North Carolina is filled with exciting attractions, from theme parks to seashores that are home to wild horses. But oftentimes the best adventures are found in the woods, sometimes deep in the woods. Let’s take a look at the ultimate bucket list for waterfall chasing in the Tar Heel State, which are, by the way, among the best hikes in North Carolina!

1. Catawba Falls Trail - near Old Fort
Catawba Falls Parkway, Catawba Falls Pkwy, North Carolina 28711, USA
alltrails.com/Justin P
One of the most popular trails in the Pisgah National Forest leads to this breathtaking waterfall. The trail is rated moderate, is wooded, and follows a river. And as a bonus, you'll see more than one waterfall on the way to Catawba Falls!
2. Triple Falls Trail - in Pisgah Forest
Triple Falls, Triple Falls Trail, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
alltrails.com/Ryan Markham
The 2.3-mile Triple Falls Trail loop is an easy hike into this massive spectacle in the middle of the woods. See the above photo for scale: there are tiny little people at the base of the waterfall!
3. Crabtree Falls Trail - off the Blue Ridge Parkway
Meadows Lane Crabtree Falls Parking Area/Crabtree Falls Trail/Crabtree Falls Meadows/.5 Appalachian Trail Access, Parking lot, Tyro, VA 22976, USA
Alltrails.com/Justin P
Known for the spectacular views found along the trail, as well as the beautiful Crabtree Falls, the Crabtree Falls Trail 2.7-mile loop trail offers a variety of sights along the way. It's accessible year-round and you can even bring your dog as long as he/she is leashed. This is definitely one of the most spectacular waterfall hikes in North Carolina.
4. Rainbow Falls and Turtle Back Falls - near Lake Toxaway
Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Trailhead, Lake Toxaway, NC 28747, USA
Flickr / willyk
A 3.7-mile hike into the Natanhala National Forest yields views of four great waterfalls on this out-and-back hike. When you reach the towering Rainbow Falls, use extreme caution when viewing them from the top. Many people have fallen from this waterfall so take a look but don't lean over (eek!).
5. Linville Falls Trail - near Newland
Linville Falls Highway, Linville Falls Hwy, North Carolina, USA
alltrails.com/Justin P
One of the greatest waterfalls in North Carolina is the Linville Falls Trail, located in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area. It's also one of the most heavily trafficked waterfall hikes. You can take the trail to the viewing platform at the top of the falls, or head down the hill to falls at the base.

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6. High Shoals Falls Trail - near Connellys Spring
High Shoals Falls, South Mountains State Park, 3001 S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, USA
alltrails.com/Justin Lambert
The 5.4-mile loop to along the High Shoals Falls Trail is not for the faint of heart. It has a staircase that can make you think twice about your decision to trek off into the woods. But the pay off is a gorgeous hike, which is also one of the most scenic hikes in North Carolina, through an old forest with some long-range views.
7. Moore Cove Falls Trail - in Pisgah Forest
Moore Cove Falls Trail, US-276, Brevard, NC 28712, USA
alltrails.com/William Angel
The best 1.2-mile hike you can hike is the Moore Cove Falls Trail. It's easy, beautiful, and short. Arrive at your destination only to be awed by the massive spray of water over a cliff that offers a walk-behind waterfall experience, if you're brave enough to leave the viewing platform.
8. Hooker Falls Trail - near Hendersonville
Triple Falls Trail, North Carolina, USA
alltrails.com/Justin P
The Hooker Falls Trail to this beautiful waterfall is short, sweet, and mostly flat. It's a mere .06-mile from the parking area and can get a little (okay, a LOT) crowded in the summer months. But the waterfall is so pretty, it's worth it.
9. Skinny Dip Falls Trail - near Canton (along the BPR)
Skinny Dip Falls Trailhead, Blue Rdg Pkwy, Canton, NC 28716, USA
alltrails.com/Keith Whitmer
One of the most popular trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC, is the one that leads to Skinny Dip Falls Trail. The entire loop trail is only .08-mile and not only dishes up a great waterfall, but also has a fun swimming hole at the bottom of the falls. Be forewarned if you're going to swim: it can be crowded in the warmer months.
10. Elk River Falls Trail - Elk Park
Elk River Falls, Elk River Rd, Elk Park, NC 28622, USA
alltrails.com/IrishHeartbeatP
The .03-mile Elk River Falls Trail that goes down a hill to the foot of this waterfall is worth the effort. If it's a warm day, be prepared to share your slice of paradise with others, and even consider bringing swimming gear to join in the fun.
11. Looking Glass Waterfalls - near Brevard
Looking Glass Falls, US-276, Brevard, NC 28712, USA
Flickr/Photog aka eddie penland
The Looking Glass Waterfalls are close to the road that once you discover it, you may find it hard not to pull over each time you're nearby! A short .03-mile hike down to the foot of Looking Glass brings you to a beautiful spot with a swimming hole and plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the spectacle.

No matter the season, chasing waterfalls is a great family activity. Have you been to any of these great spots? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

For more outdoor adventures in North Carolina, here’s the top outdoor attraction in the state – and you’ll want to do it!

 

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Best hikes in North Carolina

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | July 04, 2022

How do I get to the High Shoals Falls Trail?

The High Shoals Falls Trail is located near Connelly Springs and between Morganton and Hickory. Once you get there, there are two options to get to the falls. The more adventurous way is to embark upon the HQ loop which adds almost three more miles to your already 5.4-mile loop. Or, if you want something more leisurely, it’s only one mile in and out to get to the viewing platform. Either way, you’ll enjoy the scenic beauty of this trail.

What is the biggest state park in North Carolina?

The biggest state park in North Carolina is called South Mountain State Park. Located only 30 minutes from Morganton, 52 minutes from Gastonia, and an hour and 15 minutes from Hendersonville, the park is definitely for those who enjoy rugged outdoor experiences. You’ll find 40 miles of trails, equestrian camping, and backpacking campsites, just to name a few. Because of the robust area where it is located in the state, visitors will meander their way through some 3,000 feet of elevation change.

Can you name a kid-friendly hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Absolutely! Traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most popular vacation itineraries when visiting the Tar Heel State. If you need to get the kids out of the car to burn off some of that energy, you might try the Craggy Pinnacle Trail. It is only 0.7-miles and the views are incredible. A lot of locals come here as well to walk, hike, and walk their dogs.

What is there to do in Beaufort, North Carolina?

Beaufort is one of the most charming small towns in the state. It is also one of the most visited towns on the Inner Banks. Among the main attractions here are the beautiful waterfront and the quaint downtown area. At both, you will find a wealth of dining establishments, boutique shops, historic buildings, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Be sure to get your fill of the fresh seafood plucked from the water here!

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