The most magical little trail in the Triad area happens to start and end at a picturesque winery. This fun little Winery Hike in Elkin NC is a must on a nice day!
If this hiking experience hasn’t made its way onto your bucket list, then here is your sign! This trip makes for a perfect Sunday afternoon, outdoor date, girl time, or even a fun solo adventure.
Take a hike through the winding wooded trail and under the cover of magical-feeling pine trees to a waterfall set back in the woods. With glittering clear water and tranquil sounds, You can stick your toes in the water up top or take the exciting journey down a short and steep path to the bottom shore.
Start at Grassy Creek Winery and find your way to the well-marked trailhead. On your journey, you will pass the sweetest little gnome houses, wind through viney oak trees, and walk under the cover of the pines. You will feel immediately like you’ve stumbled upon a secret realm. Keep your eyes peeled as you pass the small ponds and cross roadways. You will find fun little things placed on the ground and in trees by past visitors, adding to the mystical feeling of the beautiful woods.
The trail from the winery meets up with the Carter Trail only 0.5 miles from the waterfall, where you can make your way down the natural steps to the top of the fall. Keep going down the trail to find a steep path with a rope to help you get to the bottom. We made it down with the dog, no problem, but I wouldn’t recommend taking grandma down!
Once you’ve enjoyed your time by the water, you can make your way back on the trail to finish out your day with a glass of wine and a solid 3.8-mile hike under your belt.
This is a fairly easy trail for any hiker. You will find uneven ground, rocky paths, bridges to cross, and divots to step over. This trail may not be accessible for all.
Grassy Creek Winery’s taproom sits up the hill from their acres of grapevines, where visitors can see the mountains in the distance and will feel at peace in the seclusion of the vineyard. The taproom offers $16 flights of five wines or wine by the glass and bottle. They also offer beers on tap for those not interested in wine!
I was a big fan of all three semi-sweet wines they had available and a delicious dessert wine. We brought our own charcuterie and sat under the pergola enjoying the sun. The vineyard is dog-friendly and has lots of indoor and outdoor seating.
Happy trails!
NC Winery Hike, The Details:
- Park at Grassy Creek Winery in any of their designated spots.
- Walk towards the grape vines and you will see the trail map and markers signaling the start of your journey.
- Be sure to pack water and snacks!
- Byrd’s Branch Campground and Country Store has a restroom for hikers. You can purchase water or snacks to refuel half way to your destination.
- Your hike will lead you across the parking lot to the falls where you will follow the Carter Trail 0.5 miles to the water!
- You’ve made it!
- You can continue down the marked trail and will find a path going down to the bottom of the fall with a rope railing for support. It is the perfect spot to have a snack or dip your toes in!
- After you’ve enjoyed the falls, head back up the trail to the winery and enjoy a flight!
One thought on “The Most Mystical Trail in North Carolina: Winery Hike in the NC Triad”