One of the tallest waterfalls in North Carolina sets a majestic scene in nature as it falls 120 feet over a cascading rock face high on a hill outside of Cherokee. And one of the best parts of this natural attraction is the trail, it is only one-third of a mile long. A quick climb through the mountainous forest and you will come face to face with one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state. Lace up your hiking shoes and let’s hit the trail to Mingo Falls in North Carolina.

Brace yourself for the big wow factor when you arrive at the mid-point of this striking waterfall. We can just sit and look at this waterfall all day long. The cadence of the water falling from so high brings a peaceful atmosphere to the whole forest.
Sarah Dodge/ OnlyInYourState
Mingo is a Cherokee word meaning, "big bear." And what a big bear of a waterfall this one is!
Although the trail to Mingo Falls is short, it's not an easy one by any means.
alltrails/Gwen Burnside
Nearly the entire hike is straight up the side of a mountain on a set of steps; 161 of them, to be exact. It's comparable to walking up to the 16th floor of a building.
alltrails/Alyssa Mikell
You're sure to feel the burn on this one but just take your time. The waterfall isn't going anywhere. After ascending all of those stairs the trail levels out. If you are familiar with hiking in the Appalachian region or the Great Smoky Mountains you will feel right at home on this trail. You will be traveling by rock walls, dozens of rhododendrons, and a slowing stream all before you arrive at this mighty waterfall.

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From our experience, we would rate this short hike as moderate due to the stairs and the rocky terrain just before you reach the...
TripAdvisor/Dan
Observation bridge at the mid-point of the waterfall. What a spot to congregate! You may even feel a drop or two of the water splash your face while you're standing on the bridge.
Sarah Dodge/ OnlyInYourState
This is the view you get from this bridge. If you want to get different angles for photos you can walk down by the water to get a closer look. We found that the rocks were very wet and slippery but if the conditions are dry enough it should be much safer.
Mingo Falls proper is 120 feet, but the waterfall and the long tail together make this total drop 200 feet!
alltrails/Brenda Jones
We were simply awestruck by this waterfall when we first saw it. Trust us when we say that every step was worth it when you stand in front of this rushing mighty waterfall.
Have you already hiked to Mingo Falls near Cherokee?
Google Maps

Let us know your thoughts and share your photos in the comments! You can also navigate to our Only In North Carolina Facebook page and share your images there! What do you think? This is one of the best waterfalls we have seen in the Tar Heel State, so trust us, this is one trail you don’t want to miss. Mingo Falls in North Carolina is a great addition to a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or a road trip through the Blue Ridge Parkway. Learn more about this short but sweet hike from our friends at AllTrails and don’t forget to download the map of the Mingo Falls Trail. You can also watch this cool Adventuring in the Moment video of our trip to this gorgeous waterfall.

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Featured Addresses
Mingo Falls, Eastern Cherokee Reservation, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA