A unique hiking destination that provides access to a waterfall and cave.
Just off the western edge of Hanging Rock State Park is the unique double hiking destination of Tory’s Den and Falls. This short hiking trail of less than 1/2 mile round trip provides easy access to Tory’s Falls as well Tory’s Den which is a picture perfect cave off to the side of Tory’s falls. This almost one-of-a-kind hike is sure to be a favorite of both kids and adults.
Hanging Rock State Park is a 7,000+ acre hotspot of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery including a number of waterfalls. Located in the Sauratown mountain range, the park supports a number of recreational activities including hiking, biking, camping, swimming, fishing, boating and rock climbing. There is also a visitors center and numerous picnic areas available for use. The park is located about 45 minutes North of Winston-Salem North Carolina.
The trailhead for Tory’s Den is outside the main area of the park on Charlie Young Road. From inside the park you would head out on Hanging Rock Park Road and make left turns until you reach Charlie Young Road. It is about 10 minutes from the visitors center. Look for the signed parking lot on the left. There is plenty of parking available along with a informational sign board that explains the history of the area.
The trail starts out in the corner of the lot, is marked with blue blazes, is in great shape, and easily followed. It is a very short hike with very minimal elevation change; most of which is via well constructed steps. There is a small creek that you cross but there is a bridge over the top of it.
After a short walk, you will reach a fork in the trail where you can decide if you want to go left and view the falls first, or right and view the cave. We went left first and viewed the falls which is only about 50ft from the fork.
The falls are small and will vary greatly depending on the amount of recent rain. However it is a beautiful spot and the rock outcropping where you view the falls is a nice area to sit back, relax a bit, and enjoy the sights and sounds of Tory’s Falls.
Tory’s Den is on the other side of the fork in the trail down a small series of stairs that loop around to the front of the cave.
While Tory’s Den isn’t too deep, it is definitely a cave and very unique. It is very well formed and big enough to walk into. It is a fun destination that you will not want to miss if you are in the area.
Regardless of which spot you hit first, this is an out-and-back hike so head back to the fork and walk up to the parking lot when you are done enjoying the area.