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11 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in North Carolina

The entire state of North Carolina is peppered with alluring natural wonders, including a collection of beautiful, two-tiered cascading waterfalls and raging torrents of varying sizes. The mass concentration of waterfalls in the Pisgah National Forest alone is more than enough to satiate any type of tourist’s sightseeing desires, whether drive-by attraction seeker or high elevation hiker. The popular, well-known falls are easy to find and overrun with crowds on bluebird days, but there are so many equally appealing rapids to be explored if you know where to look.

Moore Cove Falls Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest
Credit: Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest by © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime.com

Moore Cove Falls

Often overlooked on account of the popular Looking Glass Falls nearby, Moore Cove Falls is worth checking out due to the serene, jungle backdrop of the cove and gentle spray of the fall against the red clay rocks. It is a 1.5-mile hike past the trailhead but worth the walk for those seeking a typically uncrowded destination.

French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals
Credit: French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals by jeff.g.moore via Flickr

French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals

French Broad Falls is a 3-for-1 package deal located just outside of Brevard off NC 215. No signs or directions point to its location, making it easy to pass by unless you are seriously looking for it. It is located on private property so treat the area with respect. Enjoy the dazzling panoramic view of gushing waterfall beauty.

Hickory Nut Falls Hickory Nut Falls
Credit: Hickory Nut Falls by Doug Letterman via Flickr

Hickory Nut Falls

At 40-foot tall, this gem is among the highest dropping waterfalls in the east. Set amidst a backdrop of pastel-painted red, gold, and green leaves in autumn, it is a must-see attraction for any low-key hiker willing to embark on the 1.5-mile round-trip journey. A strangely uncrowded attraction, this waterfall brags as being one of the featured sceneries from the movie “The Last of the Mohicans.”

Cathey’s Creek Falls Cathey’s Creek Falls
Credit: Cathey’s Creek Falls by Cathey’s Creek Falls

Cathey’s Creek Falls

A strenuous descending trail and dizzying elevation loss take hikers to a hidden cascade buried away in the Pisgah National Forest from the prying eyes of drive-by tourists. It is a worthwhile secret kept by the forest depths where you can enjoy a low-key waterfall down slanted, polished rock often speckled with fall leaves making for a unique, rustic setting.

Log Hollow Falls Log Hollow Falls
Credit: Log Hollow Falls by Michael Shake/shutterstock.com

Log Hollow Falls

Off the beaten path, Log Hollow Falls is another overlooked prize in close proximity to Looking Glass Falls but exceeds the more popular attraction in undeniable charm. Framed in famous Carolina rhododendron, this lesser-known allurement creates the perfect woodland waterfall portrait in an equally tranquil environment.

Eastatoe Falls Estatoe Falls
Credit: Estatoe Falls by Patricia Kuhn/shutterstock.com

Eastatoe Falls

This magnificent, multi-tiered cascade flows downwards for 60 feet across dark shelves and ledges of slick rock to a shallow pool at its base. Although on private property, considerate landowners have opened up their backyard to share this pearl with the general public. Enjoy the cool spray reflecting off the rocky staircase but tread courteously so as not to endanger the attraction for others.

Upper and Lower Little Lost Cove Creek Falls Cove Creek Falls
Credit: Cove Creek Falls by Cove Creek Falls

Upper and Lower Little Lost Cove Creek Falls

These neighboring rapids are for dedicated waterfall enthusiasts only. Their name truly matches their description. The primitive trail and slippery boulder crossings required for good views make for limited public appeal. But the worthwhile double waterfall against a truly undeveloped setting sets the scene for a beautiful photograph. Mossy rock and fallen logs only add to the agrarian presentation.

Rainbow Falls Rainbow Falls
Credit: Rainbow Falls by willyk via Flickr

Rainbow Falls

Once stationed in Gorges State Park, this particular portion of land has been transferred to Pisgah National Forest ownership. Rainbow Falls is an impressive, multi-level viewing platform of the biggest swell along the Horsepasture River. It is named for the often seen rainbow reflecting off the falls and across the wooden hiking bridge following a good rain.

Moravian Falls Moravian Falls
Credit: Moravian Falls by bigstock.com

Moravian Falls

This is perhaps one of the most unknown waterfalls in the state due to its remote location near Wilkesboro. Far from waterfall central, this jewel holds its own against the rivaling Pisgah beauties. The nearest accommodation, Hidden Hollow Retreat Cabin, is a testament to its lack of public familiarity. While visitors need campground permission to enjoy the scenery, waterfall advocates will not want to pass this one up. An old-fashioned mill and water-wheel background set a pristine landscape.

Looking Glass Falls Looking Glass Falls
Credit: Looking Glass Falls by Dave Allen Photography/shutterstock.com

Looking Glass Falls

This impressive 60-foot waterfall near Brevard is located in the Pisgah National Forest and is one of the most popular in the state thanks to its easy accessibility. There’s no admission fee for this waterfall and it’s always open, making it a must-see stop while traveling along U.S. 276. You can see the spectacular falls from the parking area or you can take a short walk for a closer view. In the hotter months, this is a popular swimming hole too.

Dry Falls Dry Falls near Highlands, N.C.
Credit: Dry Falls near Highlands, N.C. by mark_stoffan via Flickr

Dry Falls

Just outside of Highlands, Dry Falls is a 75-foot waterfall in the Nantahala National Forest. You’ll find this waterfall just off U.S. Highway 64 and there’s an observation area that’s accessible to everyone. Those wanting to get a closer look can follow the path that leads you behind the waterfall. Because the water flows over a cliff, there’s room to walk behind the falls while staying dry and getting the perfect waterfall selfie.

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