The Short And Sweet Hickory Nut Falls Trail Leads To The Second Tallest Waterfall In North Carolina
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).

Luckily for those who love day trips, Hickory Nut Falls is located within one of North Carolina's most cherished state parks!

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.


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.

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.

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.
Address: Hickory Nut Falls, North Carolina 28746, USA