This North Carolina Beach And Waterfall Will Be Your New Favorite Paradise

North Carolina is home to a multitude of delightfully fun hidden beaches and little-known waterfalls. And the following secret spot only a stone's throw from the Tennessee border combines them both! If ever you've wondered, "what are some waterfalls near me in North Carolina?" and you live in the western portion of the state, you're in luck! Prepare for a fun day in the sun at this massive waterfall that has a natural pool at the bottom that is perfect for a day in the sun.

Powered by a large stream, Elk River Falls is an impressive 60-foot drop over a wide outcropping where the water is usually channeled to one side.

Depending upon recent rain amounts, the waterfall can, at times, be very powerful.

At the base of this massive waterfall is a large pool encircled by rock with a small opening that allows the water to flow down a small series of cascades for another 50 feet.

It's alongside this pool that visitors can be found basking in the sun along the sandy soil or the many smooth stone surfaces that line the pool.

Getting to this hidden beach is half the fun!

A short .03 mile trail winds through a forest setting and past the Elk River until you reach the final staircase that leads down to the base of the falls and the waterfall's beach.

Visiting in the summer months? Be sure to wear a bathing suit and bring something on which to float.

Plenty of water and a picnic will round out this amazing adventure. This popular swimming hole is well-known by the locals so prepare to meet a few of them already relaxing on the beach.

A word of caution about this particular waterfall: follow the rules at all times.

Don't be a daredevil and jump from the rocks — and keep your distance from the base of the waterfall within the pool. The currents are very strong. Many deaths have occurred here... so please follow the rules.

Aside from the swimming (which is a real bonus!) Elk River Falls is a worthy adventure any time of year.

This hidden waterfall in the middle of the woods is an excursion the whole family will love. Have you discovered this hidden beach yet?

We hope this lovely paradise comes to mind the next time you're researching "waterfalls near me in North Carolina." Elk River Road, the road to Elk River Falls (a.k.a. Big Falls), is located off of NC-19E in Elk Park, North Carolina. The parking area is at the very end of the road. Get turn-by-turn directions by entering your starting address into this Google Maps link.

Please note: Elk River Falls is North Carolina's most dangerous waterfall. Use caution at all times when swimming or exploring here. Do not walk out on the rocks at the top of the waterfall. And if swimming, be sure to stay as far away from the plunge pool as possible.