Notable waterfalls in the vicinity of Asheville that promise an experience worthy of your travel bucket list
Discovering the Stunning Waterfalls Near Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is surrounded by a myriad of breathtaking waterfalls, each offering unique hiking experiences. Here's a guide to some of the best waterfalls to visit near Asheville:
Best Waterfalls near Asheville
1. Rocky Fork State Park
- Location: Just 45 minutes from downtown Asheville.
- Hike Details: A trail follows a small river with sporadic deep holes, perfect for swimming. The trail length is approximately 1 mile, with an elevation gain of 173 ft.
- Features: Rocky Fork State Park offers a trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall, making it an ideal spot for a day out.
2. Quarry Falls
- Location: 4 minutes away from Cullasaja Falls.
- Hike Details: This roadside cascading waterfall requires a short walk.
- Features: Quarry Falls is a convenient stop for those looking for a quick waterfall fix.
3. Dry Falls and Cullasaja Falls
- Location: Both located near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Hike Details: Dry Falls has a trail length of less than 0.2 miles and an elevation gain of 49 ft. Cullasaja Falls has a trail length of 0.1 miles and an elevation gain of 49 ft. Both waterfalls can be seen from the roadside.
- Features: These roadside waterfalls are easily accessible and offer a glimpse into the beauty of North Carolina's waterfalls.
4. Wright Creek Falls
- Location: In Lake Jocassee, about 1.5 hours from Asheville.
- Hike Details: This waterfall can only be reached by boat.
- Features: Wright Creek Falls is a secluded waterfall, adding to its allure.
5. DuPont State Recreational Forest
- Location: 48 minutes away from Asheville.
- Hike Details: The trails range from easy to moderate.
- Features: DuPont State Recreational Forest is home to Grassy Creek Falls, High Falls, Triple Falls, and Hooker Falls, making it a waterfall lover's paradise.
6. Linville Falls
- Location: Along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Hike Details: Multiple trails offer different views of the falls. The easiest route is a short walk from the parking area, while more challenging hikes lead to the base of the falls.
- Features: A family-friendly location with several falls along the stream, including the Upper and Lower Linville Falls.
7. Graveyard Fields Loop Trail
- Location: Near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Hike Details: The trail length is 1.3 miles, with an elevation gain of 173 ft.
- Features: This trail is home to two waterfalls: Graveyard Fields Upper and Lower Falls.
8. Crabtree Falls
- Location: 1 hr. 20 mins. away from Asheville.
- Hike Details: The trail length is 2.2 miles, with an elevation gain of 541 ft. The difficulty level is moderate.
- Features: The hike to Crabtree Falls includes a lot of stairs, making it an adventure for those seeking a challenge.
9. Hickory Nut Falls
- Location: In Chimney Rock State Park.
- Hike Details: The trail length is 1.9 miles, with an elevation gain of 328 ft.
- Features: Hickory Nut Falls is located in Chimney Rock State Park, which was severely affected by Hurricane Helene in 2024 but has since reopened.
Additional Tips:
- Weather: Always check the weather before heading out, as waterfall flow can vary.
- Safety: Wear appropriate footwear and be cautious on trails, especially during or after rain.
- Information: Check park websites for any updates on trail conditions or closures.
- Catawba Falls was closed during the time the author lived in Asheville but is now mostly open and worth visiting.
- Sliding Rock is not a waterfall but a 60-foot natural slide that flows into an 8-foot deep pool. It is 49 minutes away from Asheville.
- Gorges State Park is home to Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Drift Falls, which can be reached through a 3.9 miles hike. The park also has great facilities and a super nice campground.
- Looking Glass Falls is a 60-foot waterfall that can be seen from the road but is best appreciated by walking down stairs. It is 44 minutes away from Asheville.
- The hike to Crabtree Falls includes a lot of stairs and is best explored after making a day of travels to nearby Little Switzerland and Emerald Village.
- Cullasaja Falls is another roadside waterfall that is close to Dry Falls. It can be seen from the roadside and does not have an established parking area.
- Dry Falls is a roadside waterfall that is easily accessible with a short walk down some stairs. The parking area can be difficult to find.
- After a day of hiking at Rocky Fork State Park, pitch a tent under the stars, immersing yourself in the mountains lifestyle.
- A travel itinerary in Asheville isn't complete without exploring the beautiful waterfalls, such as Rocky Fork, Quarry Falls, and Dry Falls – adding an adventure element to your home-and-garden lifestyle.
- For avid hikers, embarking on the trails of DuPont State Recreational Forest, Linville Falls, and Graveyard Fields Loop Trail can become an exhilarating part of your travel lifestyle.
- Asheville's stunning waterfalls don't just offer hiking opportunities; they also serve as picturesque backdrops for your home decor inspiring you to bring the outdoors in, blending your travel and home-and-garden lifestyles.
