Our Soco Falls Adventure

Last week, we took advantage of the nice spring weather and headed out to see Soco Falls in Cherokee. Even though we’re locals to the area, neither Dillon nor I had ever been. That’s something we’ve been wanting to change, exploring more of the place we call home. So often, as locals, we label places as “tourist traps” and end up overlooking the natural beauty right in front of us. We know the trails, the waterways, and we’ve spent plenty of time in the woods, but sometimes we write off spots that feel too “touristy” and miss out on the experience altogether.

Soco Falls proved us wrong.

We went a little before lunchtime. The trail down is steep, but nothing compared to the climb back up! The falls are less than a mile from the parking area and follow along a creek. Overall, I’d consider it a pretty kid-friendly hike. There’s a really nice viewing deck where you can take in the 120-foot cascade. It did feel a bit crowded at times, but people were constantly coming and going, so we had a stretch where we could fully enjoy it.

There’s also a path that leads down to the base of the double falls, where you have to use a rope to descend. None of us were brave enough to attempt it; I know myself well enough to sit that one out! But it was fun watching others make their way down.

All in all, it was a simple adventure, but one that felt worth it. Making memories and giving our daughter the chance to experience the natural beauty of the place she’s growing up in is really important to us. I’d encourage everyone to get outside more, especially with your kids. We’re all surrounded by screens between work, school, and home, and it’s easy to forget what’s right outside. Instilling a sense of awe, respect, and responsibility for the natural world in the next generation matters.

So get outside this weekend!

Sam Nelson