Waterfalls

The Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina are home to many beautiful waterfalls. People travel from all across the country to see them. There are more than 250 falls in our immediate area. Below is a selection to get you started; be sure to read the driving directions, as some falls are most easily visited in sequence.

Please follow these basic rules when visiting waterfalls:

NEVER wade or walk on the rocks above or around waterfalls; even when dry, the rocks can be very slippery, and a slip can be fatal! Admiring waterfalls from a distance is safer and offers better views and photo opportunities
Stay on the marked trail; avoid shortcuts
Stay behind guard rails and heed all caution signs
Tread carefully to avoid stepping on plants and flowers; leave them as you found them for others to enjoy
Dispose of garbage properly
Keep dogs on leashes
Do not drink or carry alcoholic beverages; it is illegal.

Height: 150 feet Go on a sunny morning to see rainbows over the falls. The trail is moderately difficult and may not be suited for young children. Directions: From Cashiers, drive east on Highway 6...

Height: 150 feet You may have driven over this waterfall without even realizing it! There is no hike necessary to view this waterfall. Directions: From Cashiers, drive east on Highway 64 for about ...

Length: 10 feet Created by the Chattooga River, this natural waterslide glides over a 10-foot high rock face with a few large potholes. The water is quite cool, making it a popular spot during the ...

Height: 25 feet The lower portion of Silver Run Falls cascades over a rock ledge into an enchanting tree-lined pool. There is also a sandy beach, making this a fun swimming and picnic area that is ...

Height: 250 feet The rushing waters of the Cullasaja River flow over the Lower Cullasaja falls, in the Cullasaja Gorge. At 250 feet high, these falls are spectacular and are part of the Mountain Wa...

Height: 60 feet One of the most popular waterfalls in Western North Carolina, Looking Glass Falls is actually a stunning 30-foot wide cascade over a sloped 60-foot surface of polished granite — Loo...

18 small falls within 1/4 mile Be very careful when hiking this trail; the river banks are very steep and taking young children below the dam is not recommended. Directions: From Highlands, take Hi...

Height: 30-40 feet Scenic Hurricane Falls empties into Lake Glenville. Although hiking down to the fall is not advised, you can enjoy a great view of it from the roadside. Or, you can access it by ...

Height: 120 feet Also known as Cullowhee Falls, this waterfall is just below the Lake Glenville Dam. It becomes a stunningly powerful waterfall when the dam is released on certain days throughout t...