Land of Waterfalls: 250+ Cascades Near Brevard

Known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” the Brevard area is home to more than 250 waterfalls, Pisgah National Forest and the endless beauty of North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains.

Some of the area's waterfalls have starred in blockbusters like The Hunger Games and The Last of the Mohicans. Others offer more secluded spots to reflect and re-energize during a memorable hike. Start planning your waterfalls day trip with this primer on some of the region's most famous falls.

Please use caution and obey all rules and warnings. The rocks around waterfalls are often slippery, and the currents can be strong.

1 Rainbow Falls

1 Rainbow Falls

SapphireSee on map

The constant mist in warm weather sends rainbows cascading toward the sun, giving the waterfall its name. Rainbow Falls, also known as High Falls, is on the Horsepasture River.

WebsiteDirections

2 Looking Glass Falls

2 Looking Glass Falls

BrevardSee on map

One of the country’s most-viewed falls, Looking Glass Falls is 35 feet wide and drops 65 feet. It was named for the reflective layer of ice that forms on Looking Glass Rock during the winter. You can see it from the observation deck or you can walk to its base.

Website(828) 877-3265Directions

3 Sliding Rock

photo: Transylvania County TDA

3 Sliding Rock

Pisgah ForestSee on map

This 60-foot natural water slide in the Pisgah National Forest isn’t a waterfall, but you could say it turns you into one. Wear your cut-off shorts, sit down and slide down the rock into the pool below, where 60-degree water feels fantastic in the summer heat.

Website(828) 877-3265Directions

4 Turtleback Falls

4 Turtleback Falls

Lake ToxawaySee on map

Other falls of note in the area include a favorite swimming spot, Moore Cove Falls, which spills over a tremendous granite shelf, creating a falls you can walk behind. Twin Falls, as the name suggests, features two beautiful falls.

Website(828) 966-9099Directions

5 Whitewater Falls

photo: U.S. Forest Service

5 Whitewater Falls

CashiersSee on map

This 411-foot waterfall, called the "King of Waterfalls," is the highest waterfall in the eastern United States and has been designated a North Carolina Natural Heritage Area. No other waterfall in the East has its combination of water volume, height and visibility.

WebsiteDirections

6 DuPont State Forest

6 DuPont State Forest

Cedar MountainSee on map

DuPont State Recreational Forest was put in the spotlight during the filming of The Hunger Games in the summer of 2011. Triple Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the covered bridge at High Falls all served as backdrops for scenes from the film.

Website(828) 877-6527Directions

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the quaint mountain town of Brevard, a Land of Waterfalls base camp of sorts, where you can enjoy everything from boutiques and bistros to music festivals.

Visit Outdoor NC for additional tips on how to connect with nature and help preserve the natural beauty of our state.