Pam's Grotto is a fantastic waterfall that is easily accessible with a short, hike.
To get to the trail head, turn RIGHT onto Highway 123 out of Haw Creek campground and go .5 miles. At .5 miles, turn right, onto a small turnoff that heads down next to Haw Creek. There is a small campsite and parking area here.
To get to the trail, cross Highway 123 and you'll see the trail on the other side of the highway. This isn't an "official" trail, so there is no real trail marker, but it is well-maintained. There may also be a pink ribbon tied to a tree to draw attention to the trail.
Once you find the trail, head down from the road and start hiking. The trail will immediately turn to your right and begin going UP a pretty steep hill. This part of the trail is very well maintained as it is used regularly by rock climbers who use the area.
At .25, the trail will get up to the rock climbing bluffs and split. Turn LEFT here. The other trails will lead to different rock climbing areas, but the one to the left will take you to the falls. The trail will follow along the bluff line for awhile and the bluff line provides some interesting views for the duration of the hike.
Then, after another .25, the trail begins to decend sharply. At this point, the rail scrambles through a lot of old rocks that have fallen from the bluff over the years -- just find the easiest way down. At the bottom, you'll be in a very scenic and interesting little grotto that has the a 37' tall waterfall flowing into it.
This really is a neat little waterfall that tumbles into a small pool and is very protected with an overhanging bluff line, large bluffs on two sides, and some other large boulders that hide it from view.
Plan to spend some time here and enjoy the peaceful setting. When you're done, go back UP to the trail, follow the bluffs back, and then back down to your parking area.
Key Info:
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Footwear: Trail Shoes or Hiking Boots
Kids: Older kids will be fine, probably not suitable for youngsters
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
This is a wet-weather waterfall, so visit it in the winter or spring and not at the end of summer or early fall.
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