Hiking Field Guide of the NRV

Apple Orchard Falls is a 5.6 mile round trip hike that has an elevation gain of 1,680 feet.  Be prepared to get wet as this trail has 6 stream crossings and will follow along North Creek the entire way.  There are a number of camping spots along the trail just be aware if camping by the falls there will be mist and you may get wet.  The falls themselves are a beautiful 200' in height and can be seen from a wonderful viewing platform placed there in 2000 by the Forestry Service.  This trail was named after the northern red oak forests that densely populate it's summit and ridge line.  As it is a longer trail dogs will be okay to participate but will be wet most of the time, and small children may need to stop frequently.    While there are several ways to actually get to this location the most common is an out and back loop from the parking lot that is wider and easier to climb.  At the falls you will be able to see rhododendron, turtle head, mountain fetter bush, trillium, bleeding heart, and snowy orchis just to name a few of the many wildflowers located here.  For safety keep in mind that each bridge at the stream crossings will involve a few steps which may be very slippery, and do not attempt to climb past the viewing area to get closer to the falls as the rocks are very slippery as well.