Soco Falls
Harry Zimmerman / shutterstock
Soco Falls are some of the most majestic falls in North Carolina because of the rock formations and double waterfalls. Soco Falls is located 11 miles east of Cherokee, as if you were heading to Maggie Valley. You can pull your vehicle off to the right side of the road and it’s only a short hike to reach the falls, which are great to visit any time of the year.
Rainbow Falls
TheBigMK / shutterstock
Rainbow Falls is a 150-foot waterfall that boasts impressive 360-degree views. It is one of the most incredible waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This waterfall is named Rainbow Falls because on sunny days after the mist rolls out, you will be able to see a rainbow. Rainbow Falls is located one hour away from Asheville and near Lake Toxaway. These falls are only one sequence of cascades on a two-mile section of the canal. You can climb up the river 1/3 of a mile and go swimming in Turtleback Fall’s swimming hole.
Looking Glass Falls
Not too far off the Blue Ridge Parkway, close to Brevard, you will find Looking Glass Falls. You can see views of the falls from the road, but the scenes are best enjoyed up close and personal. The hike in and out is less than half a mile and is easy for all levels of hikers. Looking Glass Falls is a tall waterfall that towers down from a cliff. You can dip your toes in the bottom pool of the falls to cool off in the summer months.
Bust Your Butt Falls
Carol A Hudson / shutterstock
If you are looking at visiting Dry Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls is only three miles from there or 10 miles from Franklin. Bust Your Butt Falls is a favorite for people who enjoy climbing and adventure. Many people climb up the falls and jump off – that is probably where the name came from. This place is also known as Quarry Falls and is located on the Cullasaja River near the highlands. For those who just want to sit back and relax, there are many rocks to sit on and enjoy sun tanning, picnicking, or just watching people swim in the swimming hole. These falls are popular year-round.
Dry Falls
Dave Allen Photography / shutterstock
Dry Falls is a kid-friendly hike with only a quarter of a mile trail to reach the falls. You will walk behind the pictorial falls on the Cullasaja River – which is close to the highlands – as well as in the Nantahala National Forest. Many people consider Dry Falls as one of the easiest and most striking waterfalls in North Carolina. The waterfall itself is 65 feet high and tumbles over a rock cliff into a riverbed below. You can access the waterfall with a wheelchair and stroller. The drive to Dry Falls is scenic, as you will be passing through the Cullasaja Gorge.