Laughing Waters and Hickory Nut Forest

08/12/2026

Laughing Waters Team is deeply thankful to Spokes of Hope and the Amish volunteers who traveled from Pennsylvania to help restore our little corner of the mountains💙💙💙

07/27/2026

Leonora and Seth 💕

07/14/2026

‘What a spirit-refreshing stay! A perfect setting on a waterfall creek in the woods. I love that, in 60 seconds, you can have your feet in water! A gorgeous deck has a view of waterfalls and the sound lulls us to sleep. I guess rushing water is responsible for very few insects present.’

‘The cabin was cozy, clean, well-stocked and comfortable. I appreciate the use of eco-friendly products. Lots of welcoming touches like flowers in every room and a lovely heart drawn in the pile of the blanket.’

06/28/2026

“Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful mountain house with us.
We truly enjoyed our time here and are so grateful for your hospitality.

The peaceful surroundings, fresh mountain air, and quiet moments away from the busyness of everyday life were exactly what we needed.
Sitting on the porch, feet in the creek, taking in God’s creation, and simply slowing down was so good for our souls.

We made wonderful memories together and leaving feeling refreshed, recharged, and thankful.

May God bless you for the blessing you’ve been to others.

We hope to be back soon!!”

Many blessings,
Melissa & Victor

06/14/2026

‘It was a magical day in the Gorge learning from world class naturalists and spending the day with folks that share a passion for exploring the incredible biodiversity of our region. We honed the art of paying attention to collect data that will advance conservation. Thank you MountainTrue and Conserving Carolina ‘

~Alys Campaigne, attendee of the Bio Blitz in the Orchard Laughing Waters , June 13, 2026

Photo and Video Credit: Alys Campaigne and Jules

06/09/2026

Rainy weather couldn’t dampen the spirit of this yoga workshop at Laughing Waters! A week ago, these wonderful ladies spent the weekend connecting, practicing, relaxing, and creating beautiful memories together at a very special place.

05/28/2026

We’re excited to support this year’s Hickory Nut Gorge BioBlitz — a special anniversary year celebrating community science, conservation, and the incredible biodiversity of our mountains! 🦋🌲🐸

Hosted by MountainTrue in partnership with Conserving Carolina, this event brings together nature lovers, scientists, families, and volunteers to explore and document the species that make the Hickory Nut Gorge so unique.

📍 Laughing Waters: 3963 Gerton Hwy, Gerton NC
📅 June 13

Learn more & RSVP here:
🔗 https://mountaintrue.org/event/hickory-nut-gorge-bioblitz-near-gerton-nc-6-13/

Cross-promotion with Conserving Carolina:
🔗 https://conservingcarolina.org/event/hickory-nut-gorge-bioblitz-near-gerton-nc-6-13/

A quick travel note for attendees: due to some recent road erosion in the area, please allow a little extra time for your carpool drive in. At this point, the event is still expected to move forward as planned, and we’ll continue sharing updates as needed.

We’re grateful to be part of a community that cares so deeply for these beautiful mountains. 💚

Join us as we celebrate 10 years of BioBlitzing! Help Conserving Carolina, MountainTrue, and a cadre of expert naturalists as we explore Conserving Carolina preserves and seek to catalogue all of

05/12/2026

We’ve been honored to receive some incredible reviews recently! The cottage continues to be a favorite for a cozy getaway in beautiful nature. Here are a few kind reflections from our guests:

‘Lovely spot. We really enjoyed our stay. Sweet intimate cabin with the wonderful sound of water to relax by!’

‘I absolutely loved it. We loved it so much we extended our stay an extra day. The host was very nice and answered all of our questions.’

‘Awesome place to stay! No TV, no problem....we brought a laptop, but who needs a TV when you have thay much beauty around you! We can’t wait to visit again!’

‘Beautiful, clean, and cozy cottage for two nestled in a secluded pocket of forest next to a soothing stream with little waterfalls. Although still recovering from damage done by hurricane Helene, it still displayed God’s power to restore, and it was a blessing to support the people, shops, and parks in that area! Julia, the host, was so friendly and responded quickly when I texted her! She is an awesome host! There were plenty of activities, restaurants, parks, and shops nearby. My sister and I enjoyed our 3 night stay, and we would definitely stay there again!!!’

05/03/2026

Laughing Waters in Gerton, NC is looking for additional housekeeping help starting in May.

We’re a peaceful, welcoming space, and we truly value those who help us create a warm and comfortable experience for our guests.
If you enjoy working in a calm, nature-filled environment and take pride in creating clean, inviting spaces, we would love to hear from you.
For more details, please email us at [email protected]
We look forward to connecting with you 💛

04/19/2026

Laughing Waters’ community garden in the old apple orchard is looking to share space with some neighbors.. There are several garden beds that are not being used this year by others. If you are looking for a sunny space in Gerton to plant veggies, herbs, and/or flowers, please reach out. You would have your own beds to tend. They are all set up but need to be prepped before planting. Neighbors from Hickory Nut Forest and other parts of the gorge will be gardening in their beds as well. Contact [email protected]. We’d love to have you!