The Valle Crucis Park Stream

The creek in the Valle Crucis park is one of the main attractions surrounding the park. From tubing and swimming in the warmer seasons, sitting on the benches overlooking the stretch of the river, and fishing responsibly year-round, this stream has it all! The headwater that feeds into this creek is the Watauga River, and it is most known for family recreation and conservation of its wildlife. In late September 2024, Hurricane Helene came through the Valle Crucis area and wreaked havoc on the river itself. Luckily, due to the amazing Valle Crucis community, the creek was able to be restored to its former state. Standing at the entrance of the park is a building representing a high-water mark from where the water of the creek flooded during the storm. 

 The Watauga River Stretch Along Rominger Road 

The Watauga River is known for fly fishing, rafting, hiking, and swimming. But for someone living in the area as a full-time resident, it's easy to overlook how the Watauga River is all around us. At times, the Watauga River is a calm babbling brook in the local parks, or even a roaring beast only the brave dare to traverse upon. Whatever form it may be, there is an undeniable beauty in all of the Watauga River's shapes. 

Trash Can Falls

Laurel Creek Falls, more commonly known as Trash Can Falls, is a hidden gem in the Appalachian area. Trash Can Falls originally got its name from a dumpster that used to be located in the parking lot, but over the years, the series of waterfalls got so popular that it doesn't take a dumpster to know where it is anymore. Famous for its tall heights and the scenery of it all, Trash Can Falls is a great place to visit during the summer as a fun swimming hole. Unruly wooden planks to travel across sketchy areas and old rope swings are definitely some unprecedented features to keep in mind while visiting. Other than that, the falls provide a great experience for adrenaline junkies looking to jump off the surrounding rocks into the deep pool below. The scenic beauty of it all is one of the main driving points for why this waterfall is so popular among Boone residents. 

The Black Hole Waterfalls 

Known to the locals in the area as "The Black Hole," this waterfall is a secret treasure to all those living in the Rominger area. With a series of waterfalls all starting from the very top of the road to the bottom of it, every single one is a sight to see. The Black Hole is the most popular out of all the waterfalls, known for the width of the rock walls and the deep pool below it. The waterfall gets its name from the black hole-like illusion the water makes at the base of the falls. While this waterfall isn't very well known, it's a great place to visit for swimming, sightseeing, and fishing.