The Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina are home to dozens of breathtaking waterfalls cascading down slopes and rock faces.
These four favorite waterfalls are located in Macon County, just outside of the charming town of Highlands, N.C. While three of them are visible from the roadside of US Highway 64 (also known as the Waterfall Byway), the true majesty of these falls are best viewed from their trails and observation areas.
Cullasaja Falls
This 250-foot cascade can be found along US Highway 64 less than 9 miles west of Highlands. If you want to snap a photo, look for a very small roadside pull-off on your left. (It’s recommended that you pull into this area from the eastbound lane, and park completely off the road.) The view of Cullasaja is lovely from the parking area, especially in winter once the trees lose their leaves. Experienced hikers can take the steep, unmarked trail down to the base of the falls for another perspective.
Bridal Veil Falls
You can’t miss this waterfall located about 2 miles west of Highlands on US Highway 64. The road was once routed behind the falls (later changed due to problems with icing in winter), but visitors today can still park the car to walk behind this beautiful natural feature.
Dry Falls
Another waterfall that invites visitors to venture behind its falling waters is Dry Falls, located close to Bridal Veil Falls, about 3 miles west of Highlands alongside US Highway 64. Look for signs to the parking area, then take in the stunning view from the accessible observation area or walk the short paved trail that takes you up to and behind the 75-foot cascade.
Glen Falls
The popular two-mile out-and-back trail at the Glen Falls Scenic Area takes hikers past three gorgeous waterfalls. The trail leads downhill via several switchbacks to connect observation areas for each falls. On your hike back up, be sure to look for the side trail leading to a birds-eye view of Overflow Creek and the surrounding valley. Parking for Glen Falls is located along NC Highway 106, about 1.7 miles from US Highway 64 in Highlands.
Before you visit these natural beauties, please keep in mind the basics of waterfall safety. Never climb rock faces, jump off waterfalls or dive into the water. Obey all posted signs, and stick to designated trails and observation platforms. Don’t play in or wade into the water above a waterfall, where strong currents can sweep you over the falls without warning. Stay safe, and enjoy!
Want more suggestions? Here’s our guide to waterfalls in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains.