Winter in western North Carolina usually brings snow, ice, and freezing cold temps. While certain areas experience a more mild winter, our beloved waterfalls – usually deep within the mountains – have no choice but to acclimate to the conditions and freeze over. If you’ve ever seen a waterfall frozen, a 60 ft. hunk of ice, it’s quite incredible. With a little hiking and some warm clothes, witnessing it for yourself is attainable. We’ve outlined some of the best winter hikes to take you to frozen waterfalls in North Carolina. But if you prefer to stay warm by the fire, you can still get the experience by checking out the incredible photos below.

1. Frozen and awesome Bridal Veil Falls.
Bridal Veil Falls, North Carolina 28741, USA
David Ledford / Only In North Carolina Facebook
While many sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway are closed come winter, it seems a little four wheel drive can handle it. No matter the season you visit, it's no wonder why Bridal Veil Falls is among the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina.
2. Frozen in motion Trashcan Fall near Boone.
Boone, NC, USA
Flickr / Junstin Fincher
Trashcan Falls is one of our favorite hidden waterfalls in North Carolina, and seeing it during the winter is truly enchanting.
3. It's looking like a winter wonderland at this waterfall in Weaverville.
Weaverville, NC 28787, USA
Flickr / Jeffrey Pott
There are countless outdoor attractions to explore when you visit Weaverville. A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway will likely result in spotting more than a few beautiful frozen waterfalls. And while you're in town, you can even opt to stay in this charming hobbit house near Asheville.
4. The base of High Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in North Carolina, looks surreal come winter.
High Falls, North Carolina 28739, USA
WowAmazing / Landscapes
High Falls is a breathtaking hiking destination any time of year.
5. Hooker Falls blanketed in snow looks as if you've been transported straight to Narnia.
Hooker Falls, North Carolina 28768, USA
Wow Amazing / Landscapes
Venturing to Hooker Falls is one of the best winter hikes in North Carolina, but it's also positively stunning during the warmer months.

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6. Watch your head! The walk-beneath waterfall, Dry Falls, takes on a completely different aesthetic in the winter time.
Dry Falls, North Carolina 28741, USA
Flickr / GRYGRGN
Dry Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in North Carolina, and it's no mystery why.
7. Looking Glass Falls, a popular summer swimming hole, takes on a whole new aesthetic come winter.
Looking Glass Falls, US-276, Brevard, NC 28712, USA
Youtube / Romantic Asheville
The best part of all is that you can practically drive right up to Looking Glass Falls.
8. Another popular swimming hole and natural waterslide, Sliding Rock, is breathtaking covered in ice and snow.
Sliding Rock, North Carolina 28768, USA
Youtube / Romantic Asheville
When it comes to North Carolina's best hidden gems, Sliding Rock always tops the list.
9. It's amazing to see Slick Rock Falls completely frozen over.
Slick Rock Falls, North Carolina 28712, USA
Youtube / Romantic Asheville
Measuring just 1.8 miles, the hike to Slick Rock Falls is one of the best winter hikes in North Carolina.
10. Daniel Ridge Falls has transformed from a greenery nestled waterfall into a daring ice cliff.
Daniel Ridge Falls, Canton, NC 28716, USA
Youtube / Romantic Asheville
Learn more about planning your visit to Daniel Ridge Falls. It's one of the best things to do in North Carolina in the winter!

To really feel like you’re standing right there, watch this amazing video by RomanticAsheville to see the frozen waterfalls in action:

Winter, and mother nature, sure can be incredible! We hope you can make it out to see one or two for yourself this year. What are some of your favorite frozen waterfalls in North Carolina?

For more ways to make the most of winter in the Tar Heel State, check out some of the best winter hikes in North Carolina. You won’t be disappointed!

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winter in North Carolina

Beth C. | December 12, 2021

What are some of the best winter attractions in North Carolina?

The best winter attractions in North Carolina are:

Winter in North Carolina is a magical season. Depending on which part of the state you visit, you could be treated to relatively mild temperatures or an abundance of snow. No matter what weather systems await, you can rest assured that there's a lot to do during the chillier months. Some of our favorite winter attractions in North Carolina include Dry Falls, Hawksnest at Seven Devils, the Outer Banks, any of the state's ski resorts, Crowders Mountain, Pilot Mountain, Hanging Rock State Park, Wilmington, and Wrightsville Beach. Learn more about these gorgeous winter destinations in North Carolina.

What's the snowiest town in North Carolina?

The snowiest town in North Carolina is Beech Mountain. For your best chance of enjoying snow during winter, head to this frosty wonderland. Located an impressive 5,500 feet above sea level, Beech Mountain is the tallest incorporated town east of the Mississippi River. Each winter, this charming and picturesque town receives upwards of 80 inches of snowfall each season. And the effect is truly magical!

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