Scenic High Country Waterfalls

The NC High Country is a treasure trove of beautiful landscapes. Among its many attractions, the region's waterfalls stand out as some of the most awe-inspiring. In this guide, we'll take you on a tour of some of the area's most scenic and accessible waterfalls, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.

Elk River Falls (Near Banner Elk)

Elk River Falls features an impressive 85-foot drop over a broad ledge, cascading into a large rock pool below. Accessing the base of the falls involves a short but steep and moderately challenging 0.3-mile trail. There are lots of flat rocks to enjoy picnics or just to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Lower Pond Creek Falls (Beech Mountain)

The Lower Pond Creek Falls trail, located within Beech Mountain, offers a pleasant 1-mile hike and is an ideal spot for a picnic. The creek features pools where native trout can be observed.

Glen Burney Falls (Blowing Rock)

The Glen Burney Trail, located just steps from Main Street in Blowing Rock, provides a rugged adventure with an 800-foot descent into the John's River Gorge. Following New Year's Creek, the 3.2-mile round-trip trail offers views of three waterfalls. The round-trip hike takes approximately 2 hours. The trailhead is situated at Annie Cannon Gardens on Laurel Lane. Please be aware that this trail is steep and strenuous.

Green Mountain Creek Falls (Blowing Rock)

Green Mountain Creek Falls, a 20-foot-tall waterfall, is situated just outside Blowing Rock along the picturesque US Highway 221, known as the “Little Parkway.” Visitors can park at the gravel pull-off located south of the falls and cross the road for a close-up view. This scenic byway also features several additional roadside waterfalls between the Linn Cove Viaduct on the Blue Ridge Parkway and downtown Blowing Rock.

Hebron Falls via Boone Fork Trail (Blowing Rock)

Hebron Falls, also known as Boone Fork Falls, is part of the 5.5-mile Boone Fork Trail. The trailhead is located at Milepost 296.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, within the Julian Price Park Picnic Area. The Boone Fork Trail traverses an ancient lake bed, which is particularly good for bird-watching.

Silvervale Falls (Blowing Rock)

Silvervale Falls is one of just two "drive-up" waterfalls in the NC High Country. It is conveniently located next to a small pull-off area, allowing easy access for visitors.

Cascade Falls (Ashe County)

Cascade Falls, commonly referred to as The Cascades, is situated on Falls Creek approximately 15 miles east of Boone, NC, at milepost 271.9 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The waterfall is accessible via a 1-mile round-trip hike, which includes many steps leading to two distinct overlooks and is an easy hike for the whole family.

Linville Falls (Linville)

One of the most popular attractions in the High Country. Two primary hiking trails offer stunning views of Linville Falls, both starting from the Linville Falls Visitor Center (one of which is more challenging). These trails wind through remnants of a virgin hemlock forest, interspersed with white pine, oak, hickory, and birch trees. In spring, the trails are adorned with a vibrant array of wildflowers, while in fall, the red and golden foliage contrasts beautifully with the evergreen hemlocks.

Gragg Prong Falls (Linville)

Nestled deep within the Pisgah National Forest, Gragg Prong Falls is a hidden gem for those willing to venture off the beaten path. The falls are part of the Lost Cove Creek, where water cascades gracefully over a series of smooth rock slides, creating a stunning multi-tiered waterfall. The hike to Gragg Prong Falls is moderately challenging, covering approximately 4 miles round-trip along the Gragg Prong Trail. This trail follows the creek, offering numerous opportunities to dip your toes in the cool, clear water or enjoy a riverside picnic. Due to its remote location, Gragg Prong Falls remains relatively uncrowded, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature.

Hunt Fish Falls (Linville)

Hunt Fish Falls, located within the Linville Gorge Wilderness, is a serene spot where pristine waters cascade over a rocky ledge into a tranquil pool below. This waterfall is accessible via a 3.5-mile round-trip hike on the Hunt Fish Falls Trail, which begins at the trailhead near the end of FR 464. The trail descends through lush forests, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains before arriving at the falls. Hunt Fish Falls is a popular spot for fishing, as the pools and streams are teeming with native trout. The area is also great for swimming or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Be prepared for the hike back, as the return trip is a steady uphill climb. The natural beauty and tranquility of Hunt Fish Falls make the effort well worth it.

Otter Falls (Seven Devils)

Otter Falls Park features a moderate loop trail system, descending approximately 230 feet to the scenic Otter Falls. While the trails are steep, they are well-maintained and suitable for families with children and pets. The 1.2-mile trail also includes an observation deck near the top of the falls, offering additional views of the area.

Crab Orchard Falls (Valle Crucis)

Crab Orchard Falls, situated on the Valle Crucis Conference Center property, can be reached via a 1.3-mile "lollipop" loop trail. This scenic route features cascading falls framed by large boulders. To experience the trail optimally, take the right fork at the trailhead, which leads through the forest and across creeks, gradually ascending towards the falls. The trail then merges and descends, with stone steps guiding visitors to the base of the falls. On the return, continue right at the fork to navigate a steep hill and complete the loop.

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