Waterfalls Located Along Highway 215

Many people might not immediately think of scenic waterfalls when they think of a highway. But North Carolina's lush landscape offers unmatched waterfalls flowering the winding roads and highways. Highway 215 especially, passes through multiple captivating waterfalls, making it a must-see destination.

Highway 215 runs from (Rosman) Transylvania County to Canton at Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 74. The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway crosses over Highway 215, specifically at a point called Beech Gap.

Enjoy a Drive Along Highway 215

If you're passing through or are in need of a road trip, consider driving along Highway 215 in North Carolina! Let's take a look at some of the most popular waterfalls along the highway so you can start planning your pit stops along the way!

Lemon Falls

A two-drop, fifteen foot high waterfall located on Lemance Creek less than a mile from NC-215. The setting is below the road so despite the proximity, the falls feel more isolated.

Diamond Creek Falls

A roadside waterfall in Balsam Grove, located about a mile and a half off of NC-215 North of US 64. The waterfall looks very nice from the side of the road but there is no way to get down to the base that doesn’t involve trespassing.

French Broad Falls, Mill Shoals Falls and Cathedral Falls

Accessed via a riverside hiking trail at the religious retreat named Living Waters, visitors can see gorgeous twin waterfalls both about 15 ft. high. Sit & soak in this beautiful setting on boulders by an old mill that is now part of the retreat.

From the twin waterfalls, turn around and follow the riverside trail downstream to see more cascades and Cathedral Falls. There are several side trails to the right for picnic spots and up-close views of the rushing water. 

Bird Rock Falls

The route to this waterfall is on private property, but the trail is open to the public. Generally considered easy 0.50 mile, out and back trail taking an average of 15 min to complete leads to Bird Rock Falls. 

Wildcat Falls

Wildcat Falls is a 60-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, just a mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway on the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Although there are no signs for this waterfall, it isn't too hard to find. From the intersection of Highway 215 and the Blue Ridge Parkway, go north on NC 215 for 8/10 of a mile and watch for the small steep drive on the right, marked with a tiny roadside sign (BR 1).

Depending on the season and level of rainfall, Wildcat Falls can either be bursting with water or just a small trickle. We recommend checking it out after a nice rain storm, just be sure to wear appropriate clothes and footwear for mud, puddles, and rainy weather.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• 60-foot waterfall
• 1 mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway
• 1.5 miles roundtrip
• Dogs welcome on a leash

Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades

A modest but beautiful waterfall, Bubbling Spring Branch is a short but steep hike just 1.8 miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway on NC-215. There is a nice parking area for several cars along the road, but there aren't any signs so use caution when pulling over.

From the road, you can get a glimpse of the waterfall but you're better off taking the hike. It's a beautiful setting and a great spot for early fall color. There are several large boulders at the base, making it the perfect spot to crack open a good book, enjoy a romantic date, or have a picnic.

Sunburst Falls

Found about 37 miles from Asheville, Sunburst Falls is a nice spot for a picnic, photo, or relaxing pit stop. Many people refer to this stop as Sunburst Falls, since it's near the Sunburst community in Haywood County.

To get there, drive on NC-215 north of the Blue Ridge Parkway and exit at Milepost 423. When you reach a pretty stone bridge arching over a series of cascades—you've arrived at Sunburst Falls! Although the waterfall isn't tall, the cascades and overall look of the area are quite captivating. Feel free to dip your toes in but if you want to swim, check out the nearby Sunburst Swimming Hole.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• Perfect picnic spot
• Enjoy the view from the road or underneath the bridge
• Easily accessible (including wheelchairs, scooters and strollers)
• Roadside parking
• Dogs welcome on a leash

FAQ's

Stay at Meraki Escape

You can come see our forest and waterfall "escapes" in person at Meraki Escape. All of the waterfalls we've recommended are within 30 minutes of our cabins in Brevard, NC. 

Our luxury mountain cabins are the perfect complement to your advantages and we have tailored experiences and packages designed for the perfect honeymoon or anniversary. Not celebrating anything special? We invite you to turn a spontaneous weekend away into an unforgettable couple's getaway in the scenic mountains of North Carolina.