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| Window Falls at Hanging Rock State Park © Katrena |
Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury, North Carolina, offers hiking trails to five different waterfalls. The trail to Window Falls is shared by two other one-way trails. The Hidden Falls trail shares this trail for 0.4 mile; Window Falls is located 0.2 mile past Hidden Falls. Folks who want to continue hiking below the waterfall can continue on the 1.3 mile one-way moderate Indian Creek Trail just below Window Falls.
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| Window Falls Moderate Hiking Trail at Hanging Rock in Danbury © Katrena |
The mileage for this one-way trail to Window Falls is 0.6 mile. The last 0.2 mile of the Window Falls hiking trail is a moderate hike with more rocks, elevation changes, and several steps to navigate when compared to the first 0.4 mile portion of the trail leading up to Hidden Falls. The hike to Window Falls is not handicap accessible (see photo above). Entry into Hanging Rock State Park and its hiking trails are free.
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| View of the Natural "Window" (near center of pix) at Hanging Rock State Park © Katrena |
This waterfall has several unique features that make it one of my favorite hikes. As you come in sight of the waterfall, you will be able to see a large hole in the rock face just beyond the fence, hence the name Window Falls. If you peer through this natural "window," you can see another waterfall above the main waterfall.
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| Standing Under Window Falls at Hanging Rock State Park in NC © Katrena |
Look to the left of the fence and you'll see some steps that will take you closer to Window Falls. This spot is especially fun because folks can cross Indian Creek below the waterfall and walk right under and behind the falling water. It is sort of like a natural shower. The water tends to be pretty chilly, which can be quite refreshing in hot summer months. We hiked here in July 2016 when it was 95 degrees. Whew!
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| View From Behind Window Falls at Hanging Rock © Katrena |
The water pools in a few areas below the waterfall, and I've often seen children and adults playing in those pools. I suggest packing extra clothes so they can be dry on the road back. There's something about a waterfall trail that tends to get the kiddos a little wet! If you have tiny hikers, I would suggest a baby backpack or sling because it would be very difficult to navigate a stroller on this trail.
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| Hanging Rock State Park - Window Falls © Katrena |
The hike back is pretty much all uphill with the steepest grade the 0.2 mile near Window Falls. It is a good idea to pack plenty of drinking water and a snack, making sure to leave nothing but footprints behind. The trail is bordered by a variety of trees. Ensure that everyone in your group is wearing good hiking shoes before heading to this trail. This is not a flip flop or sandal kind of hike.
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| Close-up of Natural Window at Window Falls in Hanging Rock State Park © Katrena |
Discover more about Hanging Rock State park, including hours, programs, and directions at the
Hanging Rock State Park web site.
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| Waterfall Behind the Window at Hanging Rock © Katrena |
Additional articles by Katrena
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| View from the Top of Window Falls © Katrena |
I hope you enjoy my articles on
Travel NC With Kids! Have you hiked to Window Falls? Feel free to share your experience in the comments section beneath this article.
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