Celebrate WNC with a hike on the Wilderness Gateway State Trail (afternoon)

Eager to get back to Western North Carolina to explore, but not sure where to go and what trails are open?

On Dec. 14 Valdese Parks and Recreation gives you the chance to both hike and to help a local community affected by Hurricane Helene. At 2 p.m., hike the first – and so far, only – open segment of the Wilderness Gateway State Trail. From the trailhead in McGalliard Falls Park, we will hike past the falls, then downstream along McGalliard Creek and over the 151-foot McGalliard Creek suspension bridge. We’ll continue downstream to Lake Rhodhiss and to in Valdese Lakeside Park for a short break before heading back to McGalliard Faslls Park. Total distance: 4 miles.

This trail is hiker-friendly, with a short series of stone steps at the falls.

Plan to make a day of your visit by dining in one of Valdese’s downtown restaurants (with everything from Mexican and pizza to burgers made with locally grown beef), doing some holiday shopping in one of downtown’s eclectic shops, or visiting a local museum.