Three miles south of the picturesque town of Saluda, there's a 268-acre glen that is home to a North Carolina National Heritage Site. Welcome to a gem known as Pearson's Falls.
It was named for the young engineer, Charles William Pearson, who scouted the mountains for what became the Southern Railroad. A military man, farmer, and engineer, Captain Pearson bought the glen as a part of a large tract of land that he wanted for his family. For years, he and his heirs allowed generations of young people to picnic on the great stone table-rock at the foot of the falls.
In 1931, the Tryon Garden Club purchased the property through the generosity of an honorary member, visionary club members, and careful planning. The property remains privately held and maintained by the Club, and they host visitors year-round.
A small admission fee is collected as you enter the park, and that money is used for maintaining this beautiful corner of the Blue Ridge. One small note, there are no pets allowed in the park, so leave your four-legged friends at home.
You start your journey from the parking lot and walk along the creek on the well-maintained trails. The lower level at the base of the glen features little pools and tiny falls that provide so much character along the way.
This place is beautiful year-round, but on a fall day, it's especially spectacular. There are 35 species of trees here, not to mention 13 species of ferns and 190 species of wildflowers. There is so much to take in beyond the majestic waterfall itself.
The breathtaking, 90-foot cascade is one of the tallest in North Carolina. As you cross the footbridge, your eyes climb to the top, taking in the colors and the crashing water along the way.
Something good for the soul happens in places like these -- quiet places where only the sounds of nature speak to you. It's a time to take a breath, take a pause, and experience everything around you.
When you're ready to visit Pearson's Falls, head to PearsonsFalls.org, and then go to Saluda to witness this beautiful place firsthand. Your weekend is waiting on the Ingles Open Road.
To learn more about Ingles Markets, visit their website at ingles-markets.com.