Tucked away in the lush surroundings of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, is a haven for adventurers and those who love the outdoors. The best waterfalls in Asheville, which cascade elegantly from craggy cliffs and meander through verdant forests, provide a captivating display of peace and beauty in nature.
Even though the city is well-known for its thriving arts scene, diverse culture, and old architecture, tourists are most enthralled with the area’s stunning waterfalls.
With the help of this tour, we’ll travel to some of the most stunning waterfalls that adorn the
picturesque landscape that surrounds Asheville.
Every waterfall offers a different view, enticing visitors to immerse themselves in the magnificence of nature, from the roaring cascades of majestic falls to the tranquil pools tucked away deep within the forest.
Discover the hidden gems of Asheville’s waterfalls by traveling with us through lovely forests,
meandering rivers, and twisting trails.
Whether you’re looking for the calm of a serene getaway or the excitement of adventure, Asheville’s waterfalls guarantee an amazing experience that will leave you in awe of and motivated by the natural beauties.
List Of Best Waterfalls In Asheville
1) Looking Glass Falls
Looking Glass Falls, a mesmerizing natural wonder hidden in Pisgah National Forest near Asheville, North Carolina, exemplifies the region’s breathtaking splendor. For audiences of all ages, its elegant waterfall, which plunges more than 60 feet into a tranquil pool below, is a sight to behold.
The falls’ name comes from the shimmering image they frequently take on, which is reminiscent of a mirror or “looking glass,” especially in the morning and afternoon when sunlight plays on the falling water.
Looking Glass Falls is a convenient and captivating stop for visitors taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is easily accessible from a roadside viewing spot.
Visitors are greeted to a symphony of rushing water and pure woodland surrounds whether they choose to climb the stairs for a closer look or admire the falls from a distance.
Looking Glass Falls is a timeless and enchanting site that leaves a lasting image of the natural splendor found in the Asheville area, appealing to photographers, nature enthusiasts, and families alike.
2) Sliding Rock
In the Pisgah National Forest, close to Brevard, North Carolina, is a naturally occurring water feature called Sliding Rock, one of the most unique attractions among the best waterfalls in Asheville.
Visitors can slide down this smooth, sloping rock structure into a cool pool of water underneath, making it a standout experience in the region.
The roughly 60-foot–long rock provides thrill-seekers of all ages with an incredible ride.
Even on the hottest summer days, Looking Glass Creek’s water flow keeps the temperature cool.
It is a well-liked location for both families and explorers because of the surrounding verdant forest and picturesque views, which enhance the experience’s attractiveness. The major draw is the slide itself, although guests can also enjoy swimming, picnicking, and taking in the area’s natural splendor.
Combining excitement and the natural world into one thrilling adventure, Sliding Rock offers a singular and unforgettable outdoor experience.
3) Triple Falls
Situated in the DuPont State Recreational Forest close to Brevard, North Carolina, Triple Falls stands out as one of the best waterfalls in Asheville and surrounding areas.
This amazing waterfall lives up to its name, comprised of three distinct cascades that flow down a steep cliffside, producing an enchanting exhibition of nature’s beauty that exemplifies why Asheville’s waterfalls are so renowned.
The falls rise to a total height of around 120 feet, and the beauty of the sight is enhanced by each tier.
A well-kept hiking track that provides beautiful views of the surrounding forest and streams allows
visitors to reach Triple Falls.
The biodiversity of the area surrounding the falls is abundant, and its attraction is enhanced by a variety of wildlife and beautiful foliage.
Everybody who ventures to explore Triple Falls’ beauties in the midst of the North Carolina Mountains is guaranteed a fascinating and enthralling experience, regardless of whether they are there to snap photographs, simply immerse themselves in natures tranquilly, or enjoy the flowing waters.
4) Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls is a charming waterfall located in Oregon, USA’s breathtaking Columbia River Gorge. The Falls, which cascade gently from a height of around 120 feet, have the appearance of a delicate bridal veil because of the way the water spills over the granite wall.
Among the best waterfalls in Asheville and its surroundings, Bridal Veil Falls stands out for its unique feature: the water fans out as it descends, creating an ethereal and captivating scene.
Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of this remarkable waterfall, which ranks high on any list of Asheville’s best cascades, after a short walk down a well-maintained trail. The falls are beautifully framed by the rich foliage of the surrounding forest, exemplifying why Asheville’s waterfalls are so highly regarded.
There are lots of places to go picnicking, take pictures, and just take in the gorge’s breathtaking natural splendor in this area. Bridal Veil Falls is a peaceful haven for nature lovers, beckoning them to appreciate its splendor and feel the serenity of the breathtaking wildness of the Pacific Northwest.
5) Linville Falls
Linville Falls, widely considered one of the best waterfalls in Asheville and its surrounding areas, enthralls visitors with its spectacular beauty. Tucked away in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains close to Asheville, North Carolina, this majestic cascade exemplifies why the region is renowned for its stunning waterfalls.
The falls, which drop into the breathtaking Linville Gorge after cascading over rocky cliffs, produce a breathtaking display of the mighty and grandeur of nature. Trails meander through verdant woodlands, providing hikers with a variety of viewpoints from which to view the falls.
For those who enjoy being outside, the surrounding environment is a paradise, offering chances for hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and photography.
The ideal starting point for seeing Linville Falls is Asheville, a bustling city renowned for its unique culture
and artistic atmosphere.
Before starting the picturesque trip to the falls, visitors can take in Asheville’s quaint downtown, which is home to artisan breweries, art galleries, and farm-to-table dining establishments.
An amazing experience surrounded by the splendor of the Appalachian environment awaits visitors to Linville Falls and Asheville, whether they are looking for outdoor adventure or just to soak up the creative spirit of the city.
6) Crabtree Falls
Crabtree Falls, located near Spruce Pine, North Carolina, is a hidden gem within the Pisgah National Forest. At a height of more than 400 feet, this tumbling waterfall—one of the tallest in the Southeast—offers a captivating spectacle as it cascades down a set of granite steps.
Among the best waterfalls in Asheville and its surrounding areas, Crabtree Falls offers hikers a moderate but enjoyable journey. The trail, exemplifying why Asheville’s waterfalls are so beloved, runs through a thick forest of rhododendron and mountain laurel.
As visitors approach this top-rated Asheville waterfall, they’re treated to beautiful views and the calming sound of rushing water, showcasing the natural beauty that makes the region’s cascades so popular.
In order to see the falls from different angles and take breathtaking pictures, visitors can explore the several overlooks along the route, which include rocky outcrops and wooden overlooks.
Because of the high biodiversity in the area around Crabtree Falls, nature lovers can see a variety of local plants and animals. Crabtree Falls, located in the untamed beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, offers an amazing outdoor experience for anyone seeking adventure or peace in the midst of nature.
7) Catawba Falls
Catawba Falls, located in the Pisgah National Forest in Old Fort, North Carolina, is a picturesque cascade beloved by both outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This magnificent cascade plunges into a peaceful lake below after descending over a sequence of granite ledges, producing an amazing spectacle.
The climb to Catawba Falls is a picturesque journey that passes through thick forests and crosses wooden bridges while providing vistas of the surrounding alpine scenery.
The trail is suitable for walkers of different ability levels due to its modest challenge, and in the spring and summer it is colorful with wildflowers.
Catawba Falls, ranking among the best waterfalls in Asheville, offers diverse experiences for visitors. On hot days, people can take a relaxing swim, stroll around the falls’ surrounding region, or simply unwind by the water’s edge.
This gem in Asheville’s collection of waterfalls provides the ideal getaway into the wild, showcasing why the area’s cascades are so highly regarded.
With its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, Catawba Falls delivers a remarkable outdoor experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, exemplifying the allure of Asheville’s best waterfalls.
8) Moore Cove Falls
Moore Cove Falls, located in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina, is a hidden gem waiting discovery by nature aficionados. This charming waterfall creates a veil-like curtain of water that delicately lowers into a shallow pool below as it gradually flows down a steep cliff.
Moore Cove Falls, a hidden gem among the best waterfalls in Asheville and its surroundings, is reachable via a short, kid-friendly walk. The trail, showcasing why Asheville’s waterfalls are so popular, meanders through a verdant forest teeming with ferns and rhododendron.
This easy access and lush environment make Moore Cove Falls a standout in Asheville’s impressive collection of waterfalls, providing visitors a tranquil and engrossing experience in the natural world that exemplifies the region’s scenic beauty.
The walk comes to an end at the base of the falls, where guests may take in the breathtaking scenery and feel the cool mist on their faces. Vibrant wildflowers decorate the trail side in the spring and summer, contributing to the area’s picturesque appeal.
Moore Cove Falls is the ideal setting for leisurely strolls in the forest, taking pictures, or just spending time in peace and quiet.
9) Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, located in the midst of the Pisgah National Forest near Lake Toxaway and Brevard, North Carolina, is a towering waterfall known for its stunning beauty and charm. This striking waterfall plummets over a massive rock and descends around 150 feet to a crystal-clear lake below.
Rainbow Falls, a standout among the best waterfalls in Asheville and its vicinity, is named for the colorful rainbows that frequently appear in its mist on bright days. This enchanting feature elevates Rainbow Falls in the rankings of Asheville’s most impressive waterfalls.
As one of the area’s premier cascades, it presents an enthralling display of the power and grace of nature, embodying why Asheville’s waterfalls are renowned for their beauty and diversity.
Rainbow Falls is accessible by a modest stroll along the Horse pasture River Trail, which takes you through a magnificent forest filled with towering trees, moss-covered stones and the peaceful melody of running water. Hikers are rewarded to beautiful vistas and chances to see the region’s varied flora and fauna along the way.
Visitors are delighted with an amazing view of tumbling water surrounded by lush vegetation as soon as they get at the falls. Rainbow Falls is a well-liked site for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both natural beauty and recreation since the pool at the base of the falls offers a pleasant refuge for swimming and relaxing.
10) High Falls
Situated in the DuPont State Recreational Forest close to Brevard, North Carolina, High Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that is well-known for its striking height and idyllic surroundings.
High Falls, which plunges into a pool below, is a stunning exhibition of nature’s grandeur, cascading over a steep rock face for around 120 feet. Towering trees and steep rocks frame the waterfall, adding to its dramatic appeal and giving guests a breathtaking backdrop.
The magnificent trip to High Falls, accessible by well-maintained routes, allows visitors to enjoy the
forest’s diverse scenery, which includes quiet streams, lush woodlands, and panoramic views.
Hiking is made more enjoyable by interpretive signs along the trail that offer details about the history and ecology of the area.
Conclusion
Choosing the best waterfalls in Asheville, North Carolina, is a difficult task in a place where the beauty of nature is abundant. These magnificent natural treasures attract tourists as they cascade over verdant woodlands.
Looking Glass Falls, a breathtaking 60-foot waterfall that is easily accessible from the road and a favorite spot for both families and photographers, is one of the top finalists. Adventurers are drawn to Moore Cove Falls nearby, where a mild trek leads to a captivating waterfall curtain.
A gorgeous hike and a jaw-dropping 150 feet are available at Rainbow Falls in Gorges State Park for those looking for a more private experience.
Meanwhile, guests are welcome to swim beneath Skinny Dip Falls’ cascades, which offer a cool respite from the summer heat due to their serene seclusion.
It’s difficult to choose just one winner among Asheville’s waterfalls because each one presents a different harmony of beauty and tranquility.
The ideal waterfall ultimately comes down to personal choices, including ease of access, strenuousness of the hike, and need for seclusion. However, discovering these natural wonders offers life-changing encounters and a closer bond with Asheville’s breathtaking scenery.