NC Waterfalls E through L

East Fork Falls:

East Fork Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on East Fork French Broad River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located on land that will be part of Headwaters State Forest. Since the forest is not yet open to the public, I'll wait to to post GPS or directions.

Eastatoe Falls:

Eastatoe Falls is a beautiful 70-foot waterfall in Transylvania County just outside of Rosman. The waterfall is located on private property, but the landowners are kind enough to allow public access. However, I don't feel comfortable posting directions or GPS coordinates here as you literally park in these folks' backyard. A quick internet search will bring up directions if you're so inclined. If you do visit, please be respectful - visit during normal hours, don't make a lot of noise, don't litter, drive slowly while on their property (being especially careful of the dog), and only park in the designated waterfall parking spaces. You can see the waterfall from the parking area, but if you have any trouble, the very friendly dog will show you the way. He seems to really enjoy the company and will even pose for pictures!

Elbow Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.15766,-82.99869 (Cold Mountain Gap Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.17795,-83.00340

Elbow Falls is a small waterfall on Tuckasegee River in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-64 from Lake Toxaway and turn left to get on NC-281 north. In just under a mile, bear left to get on Cold Mountain Road. Go 5.7 miles to the end of the road and turn left onto the gravel road. Go a short ways and turn right to reach the parking area. This is the Cold Mountain Gap access to Panthertown Valley.

Pick up Panthertown Valley Trail (#474) at the end of the parking area and follow it down the switchbacks. In about a mile, turn right on Devils Elbow Trail (#448). Go about 1 mile and after crossing Little Green Creek is a split with Riding Ford Trail (#450). Bear right to stay on Devils Elbow Trail and go another 0.3 miles to where the trail turns right. Take an obvious path to the left descends to the river at Elbow Falls.

Elk Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.19737,-81.97002 (end of Elk River Road)

Waterfall GPS: 36.19879,-81.96910

Elk Falls, also called Big Falls or Elk River Falls, is a 65-foot waterfall on Elk River in Avery County. The waterfall is located in the Appalachian Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest, just outside the town of Elk Park. It's an easy hike of less than a half-mile round trip to see the falls.

To visit the falls, take US-19E into Elk Park. Turn right on Little Elk Road, make an immediate left onto Old Mill Road and then an immediate right on Elk River Road. Follow Elk River Road about 4 miles to the end at a parking area for the waterfall. The road changes to gravel when it enters the National Forest.

The trail to the waterfall is about a quarter mile and pretty easy. The trail leads to exposed bedrock at the top of the waterfall and then climbs down to the base of the waterfall, where you can climb out onto the rocks for good views. This is a really nice waterfall, considering the ease of access. It's also very popular and has limited parking, so if you plan to visit on a nice day, try to get there early. The large pool at the base of the waterfall is a popular swimming hole and some people climb around the waterfall to jump in. Jumping off the waterfall is very dangerous. People have died here and it's strongly discouraged by the forest service.

Emily Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.29041,-82.31842 (Long Ridge Trailhead parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.28579,-82.32043

Emily Falls is a 12-foot waterfall on Bishop Branch in Polk County. The waterfall is located in Green River Game Lands. The hike to the waterfall is less than a mile round trip and easy.

To visit the falls, take I-26 to Hendersonville and get off at exit 53 for Upward Road. Go east on Upward Road for about 1.5 miles and turn right on Big Hungry Road. Bear left at the first fork in a half-mile to stay on Big Hungry Road and right at the second fork to stay on the road. Drive a total of 5.3 miles from Upward Road to a small gravel parking area on the right.

On the right is a gated road that leads into a field. Do not take the more obvious gravel road that is Long Ridge Road. Follow the road through an open field area for about a quarter-mile it will end at a T-intersection with Bishop Branch Trail. Go left and the trail will pass by the waterfall. A short scramble path leads down to the base.

English Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.91130,-81.96417 (Blue Ridge Parkway near Milepost 322)

Waterfall GPS: 35.91325,-81.96110

English Falls is a remote waterfall on a tributary of North Fork Catawba River in McDowell County. The waterfall is located on the border between the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about a mile round trip, but exceedingly difficult.

To visit the falls, head north from Marion on US-221. In about 9 miles, turn left on NC-226 north and go about 5.5 miles up the escarpment to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn right to go north on the Blue Ridge Parkway for about 8.7 miles and pull off on the grassy shoulder of the Parkway near milepost 322.

From the pull-off, hike north on the parkway past the guard rail. As the road curves to the left, go right into the woods. Head down through the thick shrubs until you come out at the creek above the waterfall. Cross the creek wherever is easiest. There are some steep cliffs that you'll have to manuever around and get to the base of the cliffs and then to the base of the waterfall. Be sure to have a topo map as there is no trail. Also beware of yellow jackets - I got stung here and another friend also got stung here another time.

Enloe Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.60907,-83.22268 (Parking area along Straight Fork Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.61128,-83.26120

Enloe Creek Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Swain County. The waterfall is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is about 7 miles round trip and strenuous, requiring off-trail hiking to find it.

Entrance Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.05325,-83.05386 (End of Heady Mountain Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.05083,-83.04821

Entrance Falls is a cascading waterfall on Whitewater River in Jackson and Transylvania County (the county line runs down the river). The waterfall is located in Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest (in Jackson and Transylvania counties, respectively). The hike to the waterfall is extremely difficult. This waterfall lies at the entrance to the Upper Whitewater Slot Canyon.

Exit Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.05325,-83.05386 (End of Heady Mountain Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.05053,-83.04731

Exit Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on Whitewater River in Jackson and Transylvania County (the county line runs down the river). The waterfall is located in Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest (in Jackson and Transylvania counties, respectively). The hike to the waterfall is extremely difficult. This waterfall lies at the exit of the Upper Whitewater Slot Canyon.

Fall Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.54075,-79.98260 (Pull-off on DeShazo Road)

Waterfall GPS: 36.54114,-79.98481

Fall Creek Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on Fall Creek in Rockingham County. The waterfall is located in an currently-undeveloped section of Mayo River State Park. The hike to the falls is less than a half-mile round trip and easy.

To visit the falls, head north on US-220 from Mayodan. 3.5 miles north of where US-220 and US-220 Bus merge, take the Smith Road exit and turn left on Smith Road. Drive 4.9 miles on Smith Road and turn left on Anglin Mill Road. In 0.4 miles, turn right on DeShazo Road, which changes to gravel. In just under 1 mile from the turn, look for a grassy spot to pull off on the right immediately after the bridge over Fall Creek. From the parking spot, cross the road where a bunch of wooden posts indicate state park property. Follow the trail less than a quarter-mile to the waterfall.

Flat Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.20970,-83.02836 (End of FSR-4662)

Waterfall GPS: 35.22039,-83.03287

Flat Creek Falls is a spectacular 200-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 7 miles round trip and extremely difficult.

To visit the falls, head north on NC-281 (Blue Ridge Road) from the intersection with US-64 in Lake Toxaway. Drive about 9.2 miles on NC-281 (it changes from Blue Ridge Road to Canada Road in about 6.8 miles) and turn right on Rock Bridge Road, a narrow gravel road. Bear right at the first fork in about three-quarters of a mile and then bear right again at just under two miles. You will now be on Forest Service Road 4662 (Flat Creek Road). There is a Forest Service Sign at this second junction, but sometimes its obscured by foliage. Once on FSR-4662, go about 2 miles to the end and park.

The way to the falls that I describe is very difficult, but stays on National Forest property as best I can tell. There is a slightly easier way to visit that involves trespassing, so I won't describe. None of this hike is on official trails and its very easy to get lost in this rugged area. A GPS and topo map is recommended. From the parking area, cross Flat Creek either by wading or crossing on the logs over the creek. Once across follow the old logging road to a campsite. Look for a path to the right that crosses some jeep mounds. This trail starts off pretty easy but gets more overgrown and difficult to follow. As the trail circumvents a drainage, a downed tree made finding the path difficult. Eventually, this trail comes out on another old logging road. Be sure to mark the spot where you come out as it will be difficult to find on the return. There is a plastic pipe in the ground at the turn, but it can tough to spot.

Turn right and follow this old road. In about three-quarters of a mile, there is a split - go right. As you get closer to the falls, a faint path to the right leads to the top of the waterfall. There aren't really great views from here. Continue on the logging road for about 1.5 miles from the turn off on a very faint path right at about the point where the road would enter private property. Follow this path for a couple hundred feet and look for a spot to go down to the right. There is absolutely no trail and it is incredibly steep. Just keep heading down and in a general east direction towards Flat Creek. Eventually you'll come out on a path - turn right and follow the path upstream, staying on the right side of the river. As you near the waterfall, you'll have to make a wet crossing of Flat creek and then scramble up rocks to the base. Although a difficult hike, this waterfall is fantastic and worth the effort.

Frolictown Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.16793,-83.03980 (Salt Rock Gap parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.16204,-83.03814

Frolictown Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on its namesake in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in Panthertown Valley in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is less than 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-64 from Cashiers for about 2 miles and turn left on Cedar Creek Road. Drive 2.3 miles and turn right on Breedlove Road. Drive 3.5 miles to the end at the Salt Rock Gap parking area in Nantahala National Forest.

Hike down the old road behind the gate, which is Panthertown Valley Trail (#474). Turn right at the first fork onto Wilderness Falls Trail. Follow this trail down about 3/4 of a mile, passing Wilderness Falls to the end at Deep Gap Trail (#449). Turning right on this trail would cross over Frolictown Falls above the waterfall. Go straight on a short scramble to go to the base.

Frozen Creek Shoals:

Trailhead GPS: 35.09627, -82.87550 (Pull off on Frozen Creek Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.09600,-82.87567

Frozen Creek Shoals is a roadside waterfall on Frozen Creek in Transylvania County. It's on private property, but you can get a poor roadside view of the waterfall.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 for about 9 miles and turn left on Frozen Creek Road. Drive 4.1 miles and there's a pull off on the right side. The waterfall is directly below. You can see it from the road, but its obscured by foliage.

Fungi Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27424,-82.26170 (Gated Game Land Access Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27629,-82.25113

Fungi Falls is a tall waterfall on Ostin Creek in Polk County. The waterfall is located in Green River Game Lands. The hike to the falls is a bit over 2 miles round trip and very difficult.

To visit the falls, take exit 59 from I-26 near Saluda. Go north on Holbert Cove Road and drive a total of just under 5 miles to a gated road on the right. Park here without blocking the gate. I believe the road may be open during hunting season, in which case you could drive to the end and cut about 1.5 miles off the hike.

From the trailhead, hike (or drive if the gate is open) down the gated game lands access road to the end in about three-quarters of a mile. Note that the road borders private property so stay on the road until the end. At the end of the road, hike over the jeep mound and cross Ostin Creek. There's some semblance of a path heading downstream, but it is difficult to follow. You will pass by the top of Fungi Falls and may be able to hear it. As the path bears right around a ridge, look for a smaller path to the left and take this path. It heads down to a small tributary. Cross the tributary and follow it down to Ostin Creek. There's no path and it's extremely steep, so very difficult bushwhacking. The base of Fungi Falls is right where the tributary flows into Ostin Creek. The views aren't great and you can't see the entire waterfall.

Gage Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.28636,-82.97369 (Pull-off on FR-4648)

Waterfall GPS: 35.29245,-82.97491

Gage Creek Falls is a small but scenic waterfall on Gage Creek in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in the Nanatahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is about a mile round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head west on US-64 from Brevard for about 8 miles and turn right on NC-215 north just before Rosman. Drive just under 14 miles and turn left on Charleys Creek Road. Go about 5.2 miles and turn right on the gravel Harris Cemetery Lane right before a bridge over Gage Creek. In about a quarter-mile, bear right at the fork onto Forest Road 4648 and go just under three quarters of a mile and pull off before the road fords Gage Creek.

From the pull-off hike up the old road to the right (not FR-4648) and cross Gage Creek in about 0.1 miles. The old road picks up on the other side and continue to follow Gage Creek upstream. The waterfall is in less than a half-mile. It's not a big waterfall, but I thought it was very scenic and worth the rather easy hike to visit.

Gemini Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27909,-82.84265 (Pull-off on FR-475)

Waterfall GPS: 35.28188,-82.85385

Gemini Falls is an 80-foot waterfall on a tributary of Laurel Fork in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 2 miles round trip and very difficult.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from the intersection with US-64 east of Brevard. Go 5.3 miles and turn left on FR-475 towards the Fish Hatchery. Drive a total of 4.8 miles on FR-475, which turns to gravel. Just after a bridge over Laurel Fork, park at the small pull-off on the left.

From the pull-off, cross back over the bridge and pick up a faint path on the left that follows Laurel Fork upstream. In about 0.5 miles, you'll have to scramble past a rock wall above Lower Laurel Fork Falls. Shortly past here, the trail turns right and leads to a crossing of a tributary. Don't cross, but continue following the tributary upstream for about 0.3 miles to the waterfall. There's no trail, but the forest is relatively open if you don't get too close to the creek. It gets very steep towards then end.

Glassmine Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.73430,-82.34435 (Mile Post 361.2 on Blue Ridge Parkway)

Waterfall GPS: 35.73524,-82.33179

Glassmine Falls is an 800-foot waterfall on Glassmine Branch in Buncombe County. The waterfall is located on land that is part of the Asheville watershed and so access is prohibited. However, you can see it from an overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

To visit the falls, get on the Blue Ridge Parkway going northbound from Asheville. The overlook is at mile post 361.2, in between Craggy Gardens and Mount Mitchell. Although it's high, the watershed is small and there might not be a waterfall during dry times. It's also rather far away, but the overlook makes a worthwhile stop even if you don't come to see the waterfall.

Glen Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.03345,-83.23560 (Glen Falls Scenic Area parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.03153,-83.23840

Glen Falls is a spectacular series of waterfalls on East Fork Overlook Creek in Macon County, just outside Highlands. The waterfall is located in the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest.

To visit the falls, turn onto NC-106 east from the US-64 in downtown Highlands and drive 1.8 miles. At the sign for Glen Falls Scenic Area, turn left onto Holt Road and then an immediate right onto Glen Falls Road (gravel). Follow this road for 1.1 miles to the parking area at the turnaround.

From the parking area, follow the Glen Falls Trail (#8) as it heads downstream along East Fork Overlook Creek, soon reaching to top of the waterfall. You can't see much of the waterfall from here, but the views looking out over Blue Valley are fantastic.

Continue down the stairs and switchbacks to reach the upper portion of the falls, which is about a 70-foot total drop with a split free fall and cascades.

This would impressive by itself, but there's more. Continue heading down to reach the second falls, a 60-foot cascade. I think this is the most scenic part of the waterfall. The path continues down to a lower falls, but I haven't been down to that one yet.

Glen Burney Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.13263,-81.68043 (Glen Burney Trail Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 36.12347,-81.68413

Glen Burney Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on New Years Creek in Watauga County. The waterfall is located along the Glen Burney Trail in land owned by the town of Blowing Rock. The hike to the waterfall is about 2 miles round trip or a little longer if including Glen Marie Falls. See my Glen Burney Trail page for directions and more description.

Glen Marie Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.13263,-81.68043 (Glen Burney Trail Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 36.12151,-81.68448

Glen Marie Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on New Years Creek in Caldwell County. The waterfall is located along the Glen Burney Trail in land owned by the town of Blowing Rock. The hike to the waterfall is about 2.5 miles round trip and includes Glen Burney Falls and the Cascades. See my Glen Burney Trail page for directions and more description.

Gragg Prong Falls:

Gragg Prong Falls is a long sliding waterfall over exposed bedrock along its namesake creek in Avery County. The waterfall is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Gragg Prong Upper Falls:

Gragg Prong Upper Falls is a series of short drops and slides along its namesake creek in Avery County. The waterfall is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Granny Burrell Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.16793,-83.03980 (Salt Rock Gap parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.16284,-83.02870

Granny Burrell Falls is a 12-foot sliding waterfall on Panthertown Creek in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in Panthertown Valley in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 2.5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-64 from Cashiers for about 2 miles and turn left on Cedar Creek Road. Drive 2.3 miles and turn right on Breedlove Road. Drive 3.5 miles to the end at the Salt Rock Gap parking area in Nantahala National Forest.

Hike down the old road behind the gate, which is Panthertown Valley Trail (#474). Stay straight on Panthertown Valley Trail at the first two forks and descend to another junction. Turn right on Mac's Gap Trail (#482) and go about 0.3 miles to another intersection after crossing Panthertown Creek. Turn right on Granny Burrell Falls (#486) and the waterfall will be on the right in a short distance.

Grassy Creek Falls (DuPont State Forest):

Trailhead GPS: 35.19108,-82.62330 (High Falls Parking Area)

Waterfall GPS: 35.19527,-82.60854

Grassy Creek Falls is a sliding waterfall on its namesake creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in DuPont State Forest. The hike to the falls is about four miles round trip and moderate in difficult. See my DuPont State Forest page for more details and description.

Grassy Creek Falls (Little Switzerland):

Trailhead GPS: 35.85048,-82.09204 (Pull-off on Grassy Creek Falls Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.85630,-82.08510

Grassy Creek Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on its namesake in Mitchell County. The waterfall is located on private property but the landowners are nice enough to allow public access. The hike to the falls is about 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head north from Marion on US-221 for about 12 miles and turn left on NC-226 north. Drive just over 5 miles up the curvy road. At the top, turn right to stay on NC-226, go under the Blue Ridge Parkway and right again to get on the parkway. Turn right to go southbound on the Blue Ridge Parkway for 3 miles to milepost 334 and turn left towards Chestnut Grove Church Road. Turn right to under the parkway again and then immediately right onto Grassy Creek Falls Road. This road is private, so only park at the top.

From the parking area, hike down the road for a little more than a quarter-mile to a crossing of Grassy Creek. In another quarter-mile, the road curves to the right at a blue gate. A smaller road splits to the right and has a chain across. Follow this road another quarter-mile or so to the falls. There are scramble paths splitting from the road that lead down to creek level.

Graveley Falls:

Graveley Falls is a 20-foot waterfall on South Prong Glady Fork in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located on land that will be part of Headwaters State Forest. Since the forest is not yet open to the public, I'll wait to to post GPS or directions.

Great Falls of the Roanoke:

Trailhead GPS: 36.42789,-77.59175 (River Falls Park)

Waterfall GPS: 36.42887,-77.59015

Great Falls of the Roanoke is a series of rapids along Roanoke River in Halifax and Northhampton Counties. The waterfall is visible from River Falls Park, owned by the town of Weldon. The waterfall is viewable from the parking area - no hike required.

To visit the falls, head east from Roanoke Rapids on US-158 for about 3 miles to Weldon. Turn left on US-158/US-301 north and go about 0.2 miles then turn right on Rockfish Drive to enter Rock Falls Park. The waterfall is more rapids than true waterfall. However, in the 19th century, it posed a significant obstacle to navigation on the Roanoke River. The Roanoke Canal was constructed to bypass the waterfall. Today, the Roanoke Canal Trail follows the old path of the canal.

Green Mountain Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.11411, -81.77794 (Pull off on US-221)

Waterfall GPS: 36.11428,-81.77848

Green Mountain Falls is a roadside waterfall along US-221 outside Blowing Rock on the Caldwell-Watauga County line. It's about twenty feet tall and quite scenic for a roadside waterfall.

To visit the waterfall, head south on US-221 from Blowing Rock for about 8 miles. Right at the Caldwell-Watauga County line, park in the pulloff on the side of the road. The waterfall is visible on the right side of the road if you're heading south from Blowing Rock. You can hop down to the creek from the road for the best views of the waterfall. The waterfall continues below US-221.

Greenland Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.15766,-82.99869 (Cold Mountain Gap Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.15089,-82.99813

Greenland Creek Falls is a 50-foot waterfall on Greenland Creek in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-64 from Lake Toxaway and turn left to get on NC-281 north. In just under a mile, bear left to get on Cold Mountain Road. Go 5.7 miles to the end of the road and turn left onto the gravel road. Go a short ways and turn right to reach the parking area. This is the Cold Mountain Gap access to Panthertown Valley.

Pick up Mac's Gap Trail (#482) at the start of the parking area and descend through the powerline clearing towards Greenland Creek. Where Greenland Creek Trail (#488) goes right, continue straight on the combined trail. Mac's Gap Trail splits right to cross the creek; stay left on Greenland Creek Trail for about 0.3 miles to the end at the base of Greenland Creek Falls.

Grogan Creek Waterfall:

Trailhead GPS: 35.28431,-82.79172 (Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education Parking Lot)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27187,-82.80870

Waterfall on Grogan Creek is 20-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Transylvania County. It's located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. The hike to the falls is about 4 miles round trip and moderate; you'll pass Waterfall on Cedar Rock Creek on the way.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from US-64 for 5.2 miles and turn left on Forest Road 475 at the sign for the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and Pisgah Fish Hatchery. Go about 1.5 miles and turn left into the large parking lot for the wildlife center/fish hatchery.

Walk to the back of the parking lot and onto the gated road and then turn right onto the orange-blazed Cat Gap Loop Trail (#120) right after the bridge. In about a mile, you'll pass Waterfall on Cedar Rock Creek and then a campsite. Shortly after the campsite, turn right on the blue-blazed Butter Gap Trail. The trail passes through Picklesimer Fields and then heads upstream along Grogan Creek. About a mile from the turn, you should be able to hear the waterfall down and to the left. Scramble down from the trail to the base of the waterfall.

Gunter Fork Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.75159,-83.10977 (Big Creek Trailhead)

Waterfall GPS: 35.69641,-83.19599

Gunter Fork Falls is a waterfall on its namesake, a tributary of Big Creek, in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Big Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is 16 miles round trip and difficult.

To visit the falls, head west from Asheville on I-40 for around 50 miles and cross into Tennessee. Take the first exit, 451 and turn left at the end of the off-ramp to go under the interstate. Turn right and then left on Tobes Creek Road to cross Pigeon River. Immediately after the bridge, turn left on Waterville Road to head back into North Carolina. In about 2 miles, the road will enter the park and turn to gravel. Go about another mile to the Big Creek day-use parking area.

Pick up the Big Creek Trail right before the parking lot. This trail passes Midnight Hole, Mouse Creek Falls, Swallow Fork Trail and Low Gap Trail, crossing the creek twice on a large bridge. After almost 6 miles, the trail becomes Camel Gap Trail after passing the Upper Walnut Bottom Horse Campsite. In about a half-mile on Camel Gap Trail, turn left on Gunter Fork Trail. Almost immediately, is a difficult crossing of Big Creek. Do not attempt if the water level is up. Across Big Creek, Gunter Fork Trail crosses Gunter Fork a total of five times. At the first crossing, I had to wade but could rock hop the rest. The fifth crossing is right at the base of Gunter Fork Falls.

Gunter Fork Lower Waterfall:

Trailhead GPS: 35.75159,-83.10977 (Big Creek Trailhead)

Waterfall GPS: 35.69666,-83.19349

Lower Gunter Fork Waterfall is a scenic waterfall on its namesake, a tributary of Big Creek, in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Big Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is 15 miles round trip and difficult.

To visit the falls, follow the directions to Gunter Fork Falls above. Between the third and fourth crossing of Gunter Fork, you can see the waterfall from the trail and a scramble path leads down to the base.

Harper Creek Falls:

Harper Creek Falls is a beautiful double waterfall on its namesake creek in Caldwell County. There are great swimming holes beneath both sections of the waterfall, which is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Hebron Colony Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.13891,-81.72748 (Price Park Picnic Area Parking, MP 296.4)

Waterfall GPS: 36.15462,-81.73450

Hebron Colony Falls is a waterfall over the Hebron Rock Colony along Boone Fork in Watauga County. The waterfall is located in Julian Price Memorial Park along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock. The hike to the waterfall is about 3 miles round trip and moderately difficult.

To visit the falls, head south from Boone on US-321 for about 6 miles and take the exit towards Flat Top Road. Turn left to get on the Blue Ridge Parkway southbound and drive 4.4 miles to the Price Park Picnic Area on the left.

Just beyond the restrooms, pick up Boone Fork Trail, crossing the creek on a footbridge. At the split, go right on Boone Fork Trail for about 1.5 miles. You'll pass the split with Mountains-to-Sea Trail and shortly after this is a steep path on the right that leads down to the base of Hebron Colony Falls. Seeing the falls requires scrambling around on the huge boulders in the creek.

Herrin Knob Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.29257,-82.94023 (Pull-off on FR-4663)

Waterfall GPS: 35.29625,-82.93784

Herrin Knob Falls is a nice 25-foot waterfall on Tanasee Creek in Jackson County. It's located in the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is about a mile round trip and moderately difficult.

To visit the falls, head to Forest Road 4663 off NC-215. If coming from Brevard, go west on US-64 for about 8 miles and turn right on NC-215 North. Go approximately 14.4 miles and turn left on Forest Road 4663. Alternately, if coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, turn onto NC-215 South and go 2.7 miles to Forest Road 4663 on the right. Go about 3 miles on Forest Road 4663 and pull off on the right immediately after crossing Tanasee Creek.

Hike back across the bridge on FR-4663 and turn right on an old logging road following Tanasee Creek upstream on river-left. In about 0.25 miles, the old road crosses the creek and heads away from the creek. Get off the road after crossing the creek and bushwhack upstream on river-right side about another 0.25 miles to the waterfall. The forest is pretty open so it's an easy bushwhack.

Hickory Branch Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.69116,-82.19653 (Parking at Curtis Creek Campground on FSR-482)

Waterfall GPS: 35.69358,-82.18821

Hickory Branch Falls is a 30-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in McDowell County. The waterfall is located in the Curtis Creek area in the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 1 mile round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-70 from Old Fort for about 2 miles and turn left on Curtis Creek Road. Curtis Creek Road changes to gravel and becomes Forest Service Road 482 when it enters the forest. Drive a total of 5 miles to the Curtis Creek Campground and park on the left just after crossing over Curtis Creek on a bridge.

The hike begins just beyond the campground on the orange-blazed Hickory Branch Trail (#213). Cross the road from the parking area and walk in between two campsites to the trailhead. The trail heads up and then down a ridge and then crosses Hickory Branch. Once across, turn left and follow the creek upstream. There's another creek crossing and then the trail swings around a small tributary. As the trail approaches Hickory Branch again, look for a side path that heads down to the creek and upstream to the base of the waterfall. A tree had fallen right on it when I visited so I had to get to the other side of the creek for a picture.

Hickory Branch Upper Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.69116,-82.19653 (Parking at Curtis Creek Campground on FSR-482)

Waterfall GPS: 35.69316,-82.18422

Upper Hickory Branch Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in McDowell County. The waterfall is located in the Curtis Creek area in the Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 1 mile round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, follow the directions to Hickory Branch Falls above and continue on the trail about another quarter mile, crossing Hickory Branch twice and then a tributary. After the last crossing and before the trail turns left, go straight to the waterfall. It's pretty high up so best to visit during high water.

Hickory Nut Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.43113,-82.24868 (Upper Parking Lot at Chimney Rock State Park)

Waterfall GPS: 35.43323,-82.25948

Hickory Nut Falls is a tall waterfall on Fall Creek in Rutherford County. The waterfall is located in Chimney Rock State Park. The hike to the falls is about 1.5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east from Asheville on I-40 and take exit 53B to US-74 Alt. Follow US-74 Alt for about 20 miles to Chimney Rock Village and turn right to enter the park. The park office is on the right and the entrance gate is about a mile past the turn. After paying admission, continue up to the last parking lot up the mountain. If you are unable to park here, there is a shuttle from the lower parking lot or you can hike up Four Seasons Trail.

Hickory Nut Falls Trail begins in the last switchback up the road before the parking area. The trail runs just under 3/4 of a mile to a viewing deck at the waterfall. The park claims that waterfall is over 400 feet, but it's closer to 250 feet high from the viewing deck to the top of the waterfall. Not sure what they're counting as the bottom. It's a beautiful waterfall nonetheless, especially with good water flow.

Hidden Falls (Hanging Rock):

Trailhead GPS: 36.39393,-80.26679 (Hanging Rock Visitor Center Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 36.39913,-80.26033

Hidden Falls in Stokes County is a small waterfall along Indian Creek in Hanging Rock State Park. The waterfall is about a thirteen-foot tiered drop. Although it's not a very impressive waterfall, it's right on the way to Window Falls and worth a quick stop. See my Hanging Rock State Park page for directions and more description.

Hidden Falls (Horsepasture):

Trailhead GPS: 35.08947,-82.95181 (Grassy Ridge Parking Area in Gorges State Park)

Waterfall GPS: 35.08996,-82.96349

Hidden Falls is a small waterfall on Horsepasture River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. However, the only legal access to the waterfall is through Gorges State Park. The hike to the falls is just under 3 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 for about 18 miles, passing Lake Toxaway, and turn left on NC-281. In just under a mile, turn left into Grassy Ridge section of Gorges State Park and drive through to the Rainbow Falls Trailhead parking. Following the orange-blazed Rainbow Falls Trail departs the state park and enters the national forest in about three-quarters of a mile. In a little over a mile, the trail gets a little steeper as it heads up to Rainbow Falls. Look for a scramble path just before Rainbow Falls to the left that leads down to the river just below Hidden Falls. It's a small waterfall but a nice swimhole and you can swim behind the falls.

High Falls (Beech Creek):

Trailhead GPS: 34.99875,-83.55669 (Lower parking along FSR-56)

Trailhead GPS: 35.01413,-83.55614 (Upper parking at end of FSR-56)

Waterfall GPS: 35.01479,-83.52786

High Falls is a spectacular 100-foot waterfall on Beech Creek in Clay County. The waterfall is located in the Southern Nantahala Wilderness in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is part of the strenuous 8.5-mile Beech Creek loop hike. See my Southern Nantahala Wilderness page for directions and more description.

High Falls (Little River):

Trailhead GPS: 35.19108,-82.62330 (High Falls Parking Area)

Waterfall GPS: 35.19282,-82.61361

High Falls is a 100-foot waterfall on Little River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in DuPont State Forest. The hike to the falls is about a mile round trip or longer if you include other waterfalls on the river. See my DuPont State Forest page for more details and description.

High Falls (South Fork Mills River):

Trailhead GPS: 35.36656,-82.73875 (Parking Area at end of FSR 476)

Waterfall GPS: 35.34926,-82.73215

High Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on South Fork Mills River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 4 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty, including a river wade.

To visit the falls, get on US-276 north from the intersection of US-64 east of Brevard. Drive 11.8 miles and turn right on Forest Service Road 1206 (Yellow Gap Road). Go 3.3 miles on this gravel road and turn right on FSR 476 (Wolf Ford Road). Follow this road for about 1.3 miles to the end and park before the gate.

Begin hiking down South Mills River Trail (#133), which is an extension of FSR 476 past the gate. In just over a half-mile, there is a deep pool called Otter Hole that looks like a good place to swim when the weather is warm. In about a mile, the trail turns to the right and crosses the river on a big bridge. Don't cross on the bridge. Instead continue going straight and cross Billy Branch and continue following the river downstream on the same side of the river. There's no official trail, but the path is pretty easy to follow. In about a half-mile, cross West Ridge Branch. Soon after this, the trail curves to the left and then soon you'll come to the river crossing. There is a rope strung across the river to assist in wading. Once across, continue to follow the path downstream and soon you should be able to hear the waterfall and see it through the trees. A steep scramble path leads to a nice area at the base of the falls. Despite the name, the waterfall is not particularly high. I guess it's the highest waterfall on this river and that's where it got the name.

High Falls (Thompson River):

Trailhead GPS: 35.07795,-82.99367 (Pull off on Brewer Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.07030,-82.99432

High Falls is a 50-foot waterfall on Thompson River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

To visit the falls, head west on US-64 from Brevard towards Lake Toxaway. In Lake Toxaway, go left to stay on US-64/NC-281 and go about 2.5 miles, then turn left onto NC-281 south. Drive 3.7 miles, passing Gorges State Park on the left, and turn left onto Brewer Road and park along the side of the road.

Right at the turn for Brewer Road, start hiking up the gated logging road. In about a mile from the start, you will see a path that splits to the right. This is the trail to High Falls. After this side trail, the main trail switchbacks down and leads to a ford over Thompson River. If you reach the ford, you've too far. Follow the side trail, which curves around a ridge and follows Thompson River upstream. In about a half-mile from the turn, there is a side trail on the left as the trail starts to curve right. You should be able to hear High Falls from here. Take the side trail to the left that leads steeply down to the river at the base of High Falls. You can't really see the waterfall from here, so you'll have to wade across the river for a good view of the falls.

High Falls (West Fork Tuckasegee River):

Trailhead GPS: 35.21035,-83.14788 (Shoal Creek Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.20414,-83.15984

High Falls on West Fork Tuckasegee River is a 120-foot waterfall in Jackson County. The waterfall is located on property owned by Duke Energy, but the public is allowed access. The hike to the falls is a little less than 4 miles round trip.

To visit the falls, head north from US-64 in Cashiers on NC-107 for 8.4 miles. Turn left on Shoal Creek Road; it's a sharp turn, almost 90 degrees. Right away, you should see a gated road on the right. Park along the gravel road here, without blocking the gate or the road.

From the parking area, hike down the gated road. Pay attention to the signs. This is private property, but the landowner is nice enough to allow the general public access to view the natural resources. Please be respectful and abide by the rules. In just over a quarter mile, there is a fork - go left. The trail loops around and follows West Fork Tuckaseegee River upstream. In about 1.5 miles from the start, you'll pass Thurston Hatcher Falls across the river. It's about another quarter-mile to the base of High Falls. The picture below is what it normally looks like.

The waterfall is below the dam on Lake Glenville and most of the water is diverted for hydroelectric generation. A few times a year, Duke Energy opens the dam for whitewater kayakers. The following picture is what it looks like during a whitewater release (and what it used to look like before the dam was constructed).

Here's a video of the falls during a whitewater release:

High Shoals Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.60225,-81.62949 (Jacob Fork Parking Area in South Mountains State Park)

Waterfall GPS: 35.59448,-81.63553

High Shoals Falls is a 50-foot waterfall on Jacob Fork in Burke County. The waterfall is located in South Mountains State Park. The hike to the falls is under 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, take exit 104 from I-40 in Morganton onto Enola Road. In about 0.7 miles, turn turn left on Old Colony Road and then right onto Old NC-18. Follow this road for 10 miles, then turn right on Ward Gap Road and go 1.5 miles. Turn right on South Mountain Park Road and follow this into the park and park at the last parking area at the end of the road (Jacob Fork Parking Area).

The High Shoals Falls Trail begins at the far end of the parking lot. The trail is initially an old road then becomes more of a trail as it follow Jacob Fork upstream. As you approach the waterfall, the trail becomes steeper and there are a number of steps to reach the viewing platform for the waterfall.

Hooker Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.20319,-82.61900 (Hooker Falls Parking Area in DuPont State Forest)

Waterfall GPS: 35.20191,-82.62338

Hooker Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on Little River in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in DuPont State Forest. The hike to the falls is less than a mile round trip and easy. See my DuPont State Forest page for more details and description.

Horseshoe Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.22208,-82.97241 (Pull-off on Wolf Mountain Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.23081,-82.96668

Horseshoe Falls is an 80-foot waterfall on a tributary of Tanasee Creek in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 2.5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty with a bushwhack at the end.

To visit the falls, head north on NC-281 from Lake Toxaway for about 11 miles and turn right on Tanasee Creek Road. The turn is right after the bridge over Tanasee Creek where it starts to form Tanasee Creek Lake. Go 1 mile and turn left/straight onto Wolf Mountain Road. The pull-off will be on the right in 0.4 miles. Note that Wolf Mountain Road becomes 4WD shortly after the pull-off.

An old logging road starts from the end of the parking area and follows Tanasee Creek upstream high above the creek. In just over a half-mile you'll come to an open section after crossing a small creek. Go right to stay on National Forest property. Continue another 3/4 of a mile and you'll come to another creek crossing. Horseshoe Falls is upstream on this creek. Cross the creek and bushwhack up the river-left side. You'll have to maneuver around some cliffs to come out at the side of the waterfall.

House Creek Tributary Waterfall:

Trailhead GPS: 35.81146,-78.69106 (Horton Street Parking for House Creek Trail)

Waterfall GPS: 35.81474,-78.68794

Waterfall on Tributary of House Creek is a seasonal waterfall in Wake County. The waterfall is located just off House Creek Trail, a part of Raleigh's Capital Area Greenway, near Lake Boone Trail. The hike to the waterfall is less than a mile round trip and easy. This waterfall only exists after a heavy rain, but when it's flowing, it's quite scenic considering it's inside the Raleigh Beltline. See my Capital Area Greenway page for directions and description.

Hungry River Upper Waterfall:

Trailhead GPS: 35.29845,-82.35119 (Pull off on Big Hungry Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.29971,-82.35055

Upper Waterfall on Hungry River is a cascading waterfall below an old dam in Henderson County. The waterfall is located in Green River Game Lands. The waterfall is visible from the road or a short path leads to a closer view.

To visit the falls, take I-26 to Hendersonville and get off at exit 53 for Upward Road. Go east on Upward Road for about 1.5 miles and turn right on Big Hungry Road. Bear left at the first fork in a half-mile to stay on Big Hungry Road and right at the second fork to stay on the road. Drive a total of 2.4 miles from Upward Road to a pull off on the right just before the bridge over Hungry River. The waterfall is just upstream from the bridge and there is a path right before the bridge that leads to the base.

Hunt Fish Falls:

Hunt Fish Falls in Avery County is a waterfall along Lost Cove Creek in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. It consists of 2 drops of about 10 feet. It's not a huge or impressive waterfall, but the swimming opportunities are great and as such, it's a very popular spot, especially on a warm summer weekend day. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Indian Camp Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.08947,-82.95181 (Grassy Ridge Parking Area in Gorges State Park)

Waterfall GPS: 35.08847,-82.93984

Indian Camp Falls is a 20-foot waterfall on Bearwallow Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in Gorges State Park. The hike to the waterfall is about 4 miles round trip and very difficult, including bushwhacking. See my Gorges State Park website for directions and more description.

Indian Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.46445,-83.43410 (Deep Creek Trailhead Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.47275,-83.42731

Indian Creek Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Swain County. The waterfall is located in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is an easy 1.6 miles round trip.

Jawbone Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.15766,-82.99869 (Cold Mountain Gap Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.17324,-83.00349

Jawbone Falls is a sliding waterfall on Tuckasegee River in Jackson County. The waterfall is located in Panthertown Valley Backcountry Area in Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 4.5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head east on US-64 from Lake Toxaway and turn left to get on NC-281 north. In just under a mile, bear left to get on Cold Mountain Road. Go 5.7 miles to the end of the road and turn left onto the gravel road. Go a short ways and turn right to reach the parking area. This is the Cold Mountain Gap access to Panthertown Valley.

Pick up Panthertown Valley Trail (#474) at the end of the parking area and follow it down the switchbacks. In about a mile, turn right on Devils Elbow Trail (#448). Go about 1 mile and after crossing Little Green Creek is a split with Riding Ford Trail (#450). Bear left on Riding Ford Trail and descend to the ford of the river. Do not cross, but go left and follow a path through the woods to a campsite and to the river at the base of the falls.

John Neal Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.21293,-82.93822 (Pull-off on Tanasee Gap Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.20432,-82.92335

John Neal Falls Falls is a 50-foot waterfall on a tributary of Parker Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 4 miles and difficult, including multiple creek crossings.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 and turn right on NC-215. Go 8.7 miles and turn left on Tanasee Gap Road. Drive 4.6 miles on Tanasee Gap Road to a pull-off on the left at the gated Forest Road 9999.

Hike the FR-9999 for about a mile and turn left just before the road crosses Parker Creek on an old logging road following the creek downstream. Follow this road for a total of about a mile, crossing the creek a total of 6 times. After the fifth crossing, you should be on river-right side of Parker Creek. Shortly there will be an island in the creek where the tributary flows in. Cross before the island and follow the tributary a short ways to the waterfall.

John's Jump:

Trailhead GPS: 35.06716,-83.00762 (Pull off on NC-281)

Waterfall GPS: 35.06782,-83.00720

John's Jump is 25-foot waterfall on Mill Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest.

To visit the falls, head west on US-64 from Brevard towards Lake Toxaway. In Lake Toxaway, go left to stay on US-64/NC-281 and go about 2.5 miles, then turn left onto NC-281 south. Drive 5 miles, passing Gorges State Park on the left, and pull into a grassy parking area on the side of the road on the left. The parking area is less than 0.1 miles past the trailhead for D.E.W. Falls. From the north side of the grassy parking area, a short, but steep trail leads down to the base of the waterfall.

Jumping Fish Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.48429,-78.90368 (Raven Rock Bridle Trailhead Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.48136,-78.91014

Jumping Fish Falls is a 5-foot waterfall on Avents Creek in Harnett County. The waterfall is located in Raven Rock State Park. The hike to the waterfall is about a mile round trip and moderate.

To visit the falls, head north from Lillington on US-401 N/US-421 S. After crossing Cape Fear River, turn left to stay on US-401 N where US-421 S goes left. In 3.3 miles, turn left on Christian Light Road. Drive 3.7 miles and turn left on River Road. In 1.6 miles, turn left into the bridle trailhead parking for Raven Rock. Hike the west loop trail to the ford over Avents Creek and the waterfall is immediately upstream.

Juney Whank Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.46445,-83.43410 (Deep Creek Trailhead Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.46651,-83.43504

Juney Whank Falls is a waterfall on Juney Whank Branch in Swain County in two sections, totalling 90 feet. The waterfall is located in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the waterfall is 0.8 miles round trip.

Kiesee Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27117,-82.88791 (Pull-off on FSR-140)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27917,-82.88204

Kiesee Falls is a scenic waterfall on Kiesee Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is less than two miles round trip, but extremely difficult.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 for about 10 miles. Near Rosman, turn right on NC-215. Drive for 10.5 miles and turn right on Forest Service Road 140 (Courthouse Creek Road). Drive 2.3 miles on the gravel road to the second sharp left hand curve and find a place to pull over. If there's no room at the here, drive a short ways further to find a bigger pull-off.

The hike to the falls begins on the old path leading up from the curve. There is a yellow Closed to Vehicles sign to know you're on the right path. The first half-mile is pretty easy to follow until you come to a split. Left leads to Upper Kiesee Falls. Go right and the trail soon becomes little better than nothing. You'll have to bushwhack around rhododendron and keep following the path upstream along Kiesee Creek. In about 0.2 miles from the split, the path ends. You have to climb down on the rocks and cross the creek and head upstream on the opposite side. It's mostly a bushwhack through dog hobble. Soon you'll come to a small waterfall just downstream of Kiesee Falls. Climb up from here on the overgrown path to a point where its an open cliff face. Some people climb up the cliff face and scale across and then go down to the base of the waterfall. I think I found an easier way. Carefully go down the exposed rock face towards the creek and use the many down trees in the creek here to get upstream to the base.

Kiesee Upper Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27117,-82.88791 (Pull-off on FSR-140)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27954,-82.88155

Upper Kiesee Falls is a waterfall on Kiesee Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is about 1.5 miles round trip and difficult.

To visit the falls, follow the directions to Kiesee Falls above. When you reach the fork at 0.5 miles, bear left and go about another quarter-mile to another split. It was marked with a cairn when we visited. Bear right and follow the path down to the creek. The last section is a steep, slick rock and makes it difficult to get down to see the waterfall. Once down, rock hop across the creek for the best views.

Kuykendall Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.22781,-82.80789 (Pull-off on FR-471)

Waterfall GPS: 35.24463,-82.78777

Kuykendall Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on Kuykendall Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is more than 9 miles round trip and difficult.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 for about 3 miles and turn right at Catheys Creek Road. Make an immediate left to stay on Catheys Creek Road. Drive a total of 3.1 miles on this road, which becomes gravel and enters the forest to become Forest Road 471. Turn right at gated FR-5361 and park without blocking the gate.

Hike down FR-5361 for 4.5 miles. It's hard to judge this distance while hiking, but there are a couple landmarks. At around 2.2 miles, FR-5361A comes in from the right. At around 3 miles, FR-5361B splits off to the right at a clearing. At about 3.8 miles you'll come to another clearing with views of Cedar Rock Mountain. In another half a mile or so, you'll cross a drainage and then make a sharp left turn around a ridge. At this point you want to get off the road and bushwhack down towards the sound of the waterfall. It's really steep, but pretty open so you won't have to wade through rhododendron until you get down to creek level.

Lanier Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.46375,-78.91360 (Raven Rock Visitor Center Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.47909,-78.93066

Lanier Falls is a small drop on Cape Fear River in Harnett County. The waterfall is located in Raven Rock State Park. It's more of a rapid than a waterfall, but it's marked on the topo map and rather impressive considering how far east it is. The hike to the falls is about 5 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head west from Lillington on US-421 north for 6.2 miles. Turn right on Raven Rock Road and drive to the end at the Raven Rock visitor center and park. Pick up the Campbell Creek Loop Trail. The Lanier Falls spur trail is about half-way through the loop.

Laughing Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.29186,-82.69910 (End of Turkey Creek Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.29521,-82.70208

Laughing Falls is a 50-foot cascading waterfall on South Prong Turkey Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is less than a mile round trip, but with a steep scramble down to the base.

To visit the falls, head east out of Brevard on US-64. Where US-64 goes right, go straight on NC-280 for 0.8 miles and turn left on Old NC-280. In 0.2 miles, turn left on Turkey Creek Road and go 0.7 miles to the end at a fork with both ways gated. Do not block the gates.

Hike down the right gated road to a crossing of South Prong Turkey Creek. I was able to rock hop in low water but it might be tough in high water. Right after the crossing, turn left on a more overgrown road following the creek upstream. Go about a quarter mile and you can hear the waterfall and maybe see it through the trees. There's no real trail to the base and it's steep, but you can follow a path that others have used.

Laurel Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 36.25405,-81.85268 (Pull-off on US-321)

Waterfall GPS: 36.25259,-81.85287

Laurel Creek Falls, also called Trash Can Falls, is a 15-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Watauga County. The pool at the base of the waterfall is a popular swim hole with students at nearby Appalachian State University. The hike to the falls is very short.

To visit the falls, head west of Boone on US-421. At the junction, go west on US-321 for 5.4 miles to a pull-off on the right. It's just a little ways past the bridge over Watauga River. Park here and be sure to be completely off the road. Cross the road and there's a makeshift path the leads upstream along Laurel Creek to the waterfall. There are some cascades right above the road. The waterfall and swim hole is just above these cascades. I believe the nickname for this waterfall came from the fact that there used to be a dumpster at the pull-off and this was used as a landmark to find it. It seems much too nice to be called Trash Can!

Laurel Fork Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27909,-82.84265 (Pull-off on FR-475)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27900,-82.85757

Laurel Fork Falls is a 50-foot waterfall on Laurel Fork, a tributary of Davidson River, in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is around 2 miles round trip and very difficult.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from the intersection with US-64 east of Brevard. Go 5.3 miles and turn left on FR-475 towards the Fish Hatchery. Drive a total of 4.8 miles on FR-475, which turns to gravel. Just after a bridge over Laurel Fork, park at the small pull-off on the left.

From the pull-off, cross back over the bridge and pick up a faint path on the left that follows Laurel Fork upstream. In about 0.5 miles, you'll have to scramble past a rock wall above Lower Laurel Fork Falls. Shortly past here, the trail turns right and leads to a crossing of a tributary. Cross here and go right to head back towards Laurel Fork and follow the creek upstream. There's not much of a trail but it's pretty open if you stay a little ways away from the creek. It gets really rocky and steep towards then end and there are some huge boulders to navigate around at the end. The water level was way up and when I visited and I couldn't get down to the base.

Laurel Fork Lower Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.27909,-82.84265 (Pull-off on FR-475)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27974,-82.84957

Lower Laurel Fork Falls is a 25-foot waterfall on Laurel Fork, a tributary of Davidson River, in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is under a mile round trip and moderately difficult, but usually is part of the more difficult hike to Laurel Fork Falls.

To visit the waterfall, follow the directions to Laurel Fork Falls above. At the exposed rock section a half-mile in, climb down from the path to the base of Lower Laurel Fork Falls. There's a lot of downfall and I had to wade across the creek for a picture.

Leatherwood Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.09581,-83.85854 (Fires Creek Picnic Area)

Waterfall GPS: 35.09631,-83.85898

Leatherwood Falls is a 30-foot waterfall on Leatherwood Branch, a tributary of Fires Creek, in Clay County. The waterfall is located in the Fires Creek Recreation Area in Tusquitee Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The waterfall is visible from the picnic area, but the view isn't great.

To visit the falls, go north on Tusquitee Street from Hayesville and cross Hiwasee River. Turn left on Fires Creek Road and drive 4.6 miles. Turn right on Fires Creek Wildlife Road and go just under 2 miles to Fires Creek Picnic Area on the left. Leatherwood Falls is visible across Fires Creek from the picnic area. The water level was too high to wade when we visited, so not really a great view.

Lemon Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.19993,-82.86457 (Pull off on Macedonia Church Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.19983,-82.86485

Lemon Falls is a nice 20-foot waterfall on Lamance Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is very short and moderate in difficulty.

To visit the falls, head west from Brevard on US-64 for 8.5 miles and turn right on NC-215 north. Go 6.1 miles and turn left on Macedonia Church Road. Drive 0.6 miles and pull off on the left side of the road where you can get completely off. The waterfall is directly below this spot and you should be able to hear it. There are some big stone steps to climb down to the base.

Linville Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.95595,-81.92844 (Linville Falls Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.94967,-81.92657

Linville Falls is a beautiful waterfall on Linville River in Burke County. The waterfall is located in the Linville Falls area of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The hike to the falls is around 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty, depending on which overlook you go to. See my Linville Falls page for more description and directions.

Little Beartrap Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.37057,-82.93944 (FR-97 before gate)

Waterfall GPS: 35.35597,-82.94760

Little Beartrap Falls is a tall cascading waterfall on Little Beartrap Branch, a tributary of Middle Prong, in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest, just outside Middle Prong Wilderness. The hike to the falls is about 3.5 miles round trip and easy to difficult, depending on how much of the waterfall you want to see.

To visit the falls, head south on NC-215 from Canton for about 13 miles, passing Lake Logan. Just past Sunburst Campground, turn right into Forest Road 97. If coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, go north on NC-215 for about 8.5 miles to FR-97 on the left. Go about a quarter-mile to where the road is gated, just after the ford. If this gate is open, you could drive most of the rest of the way.

Hike (or drive) down FR-97 for about a mile and a half to the second switchback (and park here if you could drive). Head down FR-97H, which follows Middle Prong upstream. In under a quarter-mile, the trail will cross over the middle of Little Beartrap Falls, though the view from the trail isn't great. If you want to see the upper sections, cross the creek and bushwhack up the river-left side. It's steep and very overgrown.

Little Bearwallow Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.47342, -82.33227 (Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trailhead Parking)

Waterfall GPS: 35.46788, -82.33964

Little Bearwallow Falls is a 100-foot waterfall on a tributary of Hickory Creek in Henderson County. The waterfall is located on private property owned by Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy and public access is allowed. The hike to the is around 2.5 miles round trip and moderately steep.

To visit the falls, head east from Asheville on I-40 and take exit 53A for US-74 Alternate East. It's 13.6 miles to the trailhead parking on the left. If coming from Lake Lure, take US-74 Alternate West for about 10 miles to the parking lot on the right.

From the parking area, cross the highway at the crosswalk and pick up the orange-blazed Little Bearwallow Trail across the street. It descends and leads through an orchard before crossing Hickory Creek and starting to head up. This part of the trail is through private property, so stay on the Little Bearwallow Trail. It's blazed and easy to follow. The trail gets steeper as it heads up Little Bearwallow Mountain. In about a mile from the start, you'll climb up some steep rock steps and come out at the base of the waterfall. The falls has a tiny watershed, so best to visit during or right after a heavy rain. This picture below was taken in relatively high water when other waterfalls in the area were really flowing, so I was surprised it was just a wet rock.

Little Bird Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.35109,-82.91248 (Pull-off on NC-215)

Waterfall GPS: 35.34967,-82.91309

Little Bird Falls is a 20-foot cascading waterfall on Green Creek in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Middle Prong Wilderness in Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is less than a half-mile round trip and easy.

To visit the falls, head west out of Brevard on US-64 for about 8 miles to NC-215 near Rosman. Turn right and go a total of 22.8 miles on NC-215, crossing the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the parkway, it's 5.7 miles to the small pull-off on the right just before the road crosses Green Creek. It's grassy and small, so easy to miss.

From the pull-off, cross over Green Creek on the road and pick up a path heading upstream on river-left side. It's about 0.1 miles to the waterfall. It's a small waterfall, but a very lush and green setting. Worth the easy hike to visit.

Little Bradley Falls:

Little Bradley Falls is a pretty 35-foot tiered waterfall on Cove Creek in Green River Game Land. The falls are just a short distance outside of Saluda in Polk County on the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

To visit the falls, take exit 59 on I-26/US-74 for Saluda and turn onto Holbert Cove Road (SR-1142) heading away from Saluda. At just over 3 miles from the exit, stop at the pull-off on the side of the road, just before the road crosses Cove Creek.

The trail to Little Bradley Falls is just over a mile one way. From the parking area, cross the street at the bridge over Cove Creek and pick up the red-blazed trail that follows the creek upstream. About half way down the trail, it crosses the creek. It is possible, but a little tricky, to cross the creek on rocks and logs without getting your feet wet. If the water is too high or you don't feel comfortable, just wade across. The trail continues past the ruins of some old chimneys before reaching the base of the waterfall.

Little Canyon Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.05325,-83.05386 (End of Heady Mountain Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.05059,-83.04761

Little Canyon Falls is a 8-foot waterfall on Whitewater River in Jackson and Transylvania County (the county line runs down the river). The waterfall is located in Nantahala and Pisgah National Forest (in Jackson and Transylvania counties, respectively). The hike to the waterfall is extremely difficult. This waterfall lies within the Upper Whitewater Slot Canyon.

Little Creek Falls (Nantahala Forest):

Trailhead GPS: 35.02535,-83.17362 (Pull off on Rich Gap Road)

Waterfall GPS: 35.02417,-83.17809

Little Creek Falls is a waterfall in multiple sections on its namesake in Macon County. The waterfall is located in the Nantahala Ranger District of Nantahala National Forest. The hike to the falls is under a mile round trip but extremely difficult.

To visit the falls, head east on Main Street from US-64 in Highlands. Continue straight as this becomes Horse Cove Road for 2.6 miles and turn right on Rich Gap Road. Drive 1.4 miles and look for a pull-off near the gated Forest Road 4622.

Hike down FR-4622 for a quarter-mile to a right turn and get off the road and bushwhack down towards the creek. In high water, you should be able to hear it. It's steep and very overgrown, but if you follow the sound of falling water, you should come out at the falls. The upper section is a long cascade, but its very overgrown and difficult to get a good vantage point. I think there's even more further up. It's very steep to get to the base of the lower section, but I thought this part was really beautiful.

Little Creek Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.49243,-83.37091 (Cooper Creek Trout Farm)

Waterfall GPS: 35.50634,-83.37268

Little Creek Falls is a 60-foot waterfall on its namesake creek in Swain County. The waterfall is located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is about 3 miles round trip, but the trailhead is on private property at the Cooper Creek Trout Farm.

To visit the falls, head north on US-19 from Bryson City for about 3 miles and turn left on Cooper Creek Road. The road changes to gravel in about 1.5 miles. Drive a total of about 3.5 miles to Cooper Creek Trout Farm at the end of the road. This is private property, but the owners allow public access. Visitors must sign in and out before hiking and must be off the property at closing time when the gate is locked. View their website for more information before visiting: http://www.coopercreektroutfarm.com/

From the parking area, continue down the road, which enters the park shortly and becomes Cooper Creek Trail. Hike 0.6 miles to a crossing of Little Creek and turn left on Deeplow Gap Trail. This trail follows Little Creek upstream, crossing the creek and then ascending via switchbacks. In under a mile from the turn, the trail crosses the creek again at the base of the waterfall.

Little East Fork Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.38678,-82.89573 (Trail Parking at Camp Daniel Boone)

Waterfall GPS: 35.36636,-82.89168

Little East Fork Falls is a waterfall on Little East Fork Pigeon River in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in Shining Rock Wilderness in Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is about 2.5 miles round trip and moderate except for a very steep climb down to the base.

To visit the falls, head south from Waynesville on US-276 for about 6 miles and turn right on NC-215. Drive about 5 miles and turn left on Little East Fork Road. Go just under 4 miles, passing through Camp Daniel Boone to National Forest Parking area just before a bridge over the river.

Hike across the river on the bridge and head through the camp following Little East Fork Pigeon River upstream. The road enters the Forest and Shining Rock Wilderness and becomes a trail. Go just over a mile to a big, gnarled tree on the left as the trail turns slightly right. A very steep path leads down behind the tree to creek level at the base of the falls. It's also possible to see the waterfall from the trail.

Little Fall Branch Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.75760,-82.97753 (Turnaround on FSR 3526)

Waterfall GPS: 35.75514,-82.97633

Little Fall Branch Falls is a 40-foot waterfall in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Harmon Den area of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is an easy half-mile round trip. The path leading to the falls explodes with wildflowers in late April.

To visit the falls, take exit 7 (Harmon Den) from I-40, shortly before the Tennessee state line. If coming from the east, turn right after exiting onto Cold Springs Creek Road; if coming from the west, turn left. Cold Springs Creek Road immediately turns to gravel as it enters the forest and becomes Forest Service Road 148. In 3.7 miles, turn right on Fall Branch Road (FSR 3526) on go 0.3 miles, passing the picnic area and horse camp. The road is gated at the end - park in the turnaround.

Hike past the gate and you'll cross over Little Fall Branch. Immediately after cross, turn left and follow the creek upstream. There's no official trail, but it's easy to follow the makeshift path where others have gone. In a little over a quarter-mile, you'll reach the base of the waterfall. If you visit in the spring when wildflowers are blooming, it may take a lot longer than expected to reach the waterfall as you'll be stopping so frequently to view the beautiful wildflowers!

Little Lost Cove Creek Upper Waterfall:

The Upper Waterfall on Little Lost Cove Creek is a nice waterfall on its namesake creek in Avery County. It is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Little Lost Cove Creek Lower Waterfall:

The Lower Waterfall on Little Lost Cove Creek is a 50-foot sliding waterfall just downstream of the Upper Waterfall in Avery County. It is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest. See my Wilson Creek Page for directions and more description.

Little Moore Cove Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.30509,-82.77444 (Parking area on US-276)

Waterfall GPS: 35.31174,-82.77876

Little Moore Cove Falls is a nice 25-foot waterfall on a tributary of Moore Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. The hike to the falls is a pleasant 1.5 mile round trip hike.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from US-64 for about 6.7 miles, approximately one mile past Looking Glass Falls. There is a parking area on the right side of the road immediately before the highway crosses Looking Glass Creek on a beautiful old bridge. Alternately, if coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, go south on US-276 for 8.3 miles; the parking area will be on the left.

From the parking area, hike across the creek on the footbridge and follow Moore Cove Trail (#318). This easy three-quarter-mile trail leads along Moore Creek to the waterfall through a beautiful cove forest. In the spring time, this is a great area for wildflowers. There are footbridges over creek crossings, but a few spots can get muddy. The trail ends at a viewing deck for Moore Cove Falls. Just before the end, a path to the left crosses Moore Creek and leads to a campsite. Cross the next creek past the campsite and turn right. Little Moore Cove Falls is just a short ways upstream. It's almost identical to the more popular Moore Cove Falls, but about half the size. It's also much less well known so you may have this one to yourself even if Moore Cove Falls is packed.

Little Wildcat Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.31112,-82.91449 (Pull-off on NC-215)

Waterfall GPS: 35.31145,-82.91456

Little Wildcat Falls is a roadside waterfall on a tributary of West Fork Pigeon River along NC-215 in Haywood County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest near Middle Prong Wilderness.

To visit the falls, head north on NC-215 from (Lake Logan Road) from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Go about 1.5 miles and park in a small pull-off on the right. It's about a quarter-mile before the pull-off for Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades. The waterfall is basically across the street from this pull-off. The water flows down an unnamed tributary that's not on the topo map and flows under NC-215 and into West Fork Pigeon River just upstream of Bubbling Spring Branch.

Log Hollow Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.32642,-82.80194 (Pull-off on FSR 475B)

Waterfall GPS: 35.32384,-82.80789

Log Hollow Falls is a 30-foot cascading waterfall on Log Hollow Branch in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the falls is an easy 1-mile round trip hike on an old road.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from US-64 in Pisgah Forest for 10.3 miles and turn left on Forest Service Road 475B (Headwaters Road). If coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, go south on US-276 for 4.6 miles and turn right on FSR 475B. Drive 1.6 miles on the gravel road to a pull-off in a sharp left-hand curve. There is a large informational Forest Service sign at the pull-off.

Hike down the gated Forest Road 5043 for about a half-mile to the second bridge on this old road, which is over Log Hollow Branch. You can see the waterfall from the bridge, but for a better view, hike up the short path just over the bridge for a closer view of the waterfall.

Log Hollow Upper Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.32642,-82.80194 (Pull-off on FSR 475B)

Waterfall GPS: 35.32410,-82.80901

Upper Log Hollow Falls is a 30-foot waterfall on Log Hollow Branch in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is an just over a mile and mostly easy.

To visit the falls, follow the directions to the trailhead for Log Hollow Falls above. From FS-5043, take the path above Log Hollow Falls on river-right. It's very short to the upper falls, but there's a steep scramble down to the base.

Logging Road Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.32642,-82.80194 (Pull-off on FSR 475B)

Waterfall GPS: 35.32121,-82.81118

Waterfall on Southern Tributary of Log Hollow Branch is a 75-foot waterfall on an unnamed tributary of Log Hollow Branch in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest. The hike to the waterfall is an easy 2-mile round trip on an old road.

To visit the falls, follow the directions to the trailhead for Log Hollow Falls above. Hike down Forest Road 5043 for about a mile and the waterfall is right along the side of the road. Like Discovery Falls on the northern tributary of Log Hollow Branch, this waterfall can have very low water flow, so the best time to visit is after a good rain.

Long Branch Waterfall:

Trailhead GPS: 35.28075,-82.83446 (Gated FSR 5095)

Waterfall GPS: 35.27892,-82.82491

Waterfall on Long Branch is a waterfall on its namesake creek in Transylvania County. It's located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. The hike to the waterfall is about 2 miles round trip and moderate.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from US-64 for 5.2 miles and turn right on Forest Road 475 at the sign for the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and Pisgah Fish Hatchery. Go about 4.2 miles and park at the gated Forest Road 5095 without blocking the gate.

Hike past the gate and continue on Forest Road 5095 for just under a mile to where the road crosses Long Branch. The waterfall is just upstream from this point, but you can't see it from here. Just before the crossing, look for a steep trail heading up along the creek that's barely visible. Climb up here to the base of the waterfall and get out onto the rocks and logs in the water for the best view. When we visited, it had been raining heavily all day, so the waterfall was flowing more than usual. The upper drop was so forceful that it looked like the water was exploding out. However, the wet conditions made it difficult to get to a spot for a good picture without branches and foliage in the way. It's hard to see the upper freefall portion of the waterfall in the picture below.

Looking Glass Falls:

Trailhead GPS: 35.29634,-82.76948 (Parking area on US-276)

Waterfall GPS: 35.29620,-82.76887

Looking Glass Falls is beautiful 60-foot waterfall on Looking Glass Creek in Transylvania County. The waterfall is located in the Pisgah Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest near Brevard.

To visit the falls, head north on US-276 from US-64 for 5.7 miles, approximately a half-mile past the turn for Forest Service Road 475. There is a parking area on the right side of the road. Alternately, if coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, go south on US-276 for 9.4 miles; the parking area will be on the left.

The waterfall can be seen from the road and there is a handicapped-accessible viewing platform. For a closer look, head down the stairs to two additional viewing platforms. Looking Glass Falls is a beautiful and very easy to visit waterfall, one of the most popular in the area. As such, expect a crowd most of the time.

Lower Falls (Big Sandy Creek):

Trailhead GPS: 36.38376, -81.02645 (Upper Trailhead Parking at Stone Mountain State Park)

Waterfall GPS: 36.37479,-81.04114

Lower Falls is a small sliding waterfall on Big Sandy Creek in Wilkes County. The waterfall is located in Stone Mountain State Park. The hike to the falls is about 2 miles round trip and moderate in difficulty, though getting to the base of this waterfall can be difficult. See my Stone Mountain State Park page for directions and more description.