In the Nantahala National Forest, with easy trail access right across from the NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center), you will find a sweet creekside hike to a 30+ foot waterfall. The Townhouse Falls hike is a 2-mile out-and-back along Townhouse Branch before it dumps into the Nantahala River, in Bryson City, NC. This hike is considered easy, and the waterfall, which is wedged between two ridgelines, is most serene. There’s space to relax at the foot of the falls and just take it all in. The word “peaceful” is regularly used to describe this beauty.
The hike is quite nice, as well. You’ll be beside the water, on wooded singletrack, on old road beds, and even go through a railroad tunnel. There’s a lot packed into this fairly short adventure.
Make sure to take your camera with space for lots of photos. And do not attempt to climb the falls. Waterfalls are powerful and slippery, and people are no match for them. Observe only and stay safe.