Tomkins Knob to Casades A Short Walk on a Long Register

Date and Time:
Thu, Mar 19, 2026; 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM  (Eastern)

Organized By: Blue Ridge Group (NC)

Location: MP 273 Blue Ridge Pkwy, Purlear, NC 28665, USA

Map | Directions

Short Walk on a Long Trail - Mountains to Sea Trail Tomkins Knob to Cascades

This easy classic hike includes Appalachian history with stops at the Jesse Brown log cabin, the circuit preachers meeting house, and a historic natural spring house. Hikers will reinter the forest for 1/2 mile to the E.B. Jeffress Park, scenic overlook, and the Cascades Falls. This hike is an out and back hike of about 2.4 miles with an elevation gain of 253 ft.

The outing leader is a MST trail keeper and will share history and insights about the trail. Mountains to Sea Trail continues north from the Jeffress park following the creek until it splits from the Cascades Trail. Hikers have an option to walk down to the Cascades view or explore further north along the MST from this point. There are 25 steep stone steps down and back up from the Waterfall if chosen.

• The hike will begin at 1:00 from the parking area for Tomkins Knob Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 273 and head north on the Mountains to Sea Trail. This is considered an easy trail with a short section of moderate incline. The expected return to Tomkins Knob Overlook to complete at 4:00.
• The Cascades Park MP 272 will be the mid-point and could be used as a shuttle location for anyone wishing to half the distance. This is considered an easy trail with a short section of moderate incline.

Cost: No Fee

Bring: Appropriate clothing including sturdy shoes, rain gear, cold weather gear should worn. Bring at least 1 liter of water.

Signup Restrictions: Dogs must be well behaved and on a leash at all times. Pickup after your pup and pack it out. Minors (under 18) must be accompanied by an supervising adult.

Carpool: Participants not making the round trip should arrange for car pooling partners. Sierra Club does not provide shuttles.

Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.

Cancellation Policy: Check your email the morning of the hike for unexpected changes or cancellation.