While those old song lyrics say, ‘don’t go chasing waterfalls,’ in North Carolina, it’s best to ignore this bit of advice and DO go chasing waterfalls. The state has no shortage of waterfalls and amazing hikes to go along with them, ranging from falls that reach hundreds of feet to mild and temperate cascades with gentle swimming holes. Enjoy the gorgeous sites on some of the best hiking trails in North Carolina with waterfalls!

1. Linville Falls
Linville Falls, NC 28752, USA
Flickr / Kim Seng
Just recently we covered the beautiful Linville Falls and the two popular hiking options; one taking you to the base of the fall and the other to Erwin's View. While both hikes total four miles together, the most popular option is hiking the Erwin's View Trail just 1.6 miles from the Visitor's Center to the most-photographed perspective of the 80-foot Linville Falls. For more information on the hike or other things to see and do at Linville Falls, be sure to read our guide.
2. Lower Cascade Falls, Hanging Rock State Park
Lower Cascade Falls, North Carolina 27052, USA
Flickr / Zach Frailey
If you're looking for a great kid-friendly hike in North Carolina, check out Lower Cascade Falls! Less than a half mile hike on the Lower Cascades Trail takes you to the stunning Lower Cascades Fall at Hanging Rock State Park. The waterfall is encompassed within a unique rock formation and the pool of the fall is actually perfect for wading or little swimmers to play and splash. After your hike, if you feel so daring, climb to the top of Hanging Rock for stunning views of the Piedmont. It will be hard to believe you're actually not in the mountains for this one.
3. Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls, North Carolina 28777, USA
flickr/Jim Doller
The Crabtree Falls Loop Trail has made several of our lists, including 11 incredible hikes in under five miles. The 2.5-mile loop hike can be strenuous at parts but continuously rewards you with beauty- this is one of the most scenic hikes in North Carolina! You'll be amazed by the stunning Crabtree Falls that cascades a total of 70 feet. The hike weaves you through growths of birch and hemlock while you're treated to rocky outcrops offering Blue Ridge views and quiet, scenic vistas perfect for a stop. Take time to enjoy Crabtree Falls and sit on the bench on the bridge, or pack a lunch to eat on the rocks. It's one of the great easy hikes in North Carolina that's perfect for mixed levels.
4. Hickory Nut Falls
Hickory Nut Falls, North Carolina 28746, USA
Flickr / Brian Leon
The stunning Hickory Nut Falls is easily accessed by a 1.5-mile hike that's safe and accessible for the whole family. Part of Chimney Rock State Park, Hickory Nut falls a total of 404 feet against a towering rock wall. For more information on what to see and do at Chimney Rock State Park, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide.

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5. Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls, North Carolina 28719, USA
flickr/pulaw
A hidden gem hiding in the Smokies, the beautiful Mingo Falls is accessed by a short and brisk 0.4-mile hike inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary). The 120-foot fall is always impressive, but especially after a large rainfall which causes the cascade to flow in full force.
6. Skinny Dip Falls
Skinny Dip Falls Trailhead, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Canton, NC 28716, USA
Flickr / Wen-Ting Yang
You can leave your clothes on at skinny dip falls, but be sure to bring your bathing suit as this waterfall also doubles as a swimming hole. Different rocky outcrops make for perfect jump-off spots while a deep pool allows for actual swimming (after you get used to the chilly water). You'll find Skinny Dip Falls off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park at the Looking Glass Rock overlook, cross the street, and a 2.0-mile downward hike takes you to Skinny Dip. Once there, it feels as if you've discovered a utopia hiding in the woods.
7. DuPont State Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest, Staton Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718, USA
Flickr / Charlie Cowins
In DuPont State Forest you can hike to not only one waterfall, but three. While this is indeed the longest hike on the list, the constant rewards and scenery make you forget you're even trekking three miles. The most popular trail option leads you to Hooker, Triple, and High Falls. Hooker Falls is another great swimming hole, perhaps the most popular in the state, but you might want to save the swim for when you hike back. For a comprehensive guide on what trails to take and sights to see at DuPont State Forest, be sure to read this article.
8. Midnight Hole
Flickr / Alex Ford
By now you might've caught on to the fact that a lot of these waterfalls double as swimming holes. While Midnight Hole might have the smallest fall (if it can even really be considered a waterfall) the gentle cascades flow into a crystal-clear pool perfect for a chilly mountain dip. Located in the Big Creek area of the Smoky Mountains, a 1.5-mile hike down Big Creek Trail will lead you to this hidden oasis. Keep your eyes peeled though, as there are no clear-cut signs indicating you've arrived. This is a popular weekend spot for both hiking and swimming, so you might hear some fellow splashers or hikers that will help guide you there.

For more information on this super secret swimming spot and how to find it, check out this article about Midnight Hole.

What awesome hikes to take in North Carolina! Which ones will you try first? Have you done any before?

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Best Hikes in North Carolina

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How many state parks are in North Carolina?

The North Carolina State Parks system includes:

  • 34 parks
  • Four recreation areas
  • Three staffed natural areas

 

There are plenty of different types of parks, from easy trails to the most challenging hikes, and amazing water features that offer some gorgeous photo opportunities for you and your group to memorialize your trip. You can't go wrong with a visit to any of these fantastic parks. Whether you’re hoping for a mountain adventure or a waterfront sunset, there is surely a state park in North Carolina that you’ll love.

Can I camp right on the water in North Carolina?

Yes, you can absolutely camp right on the water in North Carolina! While there are several options, one of the most popular is Rodanthe Watersports and Campground. Some details on this campground:

  • It is right on the Pamlico Sound
  • Rodanthe features swimming, kayaking, windsurfing, surfing, paddleboarding, and, of course, the option of just enjoying the beach and watching the beautiful sunsets!
  • You can camp in an RV or a tent.
  • The location is within walking distance of restaurants and shopping.

 

What are the most beautiful lakes in North Carolina?

There are certainly some beautiful lakes in North Carolina. Two that are worth highlighting are:

  • Lake Norman, which may be man-made, but that doesn’t besmirch its beauty one bit! This lake was created in 1964 and has opportunities for bird watching and fishing, and even features two yacht clubs.
  • Lake Wylie, which spills over into South Carolina as well. Boating is a favorite pastime on this lake, with two boat access points open to the public and several lakeside communities to visit on your peaceful boat ride. If you're hoping to rent, you can rent pontoon boats and enjoy the views. There are 325 miles of shoreline to see!

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