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Finding the perfect waterfall near Asheville
Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, North Carolina, is a treasure trove for waterfall enthusiasts. If you’ve explored the local LGBTQ+ scene or enjoyed a bike ride through West Asheville, it’s time to lace up your hiking boots and set out on a new adventure. Over the years, I’ve visited more than twenty waterfalls in the area, inspired by Kevin Adams’ guide, North Carolina Waterfalls. Travelers often ask me which waterfall is ‘the best,’ a question that is as complex as picking the greatest movie of all time.
Just as every movie genre offers a unique experience, each waterfall possesses its own personality and charm. Some offer thrilling slides, while others provide serene swimming spots. In this guide, I’ll break down various waterfall experiences, highlighting the top choices in each category. Let’s plunge into this watery adventure!
Adventurous slides at Turtle Back Falls
Turtle Back Falls is an exhilarating choice for those seeking fun and a dash of fear. After a scenic 1.75-mile hike, you’ll arrive at this lively waterfall, and you’ll instantly understand how it earned its name. In summer, the area buzzes with people eager to watch friends and family take the plunge down the falls, or even join in themselves.
Perhaps the best part of the trek to Turtle Back Falls is the stunning Rainbow Falls you’ll encounter along the way. If there were a category for the ‘most powerful waterfall,’ Rainbow Falls would undoubtedly reign supreme, impressing visitors with its sheer strength.
To reach Turtle Back Falls, start at the Rainbow Falls Bull Head Parking A, located in Gatlinburg, TN. From there, a 3.5-mile roundtrip hike from Gorges State Park will lead you past the enchanting Rainbow Falls and onto Turtle Back Falls. A word of caution: the top of Turtle Back can be slippery. Always proceed carefully and never attempt this natural waterslide alone. The water below is cold and powerful, so only slide down if you’re a strong swimmer and exit to the right immediately.
The bustling beauty of Looking Glass Falls
Next up is Looking Glass Falls, a popular spot that can be overwhelming during the summer months. With the sun beating down, large crowds gather, creating an energetic atmosphere. I love plunging into the refreshing water and feeling the powerful current while swimming towards the falls. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit in autumn or winter, when the crowds thin out, giving you a spectacular view of the falls.
Getting to Looking Glass Falls is a breeze, as it’s just a short walk down paved stairs right off the road. This stunning waterfall can be found within Pisgah National Forest at 533-5988 Pisgah Hwy, Brevard, NC 28712.
While wandering off the beaten path, you might stumble upon Sol’s Creek, a breathtaking waterfall that isn’t often mentioned online. This magnificent 120-foot waterfall can only be accessed by boat, followed by a semi-steep and muddy 0.25-mile hike. Our kayak journey took about 1.5 hours, but upon arrival, standing before this natural wonder was worth every moment.
The waterfall’s strength and cleansing energies are palpable, and no photo can truly capture its grandeur. To access Sol’s Creek, take Highway 281 to the boat ramp off Bear Lake Road, located 15 miles north of Slick Fisher Road. From the boat ramp, head south until you reach the island. Once you face the island, turn left and kayak about ten minutes to witness the waterfall peeking from the mountains. Then, enter the cove below to hike to the falls.
The challenging hike to Paradise Falls
Paradise Falls presents an entirely different kind of experience. While the waterfall itself is beautiful, the adventure lies in the hike needed to reach it. Surrounded by a rocky pad often occupied by college students, this location features a refreshing swimming pool perfect for hot summer days.
To find Paradise Falls, start at Canada Rd, Tuckasegee, NC, 28783. The trailhead offers two routes: the easier path takes you to the river and across to the falls, while the more challenging trail descends steeply from the parking lot. This second route requires careful navigation, especially after rainfall.
The hike to Paradise Falls is physically demanding, with numerous ups and downs. As I approached the falls, I encountered other hikers covered in dirt and looking exhausted, a true testament to the hike’s difficulty. While the falls are worth the effort, be mindful of your surroundings, as the rocky terrain can be treacherous. Always hike with a buddy for safety.
Rough Butt Creek Falls: A serene escape
As we near the end of this waterfall journey, I want to highlight Rough Butt Creek Falls, another lesser-known gem. I discovered this waterfall through a guidebook, which noted that it requires traversing private property to reach the trailhead. The serene 2.6-mile out-and-back hike leads you through a lush forest with a vibrant ecosystem, providing a grounding experience.
The path to Rough Butt Creek Falls winds past large rocks and babbling creeks, engaging all your senses as you make your way to the waterfall. To reach this hidden beauty, follow NC 107 South from Western Carolina University, then turn onto Caney Fork Road. Continue until you reach Ruff Butt Road, marked by a wooden sign. Even though it’s private property, the public is welcome to walk the road. Just be sure to park in the grassy area at the intersection of Caney Fork Road and Ruff Butt Road.
For those who are locals or planning a visit, I highly recommend picking up a copy of North Carolina Waterfalls by Kevin Adams. This guide features over 1,000 waterfalls across North Carolina, complete with detailed descriptions and beautiful photographs. It’s an invaluable resource for finding your next waterfall adventure in Asheville and beyond.