The Indian Creek Trail - Hanging Rock State Park - Danbury, NC
“People do not decide their futures, they decide their habits and their habits decide their futures.” - F. Mathias Alexander
“And if I asked you to name all the things that you love, how long would it take for you to name yourself?” - Megan M. Riley
The Story -
On a recent Saturday morning, Amelia, Alex, Ginger, Sophie, and I hiked eight miles on the enchanting Indian Creek Trail in Hanging Rock State Park, nestled near the picturesque town of Danbury, North Carolina. Over the course of our eight-mile hike, we were captivated by the trail's two stunning waterfalls and numerous smaller cascades, fascinating flora, multiple creek crossings, and challenging rock hops.
We accessed the Indian Creek Trail from the Dan River access parking area at the north end of Hanging Rock State Park. And although the Dan River parking area requires a longer drive, it is far less crowded than the Park’s main parking area and also generally has a lot fewer people on the trails. The unique Riverbluffs Trail is also accessed from this area and the Indian Creek Trail actually includes a section of the Riverbluffs Trail pictured above.
Sections of the Indian Creek Trail include wooden boardwalks over small creeks and ditches through dense forests and green fields.
The Indian Creek Trail has at least nine creek crossings, some over man-made rock bridges yet most over flat rocks that may or may not be submerged under water depending on the amount of rain in the area recently. No matter, come prepared to get your feet wet.
The Indian Creek Trail passes by an old long-abandoned cabin perfect for exploring and taking photos.
The first waterfall on the trail, Window Falls. This picture of Amelia was taken behind “the window” after a modest rock scramble.
We spotted numerous Blue-tailed Skinks along the trail. This one in particular seemed to like having its picture taken and didn’t scurry away almost immediately like the others.
The second waterfall, Hidden Falls. This waterfall is fun because you can actually walk behind and through it!
The majority of the Indian Creek Trail runs beside the Creek with many small cascades and several areas of downed trees crossing over the creek. I was tempted to test my balance on this one, yet smartly opted not to.
I always like when my son Alex joins us for our hikes. He is a faster hiker than I am and I have to work extra hard to keep up with him. When he does slow down, I usually try to get a picture or two together and this one turned out well. Even if he hikes mostly ahead of me, it is wonderful just to do something together and spending time with him.
The start and the end of the out-and-back Indian Creek Trail take you by an enormous bluff on the Riverbluffs Trail.
Sassafras and Skinks