Hiking Hotspot: Glen Falls in the Nantahala National Forest

Living in Asheville, I take many daytrips all over the magnificent Western North Carolina region to explore natural wonders and waterfalls. The prime benefit of living here to me is not the highly touted foodie scene, but the easy access to so many beautiful places. Highlands is a very beautiful area for a daytrip about an hour and a half from Asheville. Fitness buffs and nature lovers will love all the hiking options with Glen Falls being the best-of-the-best.

It’s a high elevation area (4118 feet) so temps are usually much cooler here. As Asheville is already decently cool, this will be more of a benefit if you are coming from a really hot and humid climate like Charlotte.

I’ve hiked to so many gorgeous falls since relocating here with this being one of the best bang-for-your-buck options I’ve come across. On this short hike, you will get to see not one, but three incredible waterfalls. If you are limited on time, definitely put this one on your bucket list so you do not have to spend unnecessary time driving to and from various waterfalls in the WNC region. Of course, if you do have the time, I recommend exploring more!

This hike is located within the beautiful Nantahala National Forest, the largest of the 4 North Carolina national forests. In Cherokee, Nantahala translates into “land of the noon day sun.” Fitness buffs and nature lovers will love all the hiking options in and around this beautiful mountain community. Plus, there is a nice Main Street with local dining options, antique shops, and easy access to other waterfalls.

The trail: Green and peaceful

This trail is decently busy, however, not crowded enough to prevent you from enjoying some much needed quality time in nature. We enjoyed all the beautiful greenery, wildflowers, and peaceful flowing creeks. Most trails in this Blue Ridge area are so pretty and this one is no different.

Along the trail, there is plenty of shade, so it’s a great temporary escape from the intense summer sun. During the fall season, you will be surrounded by a medley of colorful hues. Late spring and early summer is the best time weather-wise to enjoy the gorgeous mild temps in comparison to the rest of the state. Also, waterfalls in this region tend to be at their most powerful at this time as a result of melting snowfall combined with heavy spring and summer rainfall. Note: if you head out right after a storm, the trail will be muddy and quite slippery.

While the trail is short at just over a mile each way, it’s definitely quite a trek with 700 feet in elevation gain. Remember what goes down must come up. If you are not up for a major workout, you could always just go out to one or 2 waterfalls and turn around. Honestly, the first and second are much more scenic.

Keep in mind that you will be going up and down a number of steep stairs – it’s not the best option for those with bad knees. Also there are many exposed roots along the trail, so good hiking shoes and a stick will come in handy. Overall, it was a great hike, my only complaint being that a few more trail markings would have been nice.

Three waterfalls: One journey

If you can make it out to all 3 waterfalls, definitely do so. Each is unique in its’ beauty. The first waterfall clocks in at around 70 feet. This one is very photogenic and easy to get great pictures of. The second waterfall stands 60 feet tall and is the most scenic of the three. While the third falls stands a mere 15 feet, it is still framed by gorgeous greenery. If you are short on time or looking to keep it easy, hiking out just to the first (possibly second) will save your legs some added stress.

Here are pics I took of each – as you can tell, they all look strikingly beautiful, yet different. This is the order in which you will come across each one.

In between the various falls, you will enjoy pretty views of the creek, a lovely view of the mountains, and unending views of the lush Nantahala National Forest. This is a lovely trail for exploring local plant life and bird watching. I found the mountain scenery here so much more motivating than on the trails we usually frequent. Generally, the mountain views are better the higher up you go (in terms of elevation).

Note: do not attempt to climb any waterfalls. Many deaths have occurred! Safely view and photograph from a distance! Here is just one of many sad news stories in the region.

Location/parking

The trailhead is located at: 1091 Glen Falls Road. Parking is free, although very limited. It’s best to get here early to ensure a spot. On the downside, the dirt road (about a mile long) to get to the trailhead parking is a bit rough and bumpy. Our Prius barely made it – it wasn’t fun to say the least.

Note there are no drinking water/restroom facilities. Bring with water bottles, snacks, a hiking stick, and a GPS watch. I also recommend taking a picture of the trail map in case you get lost. The beginning is a bit confusing as there are 2 ways to go – you will want to make a left.

What to do nearby

Highlands is a quaint upscale community with plenty of dining and shopping options. At 4000+ feet, the summer temps rarely hover above the high 70’s-mid 80’s. Before or after working up a sweat, I recommend heading downtown. Lots of local shops and restaurants populate the area. If you need a pick me up, Calder’s Coffee Cafe is a great place for a coffee and snack.

Dry Falls – Beautiful 65 foot waterfall located along a simple quarter of a mile trail. One of the few which you can walk underneath.

Bridal Veil Falls – A 45 foot tall roadside waterfall which at one point was the only one you could drive underneath. Today, you can still take a quick walk and feel the cool mist in the air. Nevertheless, still a cool place and conveniently located on the way to Dry Falls.

Whiteside Mountain Trail – A gorgeous hike if you are seeking out the best mountain views. The 2 mile loop is scenic, but rather steep. Definitely save this one for a separate day!