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes. It’s a great option if you want to experience both the popular beauty of Price Lake and the more secluded, rugged charm of the falls.