12 Breathtaking Waterfalls You’ll Find in North Carolina

Not only do we have the best waterfalls in North Carolina, but we also have some of the best waterfalls in the world. The mountains are just teeming with glorious falls just waiting to be discovered. If you fancy yourself a waterfall chaser, prepare to step into paradise in the vast wilderness of the beautiful Bluegrass State. Read on for the 12 best waterfalls in the entire state of North Carolina, including the peaceful hikes, stunning overlooks, and surrounding nature that lead there.

Ready to explore more waterfalls beyond the state border? From jaw-dropping cascades to swimmable emerald ponds, there are countless magnificent waterfalls found across the United States to explore.

Tallest Waterfalls in North Carolina

We want to start with the biggest waterfalls in North Carolina. What better way to start this off with a splash (pun intended) than to showcase the tallest and most impressive of these North Carolina waterfalls? These are some incredible falls to feast your eyes upon, so get ready to add them to your bucket list.

1. Upper Whitewater Falls, Nantahala National Forest

• Location: Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular and easy to get to via the 1.2-mile Upper Whitewater Falls Trail.
• Need to Know: This is the tallest waterfall in the state. There is a fee to enter the area where the falls are located.

Upper Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall in North Carolina. But that is only half the story. If you follow the flowing water down the mountain, you will find that there is a lower part of the falls that goes all the way into South Carolina. This waterfall is so big that it spans into another state! The upper falls alone will cascade down 411 feet, and the lower falls drop down 200 feet. Despite being a rugged waterfall, the trail to get there is not difficult. A simple 1.2-mile out-and-back hike with 216 feet of elevation gain is an easy price to pay for such an incredible waterfall.

2. Hickory Nut Falls, Chimney Rock State Park

• Location: Chimney Rock State Park, North Carolina
• Popularity: This is a very popular waterfall at a park that attracts more than a quarter million visitors annually.
• Need to know: To see this waterfall, you must pay the state park's entry fee.

Editor's Note: In light of the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on Sept. 27, 2024, this location has been severely damaged or destroyed. Please consult local authorities and read official updates for the most current information regarding the affected area. You can also visit the Chimney Rock State Park website for updates.

Hickory Nut Falls is another one of those natural wonders that is a must-see in the North Carolina mountains. Located in Chimney Rock State Park, you will have to pay an entrance fee, but once inside, you will be free to roam the many wonderful natural attractions inside the park. Chimney Rock itself is the draw for most people, but this park also houses one of the biggest waterfalls in North Carolina. Hickory Nut Falls cascades down the rock face an impressive 404 feet. The trail getting there is just under 2 miles, but it will take you to a viewing platform right at the base of this tall natural beauty.

3. Flat Creek Falls, Nantahala National Forest

• Location: Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
• Popularity: Not very popular due to its remote location via a moderately challenging trail.
• Need to Know: The trail has three water crossings, so waterproof shoes are necessary.

Flat Creek Falls is another fantastic waterfall with several cascading sections and a true spectacle to see. Unlike the other two waterfalls so far, this one is a bit trickier to get to; however, with some preparation, you too can stand at the base of this glorious waterfall. The trail will take you on a nearly 6-mile, out-and-back hike with over 1,000 feet of elevation. There are three water crossings you will have to traverse, so you might want to make sure you have some water shoes handy in your backpack. Take your time and enjoy the trail—it's one of the most incredible waterfall hikes in North Carolina if you can make the trek.

Best Waterfall Hikes in North Carolina

I love it when the journey is just as good as the destination, and that is the case with these next waterfall hikes in North Carolina. Everyone loves the feeling of arriving at a waterfall and even sitting underneath its cool mist on a warm day, but getting there can be just as fun. If you love hiking, then these are some of the best waterfall hikes in North Carolina.

4. Linville Falls, Blue Ridge Parkway

• Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular
• Need to Know: Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 316.

When we went for a hike to see Linville Falls, I was pleasantly surprised to find that there were multiple ways to view the falls. With so many choices, we decided to take the hardest trail first while we were fresh and excited. After all, we are avid hikers, so we figured it would be fun—we were right about that. When you arrive at the visitor center, there is a helpful map showing where each trail leads.

The most arduous trail offers up the best views—it takes you on a steep cliffside hike, narrow paths, and even some rock climbing to maneuver around trees. Stop at Linville Falls' base and take in the glorious view... It's worth it. But if you're short on time, quicker hikes to the upper falls and overlook are just as grand. Use apps like AllTrails to see which trail to Linville Falls is the best for you.

5. Crabtree Falls, Blue Ridge Parkway

• Location: Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
• Popularity: This waterfall is a very popular tourist destination.
• Need to Know: Located off the Blue Ridge Parkway near milepost 339.

Crabtree Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls in North Carolina. These cascading falls are the most visually appealing, as the water flows in tendrils and contrasts with the dark rockface. The challenge is getting there via a loop trail (Crabtree Falls right in the middle of the trail). The best way to hike it is to go clockwise, descend the steep switchbacks down to the waterfall, and hike the gradual incline on the way out.

There is a bridge at the waterfall's base, and you can climb on the rocks to get a closer look. It's definitely worth stopping to take in the peaceful view. If you would like to pair hiking trails on a trip, then another western North Carolina spot you should check out is Graveyard Fields off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

6. Moore Cove Falls, Pisgah National Forest

• Location: Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular
• Need to Know: This is a 50-foot waterfall you can walk behind.

Moore Cove Falls is simply a magical waterfall. There is something about a waterfall you can walk behind that gets me super excited. This cliffside plunge fits perfectly in its Blue Ridge Mountain setting, nestled into the Pisgah National Forest, and is a must if you are traveling on the Parkway. The little over a mile round-trip hike along Moore Cove Falls Trail is reasonably flat as it meanders through a beautiful, lush green forest with massive rock formations and elevated boardwalks.

Once you arrive at the falls, you will witness this spectacle of nature, and yes, you will get the chance to walk behind it. Climbing the rocks, traversing the cave, and listening to the falling water make this a very memorable experience. You'll also find the parking lot for Sliding Rock nearby, a natural waterslide and popular North Carolina swimming hole, so make sure you bring your bathing suits.

Accessible Waterfalls in North Carolina (No Hiking Required)

As much as I love a good waterfall hike, these next ones won’t require any equipment or long trails. You can drive right up to these beauties and witness their incredible power. These next waterfalls are unique and have much to offer, with little to no hiking required. These should be some tremendous quick stops on your next waterfall road trip in North Carolina.

7. Looking Glass Falls, Brevard

• Location: Brevard, North Carolina
• Popularity: One of the most popular waterfalls in the western part of the state due to its easy access from the road.
• Need to Know: Parking is limited on the side of the road, but if you drive by a few times, you should get a spot fairly quickly.

Looking Glass Falls is the perfect example of how you don’t need to do a long hike to enjoy a marvelous waterfall. You can even see it from your car as you drive by. Roadside poarking is available, but it may be hard to find open spots on the weekends or when it's really busy. That said, most people see the falls and leave, so patience is key. Head to the viewing platform if you want a bird's eye view, or stay at the base of the falls (what I'd recommend!). A few flights of stairs will lead you to the powerful gushing water and serene pool below. Visit the U.S. Forest Service website for parking information.

8. Dry Falls, Highlands

• Location: Highlands, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular, especially during mid-day and on holidays.
• Need to Know: You can walk behind this waterfall. Parking is limited, so visit earlier or later in the day. A fee is also charged.

When most people think of the best waterfalls in North Carolina that you don’t need to hike to, Dry Falls is high on that list, and for good reason. This 75-foot-tall waterfall flows down from a ledge above, and a pathway was made to walk behind a curtain of flowing water. The setting for this scene is perfect; the lush greenery and wooded fence railing make the whole place seem tucked deep in a jungle. There is always something magical about walking behind a waterfall, and if you love that feeling as I do, then this is a special place that deserves a spot on your bucket list. The U.S. Forest Service website has more info about parking and fees.

9. Bridal Veil Falls, Highlands

• Location: Highlands, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular as it's easy to drive to and accessed from a parking lot.
• Need to Know: Once upon a time, you could drive behind the falls, but now, you are only allowed to walk behind them.

Bridal Veil Falls has to be one of the most unique roadside waterfalls in the country. Not only that, but it also has a very interesting history. If you are driving on the famous Highway 64 in North Carolina, known for its slew of impressive waterfalls (Like Dry Falls, Cullasaja Falls, and Silver Run Falls), you can't miss Bridal Veil Falls. You will quite literally drive by it, and you will notice the road splits, with one section going behind the falls and the other in front.

The original highway led behind the falls, but due to icing issues, the traffic was later routed to the front of the waterfall. But you can still walk behind it! This is a fascinating waterfall and a quick stop while you continue down the road to see more cascades on this trip through the Highlands. Visit the U.S. Forest Service website for directions to Bridal Veil Falls, one of the most unique waterfalls in the state.

Best Waterfalls Near Asheville

If you live close to Asheville and want to view waterfalls, then you are in luck—the mountains are filled with hundreds of falls, and all of the best ones are found on the western side of North Carolina. Less than an hour away is the town of Brevard, which is also known as “The Land of Waterfalls,” so you know you’re in the right place to find the best of the best in North Carolina. Other waterfalls to check out in the area are Rainbow Falls, Catawba Falls, and Schoolhouse Falls.

10. Soco Falls, Maggie Valley

• Location: Maggie Valley, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular due to its easy accessibility.
• Need to Know: If you don’t want to make the steep descent to the base of the falls, there is a viewing platform that is very easy to reach.

Editor's Note: The trail to Soco Falls is currently closed. Visit AllTrails for updates on the trail reopening.

It is less than an hour’s drive from Asheville, and you can get to Soco Falls. This is also an easy waterfall to find while driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway. We visited this waterfall as a detour one day while exploring the Parkway. There isn’t an official trailhead, but just a small pull-out from the windy mountain road and a guardrail. Head into the woods, and in just a short walk, you can get to the viewing platform to see this beautiful waterfall.

What makes this waterfall unique is that it is actually two waterfalls pouring in and pooling together at its base. If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, take the steep and slippery trail down to the base of the falls. There are ropes tied to help you as you traverse the path, but if you have good hiking shoes, then you shouldn’t have any trouble getting down there.

11. Triple Falls, DuPont State Forest

• Location: DuPont State Forest, North Carolina
• Popularity: These falls are located in a very popular hiking area.
• Need to Know: Plan to be in this forest for a good part of the day, as there are plenty of waterfalls close by.

Triple Falls is less than an hour south of Asheville and is found in the DuPont State Forest. This area is perfect for those looking to chase waterfalls because you can see three impressive waterfalls all in one place. Pair this trip to Triple Falls with other popular places like High Falls and Hooker Falls for an epic adventure. Although all of these waterfalls are well worth the trip, I like Triple Falls because of its three-tiered cascades. This impressive waterfall flows down the rock stairs for a total of 125 feet, making it a massive and beautiful waterfall. Visit AllTrails for any trail closures before you go.

12. Mingo Falls, Cherokee

• Location: Cherokee, North Carolina
• Popularity: Very popular
• Need to Know: There is a viewing bridge right in front of Mingo Falls.

Mingo Falls is the furthest away from Asheville on this list (about a one-hour drive), but the trip is well worth it. Trust me, I have been to this waterfall twice, and it has totally blown me away. The trail is an easy-to-moderate 0.3-mile hike along Mingo Falls Trail, with the most challenging part being the long staircase right at the beginning. After that, the trail is relatively flat and rocky up to the bridge. My favorite part about this bridge is that you don’t really get to see Mingo Falls until you get a few steps in and then prepare to get your breath stolen.

This waterfall's wow factor is the size (120 feet) and cascading water flow. You'll stand in awe at how the waterfall continuously flows. It's very close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and can be easily paired with this fantastic visit to this natural wonderland in the Appalachian region.

What do you think of this list of the best waterfalls in North Carolina? If you haven't yet visited some on this list, consider planning a trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to guide your trip. It'll help you find the best lodging, dining, and sightseeing near the falls you choose to visit, guaranteeing the best possible getaway.