You’ll Find Waterfalls Around Every Bend At Gorges State Park In North Carolina

Waterfalls abound in the Tar Heel State but nowhere will you find them paired in a high concentration in such a dramatic landscape than in Gorges State Park in Sapphire, North Carolina. It's here that the water tumbles, rages, drops, drips, and pours into and through the gorge making any hike a scenic, waterfall-filled wonder. So, if you're tired of googling "waterfalls near me," here are some of our favorites!

The park's most thrilling waterfall is Rainbow Falls, which drops an impressive 150 feet into a plunge pool below. For comparison, think of a 15-story building ... that's how tall this spectacle is. Most individuals find it easy to be overwhelmed by the views, which is why this is one of the best waterfalls hikes in North Carolina.

Gorges State Park boasts more than 23 miles of trails and most of them feature unparalleled access to water views. Just around the bend from the 150-foot Rainbow Falls is another must-see: Sidepocket Falls.

One of the best features of the park is the Horsepasture River, a focal point and the source of many of the waterfalls found in the park. Due to the elevation changes, the rivers and creeks in Gorges State Park are filled with the sounds of rustling water as even the smallest elevation change means a cascade of water is in store for visitors to enjoy.

Three other must-see waterfalls include Turtleback Falls, found only a short distance upstream from Rainbow Falls. There's a nice natural platform for viewing this waterfall and it is one of our favorite hiking trails with waterfalls in North Carolina.

The 2.5-mile Stairway Falls trail leads to a tiered waterfall easily resembling a set of stairs — for a giant that doesn't mind getting his feet wet. You'll be in awe of the falls that dot the landscape deep in this gorge.

Although there are many more to see, it's worth it to take a hike over to Bearwallow Creek via a short offshoot from the Auger Hole Trail. Lower Bearwallow Falls (pictured) is a can't-miss part of this adventure since you're already here!

In our opinion, any day spent chasing waterfalls is a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Have you explored the waterfall paradise found at Gorges State Park yet? Which one is your fave? Let us know in the comments!