The result of billions of years of erosion through some of world's oldest mountains, Western North Carolina's abundant waterfalls are part of what makes this one of the most beautiful regions in the world. From the subtle beauty of a 20 foot waterfall and its quiet pool to the majesty of the 411 foot Whitewater Falls, these natural formations of rock and water have captured the imaginations of visitors for generations. There are literally hundreds of waterfalls in WNC; we've taken the liberty of highlighting some of the most thrilling to get your waterfall adventures started.
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Pisgah National Forest
Looking Glass Falls
One of the region's most famous falls, Looking Glass Falls was named for the reflective layer of ice that forms on Looking Glass Rock in wintertime, a must-see for any WNC waterfall adventure. US 276 about 1 mile north of the FR 475 Junction.
Sliding Rock
A summertime Favorite, Sliding Rock is a naturally occurring 60-foot water slide that empties into a refreshing 6-foot deep pool.
Moore's Cove Falls
Great for the whole family, Moore's Cove Falls is a stunning 60 ft. tall. only one mile north of Looking Glass Falls on US 276.
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Dupont State Forest
Hooker Falls
A beautiful falls in its own rite, Hooker Falls has become well known as one of the best, and most popular, swimming holes in the Asheville Area. Easily accessible from the Hooker Falls parking lot.
Triple Falls
Water cascades above 120 ft. over this enchanting series of 3 falls. One of the Forest's most popular attractions, Triple Falls was featured in the film “Last of the Mohicans”. Just a short walk from the Hooker Falls parking area.
High Falls
These staggered 150 ft. falls are a marvel of granite and water. High Falls is a 15-minute walk upstream from Triple Falls.
Bridal Veil Falls
One of the region's most unique falls, Bridal Veil has been extensively undercut -- so much so that you can walk behind the falls to witness their "veiling" of the outside world. The effect is so stunning that it was used in the film Last of the Mohicans. The falls are most easily accessible from the Fawn Lake Access Area, turn right 0.10 miles and take the first left on Conservation Road for 1.70 miles past the airstrip and turn left on Bridal Veil Falls Road 0.53 miles to the base of the Bridal Veil Falls.
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Great Smoky Mountains
There are well over 100 waterfalls dotting the routes of virtually every stream in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We've documented the most popular of these to get you started.
Abrams Falls
One of the Park's most well known falls, Abrams is both beautiful and enormous (largest by volume). The 2.5 mile trail to the falls begins on the back of Cades Cove Loop Road.
Ramsey Cascades
The strenuous four mile hike to these falls begins at the Greenbrier Area. Those willing to make the trip will be richly rewarded with unforgettable 100 ft. cascades.
Laurel Falls
These famous 60 ft. falls are easily accessible from a paved trail.
Grotto Falls
The only Great Smoky Mountains waterfall that you can walk behind. Just off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Chasteen Creek Falls
For those looking for a decent moderate hike, Chasteen Falls is just 2 miles outside of the Smokemont Campground.
Indian Creek Falls
Found 1.5 miles out of the Deep Creek Area, this 35 foot fall is well worth the hike.
Henwallow Falls
Although it's a bit of a hike, 2.2 miles from the Cosby Campground, this 45 foot fall is well worth the effort. An additional reward is the relatively little traffic this site receives.
Rainbow Falls
This beautiful, 80 foot waterfall lies at the end of a challenging 2.75 mile hike.
Other Highlands Area Falls
Whitewater Falls
The highest waterfall east of the Rockies, Whitewater falls plunges a breathtaking 411 feet. To get there from Asheville: Take US 64 towards Brevard. At Sapphire, turn left on NC 281 and go south to the Whitewater Falls entrance.
Silver Run Falls
The subtle beauty of this 30 foot fall has made it a favorite of families. Located off NC 107, just 4.1 miles south of Cashiers.
Cullasajo Falls
Water cascades over 250 feet here. Although it makes for an unforgettable view the area surrounding the falls is as treacherous as the falls are beautiful. Located off U.S. 64, 11 miles east of Franklin.
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