Catawba Falls
The trail to these falls is a brief 2.1 mile hike from “Old Fort.” Dogs can use this trail.
The falls are on in the Blue Ridge. They’re over 100 feet high. It’s a destination that is easily accessible for most visitors. This waterfall has two or three major sections. Whether or not it’s actually two or three depends on one’s point of view. It’s located along the Catawba River and this is where the river drops a total of 600 feet in just half of a mile.
The Upper Catawba Falls is considered to be the biggest drop. It’s a 50 foot free-fall into a deep, clear pool.
The Middle Catawba Falls has multiple sections that total to a 100 foot drop. It has free-falling water and areas where the water cascades downwards.
The third section is somewhat contentious because it’s man-made. It’s actually below an old dam. Some consider it to be a third section of these falls. Some argue that the fact that it’s part of the old dam means that it is man-made and therefore it doesn’t count.
Catawba Falls, whether it has three sections or two, is one of the best waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest.
Moore Cove Falls
These are plunging falls that are near the Davidson River in this famous land of waterfalls. The ferns near here fill the area with their beauty. The trail to these falls is a wonderful walk through the woods that even the children will enjoy.
The Moore Cove Falls are a 50 foot free-falling falls that are nestled in a valley. It spills over an angular rock that features a massive cliff. There’s also a cave that’s situated behind the falls.
Looking Glass Waterfalls
This is often said to be one of the best waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest. They’re easy to get to. They are even visible from the side of the road. Simply park on the side and walk to the observation deck. They got their name because they freeze over in the winter and the result resembles a looking glass. These falls are 60 feet high. It’s possible to wade in the water at the base of one of the nicest Pisgah National Forest waterfalls. These falls are about an hour by car from Asheville.
Upper Creek Falls
These falls even include a rope swing for people who want to use it to dive in. These falls are actually a series of cascades that do down 80 feet along a rocky slope. They’re near Jonas Ridge and Morganton. They’re not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Twin Falls
These two falls are 100-foot waterfalls that can be seen at the same time. They’re one of the most beautiful of the Pisgah National Forest Waterfalls. You can see the water cascading down the rocks in this wonderful natural setting.
Roaring Fork Creek Falls
These falls tumble down 100 feet into a superb setting. They’re at the base of Mount Mitchell. In fact, they’re right next to the Mt. Mitchell Gold Club Resort.
There’s an easy hike to these falls. Along the way, you’ll see lots of rhododendron.
Elk River Falls
They’re located near Beech Mountain and the town of Elk Park. This 50 foot waterfall spills over a rock cliff into a beautiful, scenic, oval-shaped pool. Visitors can safely stand on flat rocks and see the falls. It’s a perfect place to take some pictures and make some videos. Visitors do need to be wary of the strong currents in front of these falls.
Harper Creek Falls
Harper Creek Falls are divided into two sections. The top section is a bit higher and longer than the bottom section. The bedrock that’s between the two “slides” holds a pool. There’s also a big, round pool with clear water at the base. It’s a spot that visitors like to head to because they can swim in it. This is one of the best waterfalls in the mountains. These falls aren’t far from the Wilson Creek Visitor’s Center. There’s a trail that starts in the parking lot there. It has a steep climb that passes through a camping area.
Douglas Falls
They’re near Asheville. Its waters flow over a cliff that allows visitors to walk behind the falls. It’s a beautiful setting that’s nestled in the Big Ivy area of the forest. The last 9 miles of the route from Asheville is an extremely scenic, winding road. You’ll pass about ten cascades along that route. One of these is Walker Falls.
Walker Falls
These falls aren’t far from Asheville. The water that flows over them comes from “Craggy Gardens.” Visitors need to see these falls during the warmer months because they’re closed in the Winter.
The Pisgah National Forest is a wonderful place that’s loaded with stunning scenery. Visitors who love waterfalls that they can hike to and swim near will find that this place is ideal. There’s also a lot of camping in this area.
