Posted in North Carolina
July 14, 2016
North Carolina’s Niagara Falls Is Too Beautiful For Words
When you think of the most epic waterfall on the east coast, of course you think of Niagara Falls. It’s one of the most impressive and beautiful not just on the east coast, but in the nation. But what if I told you North Carolina was home to an even more breathtaking fall that’s higher than Niagara?
Yes, the highest waterfall east of the Rockies is located RIGHT here in North Carolina.
Whitewater Falls is a series of waterfalls totaling 811 feet. The first portion, Upper Falls, is a whooping 411 feet. Of course, we share this waterfall with our neighbors to the south, with the lower portion at a different access point in South Carolina.
This gorgeous waterfall is located in the
Jocasse Gorges area of North Carolina. Despite the sheer magnitude of the waterfall, it's quite accessible to view.
For a stunning view of the falls, follow the paved, quarter-mile walkway from the parking lot. The walkway is even wheelchair accessible. Once you reach the endpoint, you're treated to some of the best views of Upper Whitewater Falls. Don't forget your camera!
For an even better view of the falls, travel down the 154 steps to the lower overlook. From both of these vantage points, you can't beat the view. But please use caution when in the area and stay on the trails. Several hikers have fallen to their death or wandered too far off the trail. The Jocasse Gorges area of North Carolina is extremely rugged and unpredictable - but the silver lining is that it's of course the perfect environment for one of the most amazing falls on the East Coast.
Summer-autumn is the best time to view the waterfall, and you really can't beat the incredible colors (from fall foliage to dense greenery) you'll witness all year long. While North Carolina is certainly the land of waterfalls, this is one you MUST experience. With easy access points and breathtaking views, add this to your North Carolina bucket list ASAP!
Whitewater Falls is easily one of the most amazing waterfalls, not only in North Carolina, but on the east coast. It's incredible to think we have our very own Niagara right here at home.
You really can’t beat a 411-foot waterfall right in your (statewide) backyard, and there’s no excuse not to visit now! Make a whole weekend out of it and explore the amazing North Carolina rainforest of Gorges State Park not too far away. Have you visited this waterfall for yourself?
If you LOVE waterfalls, you’re already living in the right state – and these 10 waterfalls are literally RIGHT off the road! Road trip, anyone?
