Waterfalls at Pisgah National Forest

If you're looking to spend a day outdoors chasing the natural sights, Pisgah National Forest is the perfect option. Did you know Pisgah was one of the first national forests in the US and was established in 1916?

The forest encompasses over 500,000 acres and is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls, and hundreds of miles of trails to explore. The forest is a popular destination for premier outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, whitewater sports, rock climbing, and more! 

Visit Pisgah National Forest

There's no place quite like Pisgah National Forest and if you're staying with us, these waterfalls are less than a 45-minute drive away from our property. While some of these waterfalls require a difficult trek, there are several nearby cascades that boast enchanting beauty and require very minimal effort.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• Beautiful location
• The forest includes the southern part of the Appalachian Mountains and parts of the Blue Ridge and Great Balsam Mountains.
• Many, many captivating waterfalls
• Wide range of easy and challenging hikes to choose from
• Some of the best outdoor recreation in the U.S.
• Convenient picnic shelters

Best Waterfalls at Pisgah National Forest

Here are some of the best waterfalls to see when you visit Pisgah National Forest. Make sure to pack the essentials like a camera, sunscreen, and some sturdy hiking boots!

Looking Glass Falls

One of the most iconic waterfalls in the region, Looking Glass Falls is situated along the scenic Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway in Pisgah National Forest. Doubly so, Looking Glass Falls is also one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in Pisgah.

The convenient observation deck allows guests to take photos and admire the 60-foot cascade from a safe distance. If a sense of adventure sparks, you can take a short trip down the stairs to the base of the falls and feel the mist on your face.

Don't forget your camera when checking out Looking Glass as you won't want to forget this one! Snap an Instagram-worthy selfie with your partner or simply live in the moment and marvel at the beauty of the falls in person.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• Viewable from the road
• Easy trail
• 60-foot cascade drops
• 0.3 miles roundtrip
• Dogs welcome on a leash
• Swimmable in the summer

Moore Cove Falls

Another natural wonder, Moore Cove Falls offers a peaceful experience that isn't too difficult to reach for most visitors. One unique aspect of Moore Cove Falls is you can walk behind the waterfall, creating a memorable and immersive encounter with nature. Soak in the tranquil sounds of falling water as you breathe in the crisp fresh air.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• Viewable from the road
• Easy trail
• 50-foot cascade drops
• 1.8 miles roundtrip
• Dogs welcome on a leash
  

Slick Rock Falls

Conveniently located near Looking Glass Falls, Slick Rock Falls offers a tranquil escape with minimal effort. Slick Rock Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Pisgah Nation Forest and is accessible via a short hike along a well-marked trail near the village of Highlands.

The waterfall drops about 35 feet over a series of rocky steps, creating a serene and beautiful scene surrounded by lush forest. The trail to Slick Rock Falls is relatively easy, making it a popular destination for hikers looking to enjoy the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains in a less crowded setting.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• 35-foot cascade drops
• Well-marked trail
• Near Looking Glass Falls
• 1.8 miles roundtrip
• Dogs welcome on a leash

Cove Creek Falls

An easy drive from Asheville, Cove Creek Falls has multiple cascades and is a scenic spot in the Pisgah National Forest.  The falls are located near the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in the Pisgah National Forest. If you're visiting Asheville, Cove Creek Falls is a nice day trip.

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• 50-foot cascade drops
• Close to Asheville
• Nice footbridges to travel on
• 4.2-mile loop
• Dogs welcome on a leash
  

Daniel Ridge Falls

The waterfall with many names, Daniel Ridge Falls is also sometimes called: Tom's Spring Branch Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, and Jackson Falls. It’s an easy half-mile hike on the Daniel Ridge Trail to reach the base of this 150-ft. waterfall. You can either hike a quick one-mile direct round-trip or the entire four-mile loop that includes the top of the waterfall. 

Here's Why You'll Love It:

• 150-foot waterfall
• Long or short hike to see the falls
• Can access the top of the waterfall
• 0.5 miles roundtrip
• Dogs welcome on a leash

Log Hollow & Upper Log Hollow Falls

Sometimes called "Kissing Falls", Log Hollow Falls is a 25-ft. waterfall. While it's an easy one-mile round-trip hike to reach, it's still a hidden jewel that many waterfall lovers miss. Plus, there's a second unnamed 80-ft. waterfall about a quarter-mile past Log Hollow.

Logging Road Falls:

Enjoy a stunning 70-ft waterfall off of Forest Road 475-B. It's a bumpy road, typically passable by the average vehicle because it can be washed out and rutted at times. If you can find it though, and you want to see a handful of waterfalls without too much effort, then F.R. 475-B is the road for you. 

Whaleback Falls

A refreshing cascade flows into the 40-foot-long pool, surrounded by boulders. It is a hidden, peaceful swimming hole deep in Pisgah National Forest. It's a short walk from the road. 

Courthouse Falls

This waterfall plunges about 45 ft. from a narrow chute into a deep pool, perfect for a dip on a hot summer's day. It's an easy hike (about 7/10-mile round-trip) from the forest service road.

Hollywood Filming at Pisgah National Forest

Did you know all of the exterior shooting for the uber-popular dystopian novel, The Hunger Games, was filmed in North Carolina? Specifically, parts of Pisgah National Forest were used as the backdrop for the arena at the 74th Annual Hunger Games, along with the early scene where Katniss and Gale go hunting. 

Filming specifically took place in the Big Ivy Area of the forest. The scene where Katniss finds Peeta hiding amongst the rocks was filmed here. However, the cave the pair hid in was created on a soundstage. It's not a surprise the captivating beauty of Pisgah National Forest was used as the perfect setting for the movie. The entire area is lush, colorful, and bursting with life. 

Guided Tours

For guests that want to experience the waterfalls of Pisgah National Forsest but desire a little guided help we highly recommend the following companies. Both are Meraki Favoraites!

Nero Coffee Hikes

Asheville Jeep Tours

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.