Have you ever gone hiking in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains? It’s amazing isn’t it? Beautiful views, picturesque scenery, abundant wildlife. The Appalachian Mountains are without a doubt one of North Carolina’s most treasured landscapes. Hiking in the Appalachian Mountains is a bucket list item for many. But, have you ever been hiking and it was much harder than you expected? I certainly have. Have you ever looked at a map and wondered which hiking trail or which waterfall was easiest to achieve? Have you ever had a small child or an elderly family member with you who isn’t able to hike some of the more rigorous trails? This list is for you! Easy to get to waterfalls specifically in Highlands, North Carolina that are absolutely breathtaking.
1. Dry Falls
Address: 90 Sloan Rd. Franklin, North Carolina
Dry Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls. It has a fun and unique feature that helps it stand apart from other waterfalls. You can walk behind Dry Falls! As you enter behind the falls the roaring becomes overpowering, the smell is fresh and clean, the mist coats everything and everyone. It’s beautiful, majestic, powerful, even a little scary. The 65′ tall waterfall is easily accessible. It’s a very easy hike. To get to Dry Falls you are required to walk down two flights of stairs and then it’s a short walk to the falls. For those who may need to rest there are benches along the way. The short hike is definitely worth it! This waterfall is a must see, a North Carolina bucket list item. All ages will enjoy this waterfall.
*Please be careful as behind the waterfall can be quite slippery due to the constant mist.
Bridal Veil Falls
Address: Located along US Hwy 64, 2.5 Miles west of Highlands, North Carolina. A few minutes from Dry Falls.
Bridal Veil Falls is by far the most easily accessible waterfall on this list. It’s maybe 50′ from the parking area, falling directly beside Hwy 64. This waterfall, like Dry Falls, is unique in that you can walk behind the 45′ fall. When standing behind Bridal Veil Falls you can reach your hand out and feel the cold mountain water tickle your fingers. It’s a very picturesque waterfall that is perfect for those who don’t want to hike or can’t hike. This waterfall can be very busy so please be careful and drive slowly as you go past.
Sequoyah Falls
Address: 1896 Franklin Rd. Highlands, North Carolina
Sequoyah Falls is different on this list in that it’s a man made falls. Yet, it is still breathtakingly beautiful! You can stand at the parking area and see the falls, but if you are able to walk down a somewhat moderate to steep hill you can see the falls even better. If you are one of the super adventurous you can climb down to the bottom and stand amongst the rocks. Be careful as the rocks can be slippery and the water is moving extremely fast. The bottom of the falls would be a great spot to have a picnic or to take pictures. We highly enjoyed going in the late spring as all of the rhododendrons were in bloom.
I hope you find this list of easy to get to waterfalls in Highlands, North Carolina helpful as you plan your next trip. Please remember to leave the waterfalls and surrounding areas exactly as you find it. Clean up all trash that you may have generated and please have respect for any animals you may come in contact with. Happy travels!
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