10 Most Breathtaking Waterfalls in Western North Carolina
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6. Dry Falls
Upper Cullasaja Falls aka Dry Falls is another North Carolina natural wonder. This is one of just a handle of waterfalls which you can safely walk behind (and not get wet), hence the nickname. Requiring no more than a quarter mile walk, Dry Falls is easily accessible to everyone. There is even a deck to view it if you are unable to walk. The 75 foot waterfall beautifully cascades over a rock cliff into a river. The unique setting draws a lot of traffic throughout the year.
Not only is it gorgeous and powerful but it is located within proximity to numerous other waterfalls. Hwy 64 is a hotbed for gorgeous waterfalls (check out Bridal Veil & Glen Falls while out this way). So hop in the car, pack a picnic, and plan on a whole day of waterfall hunting. This one is no secret so expect crowds if you visit on prime weekends.
How to get here: The Dry Falls parking lot is located along Hwy 64, 3.5 miles west of Highlands. Quite a drive at 1.5 hours west of Asheville, however, you can combine several falls for the best bang-for-your-buck experience. Fee: $3 per car.
7. Hickory Nut Falls
Hickory Nut is a whopping 404 foot waterfall located inside beautiful Chimney Rock State Park. While often overlooked in favor of the climb to the top of Chimney Rock, this waterfall is no small wonder. A short trek of just over a mile will take you to this beauty which was featured in The Last of the Mohicans.
Chimney Rock is definitely worth visiting despite the high admission tag. The views of the Blue Ridge mountains and nearby Lake Lure from the park’s iconic 499 step climb trail are simply breathtaking. This is one of my favorite attractions to visit in the state: I’ve been here many times and never tire.
- How to get here: Chimney Rock is located at 742 Chimney Rock Rd about 50 min SE of Asheville. Admission is $17 per person and $8 for kids (ages 5-15).
- My guide to visit Chimney
8. Linville Falls
Linville Falls is one of my top recommended stops along the magnificent Blue Ridge Parkway. This multi-tiered waterfall beautifully cascades into the Linville Gorge, a massive wilderness area within the Pisgah National Forest which has been nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians.” The beautiful uninterrupted forest land which surrounds this waterfall is what really makes it stand out amongst the others.
The total round trip hike is a little over a mile and a half and slightly strenuous due to numerous uphill sections. There are multiple overlooks where you can take in the beauty of the Upper and Lower Falls and the Linville Gorge wilderness. All-in-all, this is one gorgeous hike. Despite the heavy traffic, it’s so easy to quickly immerse yourself in nature and forget about any crowds as soon as you hit the trees.
- How to get here: Linville is located at Milepost 316 along the Blue Ridge Parkway, about an hour NE of Asheville. Parking is free.
- My guide to hiking Linville
9. Whitewater Falls
At a stunning 811 feet, Whitewater Falls comes in as one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies. The Upper Falls cascades 411 feet, while the lower falls plunge 400 feet, with gorgeous uninterrupted wilderness creating a spectacular backdrop. The gorgeous Nantahala National Forest is the largest national forest in the state. The serene heavily forested scenery make Nantahala an ideal place for any type of recreation, with Whitewater being just one of many natural wonders within the forest.
The hike to see this awe-inspiring natural sight is just over a 1/2 mile round-trip. The short trek to the Upper Falls overlook is paved and wheelchair friendly. For a closer view, you can challenge yourself to a climb up and down 154 steps. It is quite a stair climbing workout, but worth the burn for the incredible viewpoint. Additionally, just across the state line in South Carolina lies the trail to the Lower Falls.
How to get here: Whitewater is located on Hwy 281 near Cashiers, about an hour and a half SW of Asheville. Fee: $3 per car.
10. Pearson’s Falls
I love waterfalls that you can stand underneath as you do not come across them all too often. The hike to get to Moore Cove is so woodsy and quiet as tourists head over to nearby Looking Falls instead. I usually combine a visit to Looking Glass with a peaceful hike along this rustic trail.
As you can tell, the waterfall is not as big (in comes at 50 feet) and mighty as others on this list, but the fact you can stand under it makes it pretty special. Visiting after a heavy rainy period is best for great photos.
How to get here: Exit the parkway at Mile Marker 411. You will continue 8 miles on US 276.
Need somewhere to stay? Asheville, Hendersonville, and 5 Things to do in Brevard, North CarolinaBrevard are all wonderful bases to exploring the wonders of the Western North Carolina region.
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