Jumping Fish Falls
!
Jumping Fish Falls is scenic little waterfall in Raven Rock State Park that makes a nice hiking destination. It’s a good place to bring the kids. It won’t win any rewards for size, but neither will any other waterfall in Piedmont North Carolina.
(014D_115177)
Driving Directions
The trailhead is in an isolated section of the park on the north side of Cape Fear River. You can reach it by following US 421 a short distance north of Lillington and turning left on Christian Light Road. Follow the road a short distance and turn left on River Road (SR 1418). (I did not record exact mileages from Lillington to this point.) River Road changes to gravel at 0.9 miles and reaches a large parking area on the left at 1.5 miles.
Hiking Directions
Note: I’ve not visited the waterfall since late 2014. Access conditions may have changed since then.
Quick Glance
Follow West Bridle loop trail to the falls.
Detailed Look
West Bridle Loop Trail begins to the right of the information kiosk. Before you begin, study the kiosk for proper trail etiquette in case you encounter horses. The trail is easily followed, descending gradually to a ford of the creek. Jumping Fish Falls is a few yards upstream from the ford. You’ll want to cross the creek and go up the river-right side. In above-normal flow, you might get your feet wet while crossing.
| Accessibility: | Hiking trail |
| County: | Harnett |
| River Basin: | Cape Fear |
| Watercourse: | Avents Creek |
| Watershed: | Very small |
| Type and Height: | Cascading falls about 5 feet high Height estimated. |
| Landowner: | Raven Rock State Park |
| Beauty Rating: | 4 |
| Elevation: | 135 feet |
| USGS Map: | Mamers |
| Hike Difficulty: | Moderate |
| Hike Distance: | About 0.6 miles |
| Waterfall GPS: | 35.48122, -78.91025 |
| Trailhead GPS: | 35.48344, -78.90395 |
