Waterfalls Near Asheville: The Ultimate Guide
Twenty-one stunning waterfalls in the vicinity of Asheville that deserve a spot on your bucket list
We've chosen the most breathtaking waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains area, perfect for a day trip or a weekend adventure from Asheville. From beginner-friendly paths to more challenging hikes, there's a waterfall for every enthusiasm level.
Crabtree Falls
- Trail Length: 2.2 miles out and back
- Elevation Gain: 541 ft.
- Difficulty: moderate
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hr. 20 mins.
- Good for swimming? No
This hidden gem offers a stunning waterfall that's impressive year-round. The path descends steeply with many stairs, so bear in mind you'll be climbing them on your way back. Reach Crabtree Falls for a unique, secluded experience that feels removed from the rest of the world.
Linville Falls
- Trail Length: up to 1.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 354 ft.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hr. 9 mins.
- Good for swimming? No
Linville Falls is another favorite for its accessibility and multiple viewpoints. Take the 1.9-mile trail to view the falls from all angles and discover the beauty hidden around every bend. Visit these falls for unparalleled panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, & Drift Falls
- Trail Length: 3.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 770 ft.
- Difficulty: moderate
- Distance from Asheville: 1 hr. 14 mins.
- Good for swimming? Yes
Gorges State Park is an underrated gem with excellent facilities and a beautiful campground. Take advantage of this stunning park by hiking to Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Drift Falls, three extraordinary waterfalls in one quick hike. Swimming is possible at both Rainbow and Turtleback Falls, making this a high-reward, short hike ideal for families and casual hikers.
Sliding Rock
- Trail Length: about 0.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 19 ft.
- Difficulty: super easy
- Distance from Asheville: 49 mins.
- Good for swimming? YES
Although not technically a waterfall, Sliding Rock is an iconic North Carolina attraction. This 60-foot natural slide empties into an 8-foot deep pool, perfect for a refreshing dip. In summer, visit Sliding Rock with lifeguards and change rooms for a safer, more enjoyable experience.
Looking Glass Falls
- Trail Length: under 0.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 36 ft.
- Difficulty: easy (but stairs are involved)
- Distance from Asheville: 44 mins.
- Good for swimming? Kinda
Looking Glass Falls is an easy waterfall to access and offers an incredible view. The stairs can get crowded, but the mesmerizing sight of the roaring water crashing down will make it worthwhile. This waterfall is the perfect backdrop for photos or just enjoying the simple beauty of nature.
Catawba Falls
- Trail Length: 2.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 308 ft.
- Difficulty: easy
- Distance from Asheville: 30 minutes
- Good for swimming? Yes
Catawba Falls, affectionately known as "kah-taw-buh," skyrocketed to popularity as it reopened following Hurricane Helene. The trail leads to a cascading waterfall over 100 feet tall, and viewing platforms have been added, making it even easier to marvel at the sight.
Graveyard Fields Loop Trail (Upper & Lower Falls)
- Trail Length: 1.3 miles
- Elevation Gain: 173 ft.
- Difficulty: moderate
- Distance from Asheville: 57 minutes
- Good for swimming? No
Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Graveyard Fields is a hiker's paradise. The trail splits after about 0.6 miles, with one path leading to Lower Falls and the other to Upper Falls. Challenge yourself with a slightly longer hike for the magnificent sight of Upper Falls. Both waterfalls are surrounded by golden foliage in autumn, making for unforgettable views.
Hickory Nut Falls
- Trail Length: 1.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 328 ft.
- Difficulty: moderately easy
- Distance from Asheville: 58 minutes
- Good for swimming? No
After its recent reopening post-Hurricane Helene, Chimney Rock State Park has welcomed visitors again. Hike to Hickory Nut Falls for breathtaking views of the waterfall and the gorge below, then venture further upshire to the famous Chimney Rock formation.
Daniel Ridge Loop Trail
- Trail Length: 4.6 miles
- Elevation Gain: 810 ft.
- Difficulty: moderate
- Distance from Asheville: 59 minutes
- Good for swimming? No
The Daniel Ridge Loop Trail, nestled amidst stunning vistas, is worth visiting for the trail itself. Although the waterfall itself may not be the most impressive, the picturesque trail and rugged terrain make for an adventurous and inspiring hike.
Rocky Fork State Park
- Trail Length: varies
- Elevation Gain: varies
- Difficulty: easy to challenging
- Distance from Asheville: 45 minutes
- Good for swimming? Yes
Travel across the border to Tennessee and find Rocky Fork State Park, home to numerous cascades, crystal-clear swimming holes, and lush green forests. Enjoy a family-friendly hike to discover hidden gems like Big Sluiceway, Johnsontown Falls, and Lower Falls.
Wright Creek Falls (Lake Jocassee)
- Trail Length: varies
- Elevation Gain: varies
- Difficulty: easy to challenging
- Distance from Asheville: 1.5 hours (including watercraft rental or boat ride)
- Good for swimming? Yes
For an unforgettable aquatic adventure, head to Devil's Fork State Park in South Carolina. Explore Lake Jocassee by boat to reach multiple waterfalls, such as Wright Creek Falls, Mill Creek Falls, and Laurel Falls. Swimming and fishing are popular activities near the falls, making for a perfect, refreshing escape.
- After a day of hiking the challenging trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains, pitch your tent at a home-and-garden store that offers camping gear for a comfortable outdoor lifestyle.
- As you plan your next adventure travel itinerary, don't forget to include a visit to the breathtaking waterfalls around Asheville for an unforgettable hiking experience.
- Once you've explored the stunning waterfalls in the area, return to Asheville and share your adventures with friends back home, giving them tips on which trails to tackle for their own adventure-filled travels.
- For a unique emotional journey, pack your bags and embark on a week-long adventure, hiking different trails each day to reach the beautiful waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains, capturing a slice of the adventure lifestyle and taking it back home with you.
