8 WATERFALLS NEAR HIGHLANDS, NC
Eight waterfalls to visit near Highlands, North Carolina—from scenic roadside views to woodland hikes.
Choose a quick stop, make a morning of the trails, or head toward Cashiers for a bigger outing. These are lovely places to build a mountain day around.
US 64 West · Short walk & stairs
A classic walk-behind-the-waterfall stop.
Follow the short path and stairs toward the falls; the route behind the cascade is available when conditions allow. A separate viewing platform offers a view without the descent. Use the designated parking lot and check current fees and access before visiting.
Trail details & directionsUS 64 West · Roadside scenery
An easy scenic stop near town.
Bridal Veil sits along US 64 west of Highlands and can be seen from the road. Make it part of a scenic drive through the gorge, using designated parking and viewing areas. Follow current signs for access around the falls.
Trail details & directionsOff NC 106 · Forest hike
Several waterfall views in one outing.
A woodland trail descends to a series of waterfall observation points. The return is uphill, so choose your turnaround point with that climb in mind. Wear trail shoes, bring water, and allow time to enjoy the different views.
Trail details & directionsCullasaja Gorge · Limited roadside parking
A dramatic view along the scenic byway.
Farther west on US 64, Cullasaja Falls tumbles through the gorge beside a narrow mountain road. The pull-off is very small. Stop only when safe parking is available, and enjoy the view from an appropriate viewing area without scrambling down the slope.
Trail details & directionsSouth of Highlands · Forest walk
A waterfall tucked into the woods.
Also called Big Shoals Falls, this outing pairs a forest walk with a secluded-feeling waterfall setting. Access includes an unpaved forest road off the NC 28 area. Review the current trail directions and road conditions before setting out.
Trail details & directionsNear Cashiers · Short walk
A lovely choice for a shorter outing.
South of Cashiers along NC 107, Silver Run Falls is reached by a short walk through the woods. It’s a useful option when you want waterfall scenery without committing to a long hike. Parking is limited; take care around the road.
Trail details & directionsHighlands area · Scenic forest hike
Rock, moss, and a quieter woodland setting.
A short forest hike leads to a waterfall spilling over a rocky outcrop, framed by moss and greenery. Use the linked trail guide to plan your route and check the current access details before heading into the woods.
Trail details & directionsBeyond Cashiers · Overlook outing
Make time for a big waterfall view.
A paved walkway leads to the upper overlook, with stairs continuing to a lower viewpoint. This is a longer drive from Highlands than the nearby US 64 stops. Check current recreation-area access and day-use fees, and stay on the designated overlook paths.
Trail details & directions