10 Easy Waterfall Hikes Near Asheville, NC

6. Moore Cove Falls

• Distance from Asheville: 50 min
• Address: US 276 Brevard, NC
• Hike distance: 0.7 miles each way
• Waterfall height: 50 feet

Once a secluded waterfall hike, Moore Cove Falls has become much busier in recent years due to its’ proximity to tourist favorite Looking Glass Falls. If you are in the region, this short, yet exhilarating hike is just a mile up the road from Looking Glass and definitely worth the extra hassle if you love waterfalls. Moore Cove Falls, while just 50 feet tall, is unique in that it is the only waterfall in the state which you can stand underneath. Plenty of fun photos to take here. Be sure to visit during the rainy season (spring/summer) as the weak flow can slow down to a mere trickle during a dry spell.

Waterfall aside, the trek through the forest is very beautiful, although crowded at times. The RT distance is just under 1.5 miles, and the trail is relatively flat besides a small staircase climb near the start. Parking can be a hassle as spots are limited, so it’s best to visit during the slow season or head out very early in the morning.

7. Upper Whitewater Falls

• Distance from Asheville: 1 hour 20 min
• Address: NC Highway 281, Sapphire, NC 28774
• Hike distance: 0.25 miles each way
• Waterfall height: 411 feet

The hike to North Carolina’s largest waterfall requires no more than a half mile hike. Upper Whitewater dramatically plunges 411 feet and is easily viewable via an observing deck, while 400 foot Lower Falls in South Carolina requires a little bit more scrambling via a moderate 4 mile hike. With a combined height of over 800 feet, this is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Rockies. A simple quarter of a mile paved walkway leads you to an amazing overlook. For those wanting to enjoy an even better view, challenge yourself to the 154 step staircase climb. It’s not too difficult, and highly worth the leg workout for a prime view of one of the state’s most breathtaking falls.

Summer is the most popular time to visit. Although crowded, the falls look more stunning when surrounded by beautiful greenery. Plus, lovely wildflowers are blooming at this time. Fall, of course, is also a lovely time with colorful foliage providing a picture-perfect backdrop.

8. Soco Falls

• Distance from Asheville: 50 min
• Address: US-19 (about 10 miles from Cherokee)
• Hike distance: 0.2 miles
• Waterfall height: 120 feet

Soco Falls is a wonderful side trip if you are intending on visiting the Cherokee or Smoky Mountains area. Conveniently located roadside, this is an easy detour from the Parkway (located just outside the entrance). Two beautiful waterfalls merge together for one of the more alluring waterfall scenes in the state. A simple 10 minute walk leads you to a wooden observation deck. During the spring/summer season, the lovely foliage creates a picture-perfect setting, although you will likely only be able to see one waterfall. For a better view, there is an unmarked steep short trail to the base, although the rocks can be slippery – proceed with caution as many hikers have been injured.

Note that parking is limited and Soco Falls is a very popular tourist destination. It’s best to save this one for the weekday or time your visit early in the morning. At 120 feet, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in the region. The path to the deck is very short, but also a bit steep. Wear hiking shoes and take your time. The unmaintained hike to the base is considered dangerous – views from the deck are incredible enough. The parking area is located on US-19 near a blue Soco Falls sign. You will see a pullout with a guardrail. More likely than not, you will also see several cars.

9. Wildcat Branch Falls

• Distance from Asheville: 1 hour
• Address: 5500 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635
• Hike distance: 1 mile loop
• Waterfall height: 30 feet Lower Falls, 100 feet Upper Falls

If you are heading out to Jones Gap or Caesars Head State Park, you will want to make a quick detour to view the beautiful 30 foot tall Wildcat Branch Falls. While small in comparison to nearby options, Wildcat is especially picturesque with the exposed granite rock in the background. The lower portion of the falls can be viewed along Hwy 11 (aka Cherokee Foothills Scenic Hwy). However, it’s worth hiking the 1 mile loop trail to the Upper Falls. As most tourists congregate near the lower falls, the trail is always peaceful. The loop is heavily wooded and will take you to both the middle falls as well as the 100 foot tall Upper Falls.

Wildcat is super popular in the summer as it doubles as a sightseeing and swimming hole destination. Fall offers a refreshing break from the crowds, plus plentiful fall foliage.

10. Log Hollow & Logging Road Falls

• Distance from Asheville: 1 hour
• Address: FR 475B Brevard, NC (Hike starts behind the gate)
• Hike distance: ~1 mile each way
• Waterfall height: 25 feet /60 ft

The small, yet aesthetically pleasing 25 foot Log Hollow Falls is easily accessible via a simple hike along an old logging road. The hike itself is not very scenic, unless you visit during the fall. It’s very close to roadside wonder Looking Glass Falls, so a great side trip if you are in the vicinity. This trail receives almost no traffic, so you can expect a nice peaceful experience after visiting crowded Looking Glass Falls. When you arrive at your destination, you will see 2 trails. You will start at the old logging road marked Senaird Ridge trail (hike begins behind the gate).

This trail features 4 waterfalls in total. Log Hollow and Logging Road are visible via the logging road. Discovery and Upper Log Hollow Falls require a bit of a scrambling via unmarked side trails. The trek to Log Hollow is an easy half mile or so, viewable via a bridge (a short spur trail offers a better view). Although small, the waterfall is quite powerful, especially after heavy rain. Some hikers choose to continue up this steep spur trail for a view of Upper Log Hollow Falls (not really worth it in my opinion). Discovery Falls is located about a quarter of a mile before Log Hollow. You will see an unmarked trail before the first bridge. Take this a quarter of a mile (note: it’s steep and a bit dangerous).

Continue on the logging road for another half mile or so and you will reach 60 foot Logging Road Falls. This one is more impressive during the barren winter season. In the summer, the leaves obscure the view. All in all, the 2 main waterfalls combine for a nice ~2 mile out-and-back hike.

Note: the drive down FR475 (about 1.5miles) is bumpy with several potholes