Famous North Carolina Waterfalls

During the summer months, one of the things my family and I really enjoy are touring some of the local waterfalls that the N.C. mountains are famous for. Many hot afternoons you'll find us hiking through the beautiful, scenic mountains in Asheville N.C. or Parris State park, just to take a few pictures standing in front of one of the majestic waterfalls in the area. The many waterfalls that are nestled throughout this region are among some of the many tourist attractions that are constantly drawing people into the N.C. mountains.

The falls in DuPont State Forest, which is 40 miles from Asheville State Park, is home to 10,000 acres of amazing scenery that will take your breath away. DuPont State Forest is 900 miles of well known and explored hiking trails. One of them being the three mile trek that takes you to three of the most beautiful falls in the area. If you follow the trail leading from the park to the falls the first sight you'll be treated to is that of Hooker Falls. At Hooker Falls you can observe this majestic, flowing wonder in all its glory from an observation deck that sits above the falls. Continue on up the trail and you'll reach the base of the falls, which is a popular spot for wading and swimming in the cascade lake at the very base of this 11 foot waterfall. From Hooker Falls, you'll need to turn around and go past the parking area again and after a short hike you'll arrive at an overlook point for Triple Falls. Triple Falls gets its name from the 3 beautiful falls which cascade into one pool. This is 120 feet of amazing, cascading splendor. After treating yourself to this beautiful scenery, hit the trail again and it will lead you to a large rock that is just perfect for relaxing or enjoying a leisurely lunch. After lunch, continue up the trail to enjoy the 150 foot cascading views of High Falls. There you'll find plenty of boulders for the kids to climb on and a fallen tree at the base of the falls that is just perfect for relaxing. These are some of the most famous falls in N.C. and they are often crowded on the weekends. Which is why you may want to schedule your trip during the early morning hours or even during the weekdays. The trails leading to the falls are a very good place for hiking. They provide a moderate to hard hiking adventure because of the rugged terrain which is clearly marked and easy to navigate. Triple Falls was featured in the movie The Last Of The Mohicans.

Crabtree Falls is another beautiful waterfall in the N.C. area that is very popular with the tourists and others seeking a hiking adventure as well as beautiful views. From the South Toe river it is a 1 mile, somewhat strenuous hike to the cascading 100 feet falls. This hike is 1/2 mile above sea level so the air is much thinner which may make it harder to breath for those who suffer from breathing problems, or for those who aren't use to strenuous hikes. From mile marker 339.5 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, it is a 50 minute descent down the mountain to the falls. Crabtree Meadows are known for the friendly staff at their popular snack shop. You'll also be able to purchase gas in Crabtree Meadows and also any souvenirs or tourists items you may need to pick up. You'll also be treated to a very extensive, nice area for relaxing or picnicking. Your very impressive view of the falls will be at the base looking up. A bridge over the creek that lies in front of the falls will serve as your observation point and offers truly majestic views. Also during the summer you will be treated a hike that is filled with a carpeting of some of the most beautiful and colorful wildflowers that can be found anywhere. You can find camping sites and ranger programs throughout this area.

In Franklyn N.C. Big Laurel Falls is another popular tourist attraction and destination for campers. And after a short hike through the mountains, following a hiking trial which use to be an old logging railroad; you'll also discover Mooney Falls. A short 6 mile hike through the mountains path will take you to Mooney Falls. This is an easy to moderate hike with no steep grades, climbs or descents, but it is a rough trail. However, the scenery you'll be treated to in the form of unusual trees and beautiful views of the falls, is well worth the hike. Just remember to take your time or you may stumble. There are no fees associated with this park. At most parks you may have to pay a small fee for parking your car, or to rent one of the camping sites. But hiking and access to the falls is free in most spots. Unless it's in a state park and then there will be a small entry fee. To get more information on these and other local N.C. waterfalls and state parks visit www.ncwaterfalls.com or www.ncstateparks.com. Also most of these hikes are pet friendly. Pets are welcomed but must be kept on a leash at all times. And please always remember that waterfalls have the potential to be deadly, so always adhere to the rules and regulations when visiting. Every year people fall to their deaths by slipping on the wet rocks around waterfalls. Remember to use caution and always be safe while enjoying any of the numerous wonders nature has to offer. When planning your visit to one of our beautiful falls you can visit www.nps.giv/grsm/planyourvisit/waterfalls.html to get information on ways to plan your trip so that you get the most out of everything that the N.C. mountain region has to offer.