Western North Carolina boasts some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the United States. Many of the very best are just a short drive from our luxury bed and breakfast in Waynesville! Visitors can fill a whole day exploring all the beautiful falls in the area. Here are some of our top picks.
Moore Cove Falls
54-minute drive, 32 miles from The Yellow House.
Moore Cove Falls in Pisgah National Forest is a dynamic 1.2-mile roundtrip trail leading to a 50-foot-tall waterfall. The trail is easy for families and small children to hike as it climbs gently through the forest and has few obstacles. Be sure to go on a hot summer day to enjoy the cold waterfall shower.
Looking Glass Falls
56-minute drive, 33 miles from The Yellow House.
After hiking to Moore Cove Falls, drive just short of a mile further to Looking Glass Falls. Take the short walk down the stairs from the observation deck to the base of the waterfall. There you can feel the mist from this massive waterfall, and if you are especially courageous, you can even take a dip at the base of the falls. Just be careful getting in! Benches are available for resting.
Dry Falls
1 hour and 4-minute drive, 52 miles from The Yellow House.
In nearby Nantahala National Forest, take a short trek down the stairs and to this incredible 65-foot waterfall. TIP: Be sure to walk ALL the way down the stairs and under and behind the waterfall. There is a viewing platform that is wheelchair and stroller accessible at the top of the stairs.
Bridal Veil Falls
1 hour and 5-minute drive, 52 miles from The Yellow House.
Just a mile away from Dry Falls.is Bridal Veil Falls, a 60-foot waterfall located immediately adjacent to the road. When the highway was originally built, traffic actually drove behind the falls, but due to icing in the winter, the new highway rerouted traffic to a safer distance several yards away. Because of it’s location near the road, this falls is fun and extremely accessible. Be sure to take a walk behind the falls and catch a rainbow through the falls on a bright, sunny day.
High Falls
53-minute drive, 39 miles from The Yellow House.
The 3/4 of a mile trail features large stone steps and can be strenuous, but it is well worth it to see this massive 150-foot waterfall. Watch where you step – this is a hot spot for salamanders. Safety tip: check the Lake Glenville (West Fork) dam release schedule before you go! When the dam release happens, water levels will rise quickly – so be sure to plan ahead and be safe. Take Highway 107 or Cullowhee Mountain Road for a more scenic route.
After a day discovering the awe-inspiring waterfalls of Western North Carolina, retire to an endlessly romantic and luxurious suite at The Yellow House, a top-rated Waynesville bed and breakfast. Enjoy made from scratch breakfasts each morning, spacious accommodations in a gorgeous natural setting, and a gracious staff to guide you on your local explorations! Come explore the wild beauty of Western North Carolina, we will be here to welcome you!
SAFETY NOTE: Please remember that climbing around, on, and under waterfalls can be dangerous as rocks are slippery. Wear comfortable shoes that you don’t mind getting wet.
