Asheville, North Carolina, is a mecca for hikers and nature lovers seeking mountain views and impressive waterfalls and swimming holes to cool off in. While there are dozens of remarkable trails within 45 minutes of this small city, here are 5 of the best waterfall hikes near Asheville.
“Nothing is softer or more flexible than water. Yet nothing can resist it.“
– Lao Tzu
Hooker Falls
Starting this list near Brevard in the DuPont State Forest is Hooker Falls Trail. A gradual downhill hike, suitable for young kids and families, meanders through the forest. After a relatively short walk, you’ll be rewarded with the beautiful Hooker Falls, cascading at 12-15 ft tall with a large swimming hole that’s perfect for taking a dip.
On hot summer days, the swimming hole can be crowded, but there’s a wide area to spread out with lots of rocks to lay on or have a picnic.
- Easy 0.8 mile out-and-back trail
- Free access to the waterfall and park
- Dogs are allowed on leashes
High Falls
While in DuPont State Forest, venture onto the High Falls Trail for a chance to see this stunning 120 ft tall waterfall. Only 0.5 miles from the visitor center parking area, you can see this beautiful waterfall from a viewing area above, or walk down to the base of the falls. This is the highest cascading waterfall in the park, and is one of the most impressive in the state.
When the water isn’t too high and the weather is good, you might choose to walk across the rocks along the river bank to get closer to the base of the falls. Be extremely careful of your footing so you do not slip.
- Easy to moderate 1 mile out-and-back trail
- Free access throughout the state forest
- Walk along the rocks at your own risk!
Skinny Dip Falls
This multi-layered waterfall in Pisgah National Forest is a short, family-friendly hike to a refreshing swimming hole. It’s the perfect spot to relax and cool off in the cold mountainous stream. Walk along a well-marked and moderate trail that leads you through lush forest and over a charming footbridge. Early on the trail, keep an eye out because you’ll pass by the famous Dragon Tree.
While the name “Skinny Dip Falls” may spark your mind, clothing is very much required as this area is visited by many hikers of all ages! So, definitely put on your bathing suit and take a dip.
- Comfortable 1 mile out-and-back trail
- About 200 ft of elevation gain
- Free to access via the Blue Ridge Parkway
Moore Cove Falls
The delicate and high cascading Moore Cove Falls is a must-see waterfall hike near Asheville, NC. Trickling down from a 50 ft tall rock overhang, this waterfall has a cove you can walk into behind the water. This peaceful trail through Pisgah National Forest is accessible for all experience levels of hikers.
Depending on the season and amount of rainfall or ice melt, the waterfall can range from a slight trickle to a powerful stream. Take in the falls from the designated viewing area or walk up close and feel the mist.
- Nice 1.2 mile out-and-back trail
- About 150 ft of elevation change
- No fees
Looking Glass Falls
Saving the best for last (in my opinion), Looking Glass Falls could belong in the dictionary next to the word “waterfall.” As one of the most famous and popular waterfalls in the state, Looking Glass Falls in Pisgah National Forest is a must-see for visitors and local nature-lovers.
Just pulling over and parking along U.S. 276 (Forest Heritage Scenic Byway) allows you to walk a few steps to the rock wall or wooden viewing area to see the falls. You can walk down the wooden steps to get closer to the base of the falls and also swim or wade in the stream away from the base in the spring or summer. Standing at 60 ft tall and impressive during any season, this waterfall is well worth a visit.
- Easiest viewpoint with the highest reward
- Pisgah National Forest is free to access
Asheville Waterfall Hikes are a Must for Trailblazers
While the whole Tar Heel State has much to offer outdoorsy people, western North Carolina is a special hub for amazing hikes, mountain views, and stunning waterfalls. Basing your travels out of Asheville or Brevard will provide you with plenty of bucket-list-worthy trails that are free to access!
No need to venture into a National Park when so many trails are right around the corner.
