Tallest Waterfall In North Carolina: Upper Whitewater Falls

Here in North Carolina, we have no shortage of waterfalls to admire. However, for the most epic and the tallest waterfall in North Carolina, plan a trip to Nantahala National Forest. There, you can view the breathtaking Upper Whitewater Falls from two viewing platforms. We think this waterfall showcases some of the prettiest views that can be found in the Tar Heel State. So let’s lace up your hiking shoes and get ready for one of the best waterfall hikes in North Carolina.

Known as the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, Whitewater Falls boasts two tiers - one in North Carolina and one in South Carolina, totaling a stunning 811 feet. You know a waterfall is big when it spans across two different states!

Upper Whitewater Falls, tucked in Nantahala National Forest, drops 411 feet, a spectacular natural wonder you really have to see to believe.

However, if you want to miss the onslaught of visitors, avoid going to the falls during the afternoon. The area tends to be quieter in the morning and in the evening.

To reach the viewing platform overlooking Upper Whitewater Falls, follow the walkway that begins in the parking lot. It is paved and handicap accessible.

For a different angle of the falls, get ready for a bit of a workout. Wear your comfiest shoes, too, because you'll have to walk down (then back up) the wooden staircase with 154 steps.

The lower viewing platform is approximately 600 feet from the upper viewing platform, promising even more sensational views. Do not venture off the trail for "better views" of the waterfall. It can be extremely dangerous to do so.

Nantahala National Forest is open daily, all year around, from dawn to dusk. There is a small fee to pay to enter but it is a small price to pay to see such a glorious North Carolina waterfall.

For the official website of the United States Forest Service. You'll find more information, including directions, to Upper Whitewater Falls.

Have you been to the tallest waterfall in North Carolina yet? Share your experience in the comments! We love to hear from you. This waterfall is an impressive one and a waterfall you will not want to miss. You can also head down the road into South Carolina to the Lower Whitewater Falls and witness the second tier of this breathtaking natural wonder. As with either the upper or lower falls, we would recommend using the AllTrails+ app to keep track of your progress on the trail. Don’t forget to download the Upper Whitewater Falls Trail or hike to both the Lower and Upper Whitewater Falls. To learn more about this waterfall check out our video about Whitewater Falls:

If you really love waterfalls, consider gassing up the car for this road trip to the best waterfalls in North Carolina.

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Waterfalls In North Carolina

Chris Dodge | March 29, 2024

What are some of the best waterfalls in North Carolina?

We love hiking in the Tar Heel State so there are lots of waterfalls we have been to. Here is a list of some of my favorite waterfalls in North Carolina:

Where is the best place to find waterfalls in North Carolina?

After searching high and low we have found no better place to find waterfalls than in Western North Carolina. The mountains and highlands make it the perfect place to chase some waterfalls. Here are a few of the areas we love exploring:

Where can you find the most waterfalls in one place in North Carolina?

To get the most bang for your buck so to speak and find the most waterfalls in one place in North Carolina, you have to travel to Brevard. This is known as the “Land of Waterfalls” with more than 250 in one area.

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Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina 28734, USA

See The Tallest Waterfall In North Carolina At Nantahala National Forest

Beth Price-Williams

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