The Best Waterfall Hikes Near Asheville, NC (Local's Guide)
If you're planning a trip to Western North Carolina, get ready — this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the East Coast. From short walks the whole family can do to longer hikes deep in the forest, there's truly something for every skill level. Whether you're based in downtown Asheville or road-tripping along the Blue Ridge Parkway, these 15+ waterfall hikes & stops near Asheville belong on your itinerary.
Looking Glass Falls
Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest is the crown jewel of Western North Carolina's outdoor scene, and it's the first place most locals send visitors looking to see waterfalls. Located just 30–45 minutes from downtown Asheville, it packs an incredible number of beautiful waterfalls into a relatively short drive.
Looking Glass Falls
If you only have time for one waterfall near Asheville, make it Looking Glass Falls. This stunning 60-foot cascade drops directly into a wide pool and is visible right from the roadside pullout — no hiking required. That said, a short set of stairs takes you down to the base for a closer look and that quintessential waterfall photo.
Distance: 0.3 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Small paved pullout directly on US-276. Fits roughly 20–25 cars. Free. Fills up by mid-morning on weekends — arrive before 9am or after 4pm for the best chance at a spot. Overflow parking is available further up the road. With it being so close to the road, parking turns over quick.
Pro tip: Arrive early, especially on summer weekends. This is one of the most popular waterfalls in Western North Carolina and the parking area fills up fast.
Moore Cove Falls
Just a few miles from Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls is a local favorite for good reason. This short hike through lush forest leads to a 50-foot cascade that actually flows over a rock overhang — meaning you can walk directly behind it. It's one of the most unique waterfalls in Pisgah and a short trail that's perfect for families or anyone looking for an easy waterfall hike.
Distance: 1.4 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Small unpaved pullout along US-276, just past Looking Glass Falls heading north. Free. Very limited — roughly 10 cars.
Pro tip: The trail follows a creek the whole way, so the sound of running water starts almost immediately. Wear shoes with good grip — the rocks near the base can be slippery.
Sliding Rock
Sliding Rock isn't a traditional waterfall, but it earns a spot on this list because it's one of the most fun and unique natural attractions in Western North Carolina. A natural 60-foot rock face with Looking Glass Creek rushing over it creates a natural water slide that drops into an 8-foot pool below. Lifeguards are on duty in season, making it a surprisingly family-friendly stop.
Distance: Roadside — minimal walking required
AllTrails Difficulty: N/A
Parking: Dedicated paved lot managed by the USFS. Fee required in season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day) — approximately $5 per person. Arrive early; this area draws large summer crowds.
Pro tip: Bring a change of clothes and a towel — you will get wet. Consider this Mother Nature's cold plunge — water temperatures stay cold even in peak summer, hovering around 50–60°F.
Graveyard Fields
Graveyard Fields is one of the most iconic stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and it delivers not one but two waterfalls in a single loop. Upper Falls (also called Second Falls) is the showstopper — a wide, multi-tiered cascade you can see from a scenic overlook. Lower Falls is a shorter walk from the trailhead and worth adding on. The surrounding grassy meadow and sweeping mountain scenery make this feel like a completely different landscape than the rest of the forest.
Distance: 3.2 miles | Loop
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: Large paved lot off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 418.8. Free, but extremely popular — routinely full by 9–10am on weekends in summer and fall foliage season. The Parkway is subject to seasonal closures in winter; check nps.gov/blri before you go.
Pro tip: Graveyard Fields sits at over 5,000 feet in elevation, which means it can be significantly cooler than Asheville — bring a layer even in summer. Aim to arrive before 9am on weekends.
Skinny Dip Falls
Just a mile down the Blue Ridge Parkway from Graveyard Fields, Skinny Dip Falls is one of the most popular swimming holes in Western North Carolina. A short trail leads to a series of cascading pools perfect for wading and swimming in warmer months. It tends to fly under the radar compared to its famous neighbor, which means the vibe here is noticeably more relaxed.
Distance: 0.4 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Parking: Small pullout on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 417. Very limited — roughly 10–12 cars. Fills up later in the morning than Graveyard Fields.
Pro tip: The name comes from the area's history as a clothing-optional swimming hole, though most visitors keep their clothes on these days. Water shoes are helpful for navigating the rocky pools.
DuPont State Recreational Forest
DuPont State Forest sits about an hour south of Asheville between the towns of Hendersonville and Brevard. It offers some of the most spectacular waterfall scenery in all of Western North Carolina. DuPont's trail system is extensive and well-maintained, making it easy to string multiple waterfalls together in a single hike. Most visitors base themselves at one of two main parking areas and build a loop from there.
Triple Falls
Triple Falls
Triple Falls is arguably the most photographed waterfall in DuPont. Three dramatic tiers cascade over wide rock faces in quick succession, and the trail allows you to view each drop from multiple angles. It's a stunning hike that earns every bit of its reputation. I’ve done this hike dozens of times and it never gets old.
Distance: 2.9 mi | Loop
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Most hikers access Triple Falls via the Hooker Falls Access Area off DuPont Road. The Hooker Falls lot is large but can fill on summer weekends — arriving before 10am is recommended.
Pro tip: Combine Triple Falls with High Falls and Hooker Falls on the same hike.
High Falls
High Falls
High Falls is DuPont's tallest waterfall, dropping approximately 120 feet. The viewing area gives you an excellent perspective of the full drop, and the surrounding forest adds to the drama. If you have a little extra time, I highly recommend adding on a stop at the covered bridge that spans the river at the top of the falls.
Distance: 1.2 mi | Out and Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Same access points as Triple Falls.
Pro tip: High Falls looks particularly dramatic after heavy rain when the water volume is at its peak. Early spring and after summer storms are ideal times to visit.
Hooker Falls
Hooker Falls
Hooker Falls is the most accessible waterfall in DuPont — a short walk leads to a wide, picturesque cascade that's also one of the best swimming holes in the area. On hot summer days, you'll find locals wading in the pool at the base. It's an easy waterfall hike that's ideal for families, beginners, or anyone short on time. This is one of our go-to spots in the summer.
Distance: 0.9 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Hooker Falls Access Area off DuPont Road. Free gravel lot. One of the larger trailhead lots in DuPont, but still fills up on summer and fall weekends. Arrive before 10am to secure a spot.
Pro tip: Swimming is permitted at Hooker Falls — one of the few designated swim spots in Dupont. Bring a towel and plan to cool off.
Bridal Veil Falls (DuPont)
Not to be confused with the roadside Bridal Veil Falls near Highlands, DuPont's Bridal Veil Falls fans out gracefully over a broad rock face in a wide, flowing curtain. It has a softer, more ethereal look compared to the other falls in the forest — especially beautiful in morning light.
Distance: 4.6 mi | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Parking for this trailhead is at the High Falls Access area, the largest parking lot available in Dupont.
Pro tip: You might recognize this waterfall from its appearances in The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans.
Saluda, NC
Little Bradley Falls
Lower Bradley Falls
Lower Bradley Falls is a hidden gem — far less crowded than the Pisgah or DuPont waterfalls, but absolutely worth the detour. The trail descends steeply to a gorgeous multi-tiered cascade tucked into a gorge. The hike out is strenuous on the way back up, and the falls feel off-the-beaten-path.
Distance: 1.8 mi | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes (*since Hurricane Helene, there are more downed trees to navigate on this trail which may make it harder for some pups)
Parking: Very small gravel pullout along Green River Cove Road. Fits only 5–8 cars. No overflow options — if it's full, you'll need to come back.
Pro tip: The access road and parking area are easy to miss. Check AllTrails for the exact trailhead coordinates before you go. Sturdy footwear is a must here.
East of Asheville
Catawba Falls
Catawba Falls is one of the best waterfall hikes in Western North Carolina for the scenic payoff-to-effort ratio. The trail follows the Catawba River through a gorge past a series of smaller cascades before reaching the main 100-foot falls. It feels remote and wild, even though the trailhead is easy to reach off I-40 near Old Fort.
Distance: 3.6 miles | Loop
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Free gravel lot managed by Pisgah National Forest off Old US-70 near Old Fort. Fits roughly 40–50 cars and was expanded in recent years due to popularity. Can still fill on summer weekends.
Pro tip: A new staircase has been added to reach the upper falls, but the treads are not pet paw friendly. Keep this in mind if you plan to bring your dog along. If you want to skip the upper falls, opt for the 2 mile out and back trail to the lower falls, it's still worth it!
Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls is one of the most underrated waterfall hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway — and at 70 feet, it's an impressive cascade. The loop trail winds through old-growth forest and rhododendron tunnels before delivering you to the base of the falls.
Distance: 2.5 miles | Loop
AllTrails Difficulty: Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Paved lot at the Crabtree Falls Campground area off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 339.5. Free. Moderate size — fits roughly 30–40 cars. Note the Blue Ridge Parkway can close in winter; check nps.gov/blri between November and March.
Pro tip: This trail is most spectacular in late May and June when the rhododendrons are in bloom. Combine the hike with a picnic at the campground area for a full half-day outing.
Linville Falls, view from Plunge Basin Trail
Linville Falls
Linville Falls sits along the Blue Ridge Parkway and is one of the most visited waterfalls in all of Western North Carolina. Multiple trail options let you view the falls from above, from the side, and from a dramatic gorge overlook. It's spectacular from every angle and one of those waterfalls that looks different depending on which trail you take.
Distance: 1.6–3.8 miles depending on trail chosen | Out & Back options
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Paved NPS lot at the Linville Falls Visitor Center off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 316.4. Free.
Pro tip: The Erwin's View trail gives you the best overall perspective of the falls and gorge. Chimney View offers great views of the falls. The visitor center has clean restrooms — a nice perk compared to more remote trailheads.
⚠️ Helene Update: As of March 2026, Portions of this area remain closed due to impacts from Hurricane Helene. This includes portions of the Blue Ridge Parkway the Linville Falls Visitor Center and some trails and overlooks within the Linville Gorge. For the most up to date information, check with the USFS Grandfather Ranger District.
Near Highlands & Cashiers
The stretch of Western North Carolina between Highlands and Cashiers is home to some of the tallest and most dramatic waterfalls in the entire region. It's a longer drive from Asheville — roughly 90 minutes to two hours — but makes for an incredible full-day road trip, especially when you string several stops together along US-64.
Dry Falls
Despite the name, Dry Falls is anything but — it's a 75-foot waterfall that you can walk directly behind on a paved path. The falls flow over a wide rock overhang, creating a natural alcove that keeps you surprisingly dry even as the water crashes just feet away. It's one of the most unique and accessible waterfall experiences in the region.
Distance: 0.4 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Small paved lot off US-64 between Highlands and Franklin. Day-use fee applies — typically a few dollars per person. Turnover is fairly quick since the walk is so short, I’ve never had any issues getting a spot.
Pro tip: Dry Falls is a wonderful stop on a scenic drive through the Highlands area. Pair it with Upper Whitewater Falls and Bridal Veil Falls for a full waterfall day trip without adding significant extra mileage.
Upper Whitewater Falls
Upper Whitewater Falls
Upper Whitewater Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies, dropping over 400 feet in a stunning series of cascades through Gorges State Park. The hike to the main overlook is short and paved, but the sheer scale of what you're looking at is hard to process until you're standing in front of it. This is a bucket-list waterfall, full stop.
Distance: 0.4 miles to overlook | Out & Back (longer trails available in Gorges State Park)
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy to overlook / Strenuous for full descent to base
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Paved lot at the Whitewater Falls Recreation Area trailhead in Gorges State Park. Free for NC residents; small day-use fee for out-of-state visitors. Typically has adequate capacity, but can get crowded on summer weekends.
Pro tip: The descent to the base of the falls is extremely steep and requires a permit — check the NC State Parks website before planning to go all the way down. The overlook alone is absolutely worth the drive.
Bridal Veil Falls — Roadside (Near Highlands)
This roadside Bridal Veil Falls is one of those only-in-the-mountains sights. Once upon a time, it was a waterfall you could literally drive your car through. That is no longer the case but it's still fun and memorable stop, no hiking required.
Distance: Roadside — no hike needed
AllTrails Difficulty: N/A
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Small roadside pullout on US-64 just west of Highlands. A few cars only. Turnover is fast since this is a quick stop rather than a destination.
Pro tip: This is an easy add-on when you're already driving through the Highlands area. It's right on US-64, so there's no reason to skip it if you're passing through.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a 150-foot sheer drop into a dramatic gorge in Gorges State Park. The hike to reach it is longer and more strenuous than most on this list, but the payoff is worth it. On sunny days, mist from the falls creates the rainbow effect that gives it its name. Pair it with Upper Whitewater Falls for a full Gorges State Park day.
Distance: 4.5 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Hard
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Gorges State Park trailhead parking lot off Windy Falls Road near Sapphire, NC. Free. Fits roughly 20–30 cars. Because the hike is longer, turnover is slower — arrive early on weekends.
Pro tip: This trail gains significant elevation and involves some rocky scrambling near the falls. Trekking poles and sturdy shoes are highly recommended. The waterfall is most dramatic in spring and after heavy rain.
Silver Run Falls
Silver Run Falls is one of the best-kept secrets in the Cashiers area — a beautiful 40-foot cascade that flows into a crystal-clear swimming pool. The walk in is barely five minutes, making it incredibly accessible for such a stunning spot. It's particularly popular with families in summer for the calm, cold swimming area at the base.
Distance: 0.2 miles | Out & Back
AllTrails Difficulty: Easy
Kid Friendly: Yes
Dog Friendly: Yes
Parking: Small gravel lot off NC-107, a few miles south of Cashiers. Free. Fits roughly 15–20 cars. Because it's less well-known than other falls in the area, parking is generally easier to find here than at nearby spots.
Pro tip: The water is cold year-round — bring water shoes for wading and a towel for after. This is a wonderful end-of-day stop on your way back from Upper Whitewater Falls or Rainbow Falls.
For more waterfall hike inspiration, I highly recommend “Hiking Waterfalls North Carolina; A Guide to the State’s Best Waterfalls” by Melissa Watson.
FAQs: Waterfall Hikes Near Asheville
What should I pack for a waterfall hike?
Most of these trails are well-maintained, but a little preparation goes a long way. Here's what to throw in your bag before you head out:
Waterproof Boots - I've owned these waterproof hiking boots for a while and still love them!
Water Shoes - I was recently informed that it is every "East Coast" of me to hike in sandals. And honestly, once it hits about 70 outside, you will most likely find me hiking in my Chaco sandals. They are perfect for waterfall hikes - the Vibram soles have great grip and I can get my feet wet without worrying about soggy socks.
Hiking Socks - If you opt for waterproof boots, be sure to wear a good, wool hiking sock. Darn Tough are my go-to.
Microfiber Towel - Anytime I'm waterfall hiking, I always pack a microfiber towel in case I want to take a dip. I've used this one for several years and it holds up great.
Water bottle or hydration pack - Staying hydrated is so important! I carry a Hydro Flask and a 2L reservoir in my day pack.
Snacks or a packed lunch - My favorite trail snacks include dried fruits, jerky, salty crackers like Cheez-Its, nuts and PB&J sandwiches (Uncrustables are a great option!).
Lightweight rain jacket or packable layer : Pisgah is situated in a temperate rain forest so a pop-up shower that wasn’t in the forecast is always possible.
Sunscreen and insect repellent - These are my all-time favorite sunscreen and bug spray.
Small first aid kit - I carry this one!
Day Pack - I usually opt for a 26L day pack with a hydration reservoir pouch like this one.
AllTrails downloaded offline for your specific trail
Do I need a car to visit these waterfalls?
Yes — a car is required to reach most of these waterfalls. Public transportation doesn't extend to the trailheads, and rideshare availability (and phone service) is unreliable once you're in the forest. If you're flying in without a vehicle, renting a car is your best bet. Book your rental car here.
Not comfortable driving mountain roads or prefer a guided experience? Several local tour operators run waterfall day trips from Asheville.
Where should I stay?
Asheville gives you a central base to most of these waterfalls — putting you within 30–60 minutes of nearly everything on this list. My Where to Stay in Asheville guide will help you narrow down the options.
That said, if you're focused on waterfalls to the south, staying in Brevard puts you right at the doorstep of Pisgah National Forest, DuPont, and waterfalls off of Hwy 64 and cuts your drive time significantly. It's a charming town with great restaurants and a laid-back vibe worth an overnight. For the Highlands and Cashiers waterfalls, Highlands or Cashiers have lovely inn and cabin options if you want to base yourself in that area for a night or two rather than making the full drive from Asheville and back.
What is the best time of year to visit?
Spring (March–May) is peak waterfall season — spring rains mean the falls are running at full force and the wildflowers are blooming along the trails.
Fall (September–November) is stunning for foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer is the busiest season but ideal for swimming holes like Hooker Falls, Skinny Dip Falls, and Silver Run Falls. Winter can be magical if the falls are partially frozen, but trails may be icy — bring microspikes and check Blue Ridge Parkway road conditions before heading out.
Are these hikes dog-friendly?
Most trails in Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Recreational Forest are dog-friendly, but rules vary by location. Dogs are generally allowed on leash in both areas. Always check the specific trail's wilderness area listing for current pet policies before bringing your pup.
Pisgah National Forest (Looking Glass, Moore Cove, Graveyard Fields, Skinny Dip, Linville, Crabtree)
DuPont State Forest (Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls, Bridal Veil Falls)
Gorges State Park (Rainbow Falls, Whitewater Falls)
Nantahala National Forest (Dry Falls)
Are there wheelchair or stroller accessible hikes near Asheville?
Yes — a few!
Looking Glass Falls has a paved accessible viewing area at the top of the stairs.
Dry Falls has a short paved trail and is one of the most accessible waterfall experiences on the entire list.
Sliding Rock also has a paved accessible observation area.
Is there an entrance fee?
It varies by location. DuPont State Recreational Forest is currently free to enter. Dry Falls and Sliding Rock charge a small day-use fee in season. Gorges State Park (Upper Whitewater Falls and Rainbow Falls) is free for NC residents and charges a small fee for out-of-state visitors. Blue Ridge Parkway trails are free. Always check ahead as fees and reservation requirements can change seasonally.
What should I know about driving to these waterfalls?
Many of these trailheads are reached via narrow mountain roads with steep grades and tight curves. A standard passenger car handles all of them just fine, but drivers unfamiliar with mountain roads should take their time, use pull-offs to let faster traffic pass, and never stop in the middle of the road for a photo. The Blue Ridge Parkway has a 45mph speed limit and no commercial vehicles — it's one of the most scenic drives in the country and worth taking slowly.
Have a favorite waterfall near Asheville that didn't make the list? Drop it in the comments — I'd love to hear about it.
Hi, I’m Jess
I’m here to help you plan epic adventures. If you’re looking for authentic travel guides that mix luxe lodging and incredible dining with out of this world hikes and adventures, you’re in the right place.
