1. Looking Glass Falls - 2 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Brevard, NCHighlights:
Looking for a breathtaking waterfall that’s easy to access? Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest is a roadside beauty that makes a perfect stop for families, photographers, and those with limited mobility.Recommended For:
Road trippers, families, wheelchair users, seniors, and anyone wanting a stunning waterfall without a hike.What I Love: ♥
The powerful 45-foot drop, the misty views from multiple levels, and the way the falls glow during winter—thanks to the reflective rock it’s named after.- Visit one of North Carolina’s most iconic waterfalls located right off the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway.
- Marvel at the 45-foot cascade of Looking Glass Falls, named after the nearby Looking Glass Rock that glistens in sunlight and ice.
- Access the viewing platform for great photo ops, or take the stairs down for a closer look and creekside relaxation.
- Snap some of the best waterfall photos in the state—no hiking boots required!
Cost:
Free and open to the public.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for lush views; winter to see Looking Glass Rock’s icy shine.Local tips:
Parking fills quickly—arrive early or visit on a weekday for a quieter experience. Water can be icy cold, even in summer!Distance:
A little over 2 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Looking Glass Falls:
From Brevard, take US-276 north into Pisgah National Forest. The falls will be clearly marked on your right along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway.Address:
US-276, Brevard, NC 28712Phone: 828-877-3265
2. Log Hollow Falls - 2.5 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Pisgah National Forest, NCHighlights:
Looking for an easy, kid-friendly adventure that still feels like a hidden treasure? Log Hollow Falls is a peaceful 30-foot cascade tucked into a quiet corner of Pisgah National Forest—perfect for a short hike with big rewards.Recommended For:
Families with young kids, beginner hikers, nature photographers, and anyone looking to avoid the crowds.What I Love: ♥
The short, obstacle-free trail, tranquil setting, and the option to wade in for the best waterfall photos.- Take an easy 10-minute walk from the trailhead along the Log Hollow Trail—ideal for families and casual hikers.
- Discover one of four waterfalls in the area, including Upper Log Hollow, Logging Road, and Discovery Falls.
- Relax beside this 30-foot hidden gem that flows gently through a quiet, wooded glen.
- Wade near the base of the falls for a refreshing splash and the best camera angle—leaning trees can block views from shore.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for full flow and greenery; fall for crisp weather and colorful leaves.Local tips:
The area is less traveled—bring a map or download GPS coordinates in advance. No signage marks the falls, so keep your eyes open!Distance:
About 2.5 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Log Hollow Falls:
From Brevard, follow US-276 into Pisgah National Forest, then turn onto FR 475B (a gravel road). Park at the gated Forest Service road and walk to the trailhead—it's a short, scenic hike from there.Address:
North Carolina 28761Phone: 828-877-3265
Romantic Waterfalls
3. High Falls - 2 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Cedar Mountain, NCHighlights:
If you're chasing big, bold waterfalls in North Carolina, High Falls in DuPont State Forest is a must. With a dramatic 150-foot drop and stunning views in every season, it’s a rewarding hike just two hours from Charlotte.Recommended For:
Day hikers, photographers, families with older kids, and anyone seeking a scenic, moderately challenging adventure.What I Love: ♥
The towering cascade, winter ice formations, and the chance to combine your visit with nearby Triple Falls.- Begin at the High Falls Visitor Center and choose from two well-marked trails—both leading to the falls.
- Hike the 2-mile High Falls Loop trail for great views and access to additional waterfalls, including Triple Falls.
- Stand in awe of the 150-foot curtain of water spilling down the rock face, especially dramatic after heavy rains.
- Rock-hop closer to the falls during low water conditions for a more immersive experience.
- Visit in winter to see stunning natural ice formations clinging to the falls and surrounding cliffs.
Cost:
Free to access; visitor center and trailhead parking also free.Best time to visit:
Spring for water flow and greenery; fall for foliage; winter for dramatic ice displays.Local tips:
The loop trail can be steep and slick—wear sturdy shoes and bring a camera. Combine with Triple Falls and Hooker Falls for a full waterfall day trip.Distance:
About 2 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to High Falls:
From Brevard, take US-276 South to Staton Road. Follow signs to the High Falls Visitor Center where trail access and parking are available.Address:
Staton Road, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718Phone: 828-877-6527
4. Elk River Falls - 2.5 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Elk Park, NCHighlights:
For big water and easy access, Elk River Falls is one of Pisgah National Forest’s most awe-inspiring destinations. Just outside Beech Mountain, this 50-foot cascade pours into a deep, emerald pool surrounded by flat rock outcroppings perfect for relaxing in the sun.Recommended For:
Sightseers, families, casual adventurers, sunbathers, and those looking for a waterfall with minimal hiking required.What I Love: ♥
The powerful water flow, picnic-ready boulders, natural swimming areas, and dramatic scenery—no trek needed.- Reach the falls via a short but steep footpath just off Elk River Road—no long hike necessary.
- Admire the wide, 50-foot waterfall as it crashes into a beautifully clear oval pool at the base.
- Relax on the smooth, sun-warmed rocks at the top or bottom of the falls—perfect for lunch or lounging.
- Swim or wade in designated areas of the pool, but stay alert—strong currents have made parts of the river dangerous.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for sunshine, swimming, and easy trail access; fall for colorful views and cool air.Local tips:
Avoid venturing into deeper water or near the base of the falls—fatal accidents have occurred. Stay in designated swimming zones and always supervise children.Distance:
Around 2.5 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Elk River Falls:
From Elk Park, take NC-194 North and turn onto Elk River Road. Drive until the road ends near the small gravel parking area; the trail to the falls begins there.Address:
Elk River Rd, Elk Park, NC 28622Phone: 828-733-9573
Waterfalls for Families
5. Sliding Rock - 2 hours and 45 minutes from Charlotte
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Location:
Pisgah Forest, NCHighlights:
Looking for the ultimate summer thrill? Sliding Rock may not be a traditional waterfall, but it’s a natural waterslide like no other—powered by 11,000 gallons of water per minute and perfect for beating the heat in the heart of Pisgah National Forest.Recommended For:
Families, adventurous kids, summer travelers, and anyone looking for a refreshing and unforgettable water experience.What I Love: ♥
The 60-foot rock slide, lifeguarded pool, observation decks, and family-friendly setup with restrooms and changing facilities.- Slide down a slick, sloping rock face fueled by rushing water into a chilly seven-foot-deep pool below.
- Watch from one of the two observation platforms if you’re staying dry or supervising little ones.
- Enjoy lifeguards on duty during summer and well-maintained restrooms and changing rooms on-site.
- Cool off with one of the most unique natural water experiences in the state—perfect on a hot day!
Cost:
$5 per person during peak season; children under 6 enter free.Best time to visit:
Summer for the full splash experience with lifeguards present; mornings or weekdays to avoid long lines.Local tips:
Wear sturdy swimwear and water shoes—Sliding Rock is fun but fast! The water is icy cold even in July, so be ready for a brisk ride.Distance:
About 2 hours and 45 minutes from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Sliding Rock:
From Brevard, take US-276 North into Pisgah National Forest. Sliding Rock will be clearly marked on the right-hand side with a parking area nearby.Address:
7851 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768Phone: 828-885-7625
6. Rainbow Falls - 3 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Sapphire, NCHighlights:
If you're after jaw-dropping scenery and one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Blue Ridge, Rainbow Falls is a must. On sunny days, its 150-foot plunge creates a misty rainbow, making for a magical reward after a moderate hike.Recommended For:
Hikers, waterfall lovers, photographers, and those comfortable with moderate elevation gain.What I Love: ♥
The roaring water, rainbow mist, and multiple vantage points from both the base and the top of the falls.- Start your hike at the Grassy Ridge parking area—expect a 3-mile roundtrip hike with a steady uphill climb on the return leg.
- Admire the 150-foot waterfall as it thunders down the Horsepasture River—one of the most dramatic drops in North Carolina.
- Watch for rainbows on sunny days as mist rises from the base of the falls—it’s a magical sight.
- Explore side trails for different viewing angles, but stay safe and avoid climbing or wading into dangerous upper areas.
Cost:
Free to enter and hike.Best time to visit:
Spring and summer for full water flow and greenery; early fall for cooler hikes and thinner crowds.Local tips:
The trail can be muddy and slick—wear proper hiking shoes. Obey safety signs—several fatal accidents have occurred due to slipping near the top of the falls.Distance:
About 3 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Rainbow Falls:
From Sapphire, head to Gorges State Park and follow signs to the Grassy Ridge parking area. The Rainbow Falls Trail begins here and connects with the Horsepasture River Trail.Address:
976 Grassy Ridge Rd, Sapphire, NC 28774Phone: 828-966-9099
Waterfalls for Hikers
7. Second Falls - 2 hours and 45 minutes
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Location:
East Fork, NCHighlights:
Looking for a short, scenic hike with a big waterfall payoff? Second Falls in Pisgah National Forest’s Graveyard Fields is a must-stop along the Blue Ridge Parkway—especially for photographers, swimmers, and anyone craving a quick adventure with incredible views.Recommended For:
Road trippers, casual hikers, photographers, families with older kids, and waterfall swimmers.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic 70-foot tiered drop, easy Parkway access, and the photogenic pool that invites a cooling dip in summer.- Hike a steep but short 0.6-mile trail filled with stairs, beginning from a designated Blue Ridge Parkway parking area.
- Admire the 70-foot cascade as it tumbles gracefully over rounded rock tiers into a wide basin below.
- Explore the newly-built boardwalk and overlook for safe, elevated views and great photo ops.
- Swim or sunbathe with caution—this area is popular during warm weather and offers shallow pools at the base of the falls.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming; fall for foliage; early morning for quiet photos without crowds.Local tips:
The trail is short but steep and often crowded—arrive early and wear shoes with grip, especially after rain.Distance:
Around 2 hours and 45 minutes from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Second Falls:
From the Blue Ridge Parkway, stop at the Graveyard Fields overlook (milepost 418.8). Trail access begins from the parking lot and is clearly marked with stairs descending to the falls.Address:
East Fork, NC 28716Phone: 828-257-4200
8. Triple Falls - 2 hours from Charlotte
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Location:
Little River, NCHighlights:
If you're waterfall-hopping in DuPont State Forest, don’t miss Triple Falls—an iconic three-tiered cascade made famous by *Last of the Mohicans*. With scenic angles and direct access to the rock ledge between tiers, it's one of North Carolina’s most memorable natural landmarks.Recommended For:
Movie buffs, casual hikers, photographers, families, and anyone looking for a dramatic and accessible waterfall experience.What I Love: ♥
The rare chance to stand mid-waterfall on a flat rock platform and the cinematic views from multiple levels.- Reach the falls via an easy 0.3-mile hike from either the Hooker Falls or High Falls Access parking lots.
- Take in the full 125-foot drop over three distinct tiers, each at a slightly different angle.
- Stand on a level rock platform located between the waterfall’s middle and lower drops—perfect for panoramic views.
- Watch your step on the steep overlook trail, and stick to dry, marked areas for safety.
Cost:
Free to access, with multiple parking areas nearby.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for peak flow; fall for golden leaves and milder temperatures.Local tips:
Combine with nearby High Falls and Hooker Falls for a full day of spectacular sights—all within walking distance!Distance:
About 2 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Triple Falls:
From Brevard, take US-276 South to DuPont Road and follow signs to either the Hooker Falls or High Falls Access parking areas. Trails to Triple Falls are clearly marked from both points.Address:
Little River, NC 28739For Photographers
9. Upper Falls - 3 hours
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Location:
East Fork, NCHighlights:
For a hike that rewards with solitude and scenery, Upper Falls in Pisgah National Forest’s Graveyard Fields valley is a true hidden gem. This 50-foot waterfall is surrounded by rich mountain beauty and gives hikers a deeper dive into the wild charm of the Blue Ridge Parkway.Recommended For:
Intermediate and experienced hikers, photographers, solitude seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenge and reward.What I Love: ♥
The peaceful setting, the misty drop of the falls, and the rugged, uncrowded trail that delivers a real sense of escape.- Hike a 2.9-mile roundtrip trail that winds through the Graveyard Fields valley—be prepared for rocky and uneven terrain near the end.
- Admire the 50-foot cascade as it drops into a pool framed by lush greenery and highland forest.
- Explore nearby Second Falls and Yellowstone Falls for a full day of waterfall trekking within the same scenic area.
- Fish for wild trout in the Yellowstone Prong if you’re looking to pair hiking with a peaceful angling break.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Late spring to early fall for manageable trail conditions and vibrant forest views; fall adds beautiful foliage to the experience.Local tips:
The trail gets rugged—bring hiking shoes and plenty of water. This route is less trafficked, so don’t expect much cell signal or crowds.Distance:
About 3 hours from Charlotte, NC.How to Get to Upper Falls:
Take the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Graveyard Fields overlook at milepost 418.8. Trail signs for Upper Falls begin near the parking lot and will guide you through the valley to the waterfall.Address:
East Fork, NC 28716Phone: 828-257-4200
Plan Your Trip