![]() We do not recommend attempting this climb. Be advised that the ascent to these falls is extremely steep and dangerous. Note: There is a third waterfall below Second Falls called Yellowstone Falls. Things to bring along on your journey: camera, binoculars, extra clothes/shoes, food supplies and a desire to explore. If you come in the late Spring you will enjoy the blooming of Rhododendrons, Mtn. Splash around in Yellowstone Prong (the creek that bisects the loop trail) or go for a swim in the deep pool below Second Falls. We also suggest that you pack a picnic lunch with a blanket to spread in a nice grassy area or even creekside on some rocks with the kids. Take this trail (Upper Falls Trail) back to the parking lot, completing your loop hike. When finished at Upper Falls, backtrack until you come to the first bridge on your right. The 2 mile loop is filled with wildflowers and blackberry bushes. Perhaps this area is so popular, because of the wooden walkways and steps that have been placed on the trail. Follow directions for the first hike except that on your return hike stay to the right side of the creek and head towards "Upper Falls" and through the fields for 1.4 miles. The Graveyard Fields Loop Trail (trail 358) is a leisurely hike, with little to no elevation change. The second and longer of the two hikes is for both waterfalls and the fields. For the return hike simply backtrack to the parking lot. 60) to a viewing platform below (avoiding the side trail along the way). you'll see a sign for "Mountains to Sea (trail") and "Lower Falls." Follow this trail for approx. Go over the bridge and take an immediate right and in approx. The first and shortest is to "Second Falls." Take the right set of stairs down from the parking lot (along the paved path) to Yellowstone Prong (creek). We suggest 2 hiking optons within the area. Our suggestion would be to take at least a half day here to take in the area. That is the reason that today you get a field-like area that is a "Graveyard Fields." The 1925 fire burned deeply destroying the soil's nutrients slowing the recovery even more. What you see today is the forest slowly recovering. This fire consumed the forest and the ancient mounds. The forest eventually recovered only to be destroyed by a catastrophic fire in 1925. Over the years the the remaining root stumps and trees rotted leaving behind dirt mounds that resembled a graveyard, and the area has been known as Graveyard Fields ever since. It is said that Graveyard Fields got it's name when a "tremendous wind blow" occurred more than 500 years ago and uprooted the Spruce forest. However, this point of interest is a must when exploring the Parkway, crowd or no crowd. This is one of the most popular spots on the Parkway so beware of a crowded parking area when you arrive, especially in the Spring/Summer months. We recommend Graveyard Fields Trail system to the entire family.
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