North Carolina’s second-tallest waterfall drops a dramatic 404 feet into Hickory Nut Gorge in Chimney Rock State Park. So dramatic, in fact, that it can be seen from the highway pouring over the vertical rock ledge and into the gorge. But that view is from far, far away. To see it up close requires a short and easy hike of only three quarters of a mile (one way).
And while seeing it from a distance without any effort is nice, the view and the sound of the water plunging 404 feet is completely worth the short journey to the base of this Goliath of a waterfall.
Put Hickory Nut Falls at the top of your priority list upon arrival. Grab a park trail map and head to the trailhead for an experience even the kids will appreciate.
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Getting an up close view of the state's second tallest waterfall is a moment to treasure, especially since Hickory Nut Falls is in full view from top to bottom without obstructions.
If you're a beginner hiker, then you should know there's an elevation gain of just shy of 300 feet on this trail. Just take your time and enjoy the easy uphill walk.
The trail can get crowded but with the pandemic, rest assured the state park is limiting the numbers of people allowed into the park, as compared to previous years. You'll still want to wear a mask to follow guidelines when social distancing isn't possible.
Before you know it, you'll climb a staircase and find yourself at the base of the falls!
Most people don't realize Hickory Nut Falls was featured in the 1992 major motion picture, "The Last of the Mohicians" with Daniel Day-Lewis and Madeline Stowe. Once you've seen the falls, if you ever have the chance to watch the film, you'll beam with pride as you instantly recognize this North Carolina natural wonder.
It's easy to fall in love with the majesty of Hickory Nut Falls.
Savor the experience and know it'll always be here when you want to see it again.
Learn more about the trail to Hickory Nut Falls from our friends at AllTrails. Information about gaining access into Chimney Rock State Park (with pandemic details) can be found here.
Want to explore a slightly more difficult trail to see the tallest waterfall in North Carolina? Upper Whitewater Falls is seven feet taller than Hickory Nut Falls.
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