Waterfalls
Waterfall Wonderland
Waterfalls are awesome, y'all. There's nothing quite like walking through an Appalachian forest and hearing the ever-growing roar of an ancient waterfall in the distance. Below are the waterfalls that I have visited (and have good photos of) in the Appalachian Mountains!
North Carolina Waterfalls
High Falls (Thompson River)
Distance: Approx. 3.8 miles one way ​
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High Falls on the Thompson River is a gorgeous waterfall, towering at 50 feet tall. It's out of the way and less visited than other waterfalls in the area, which is perfect for you solitude seekers.
South Carolina Waterfalls
Tennessee Waterfalls
Big Laurel Falls
Distance: 2 miles one way
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This awesome waterfall is located in the Virgin Falls State Natural Area near Sparta, TN. Behind this cascade is a really cool cave, making this falls a definite must-see.
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Looking Glass Falls
Distance: Short walk from parking area
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This is a very accessible waterfall located just off of Highway 276 near Brevard, NC. If you're heading up to the Blue Ridge Parkway on 276, Looking Glass needs to be on your list.
Schoolhouse Falls
Distance: Approx. 1.3 miles one way
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Schoolhouse Falls can be found in a network of trails near Panthertown Valley in Sapphire, NC. Schoolhouse cascades into a nice pool, making it a refreshing stop on a hot day.
Upper Whitewater Falls
Distance: Short walk from parking lot​
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Upper Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, is a magnificent sight to behold. There is a nice overlook to view this waterfall that is accessible for most skill levels. She's a beaut, y'all!
Fall Creek Falls
Distance: Approx. 1.5 miles one way
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Tucked into the mountain sides of the Sumter National Forest, Fall Creek Falls is an absolute stunner of a waterfall that feels like you're hiking into a fairytale land.
Brasstown Falls
Distance: 0.3 miles one way​
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Brasstown Falls is a series of 3 uniquely beautiful waterfalls located near Long Creek, South Carolina. Although this is a short trail, it's not easy! There are several roots along the trail, and it's best to avoid this one after a heavy rainfall.
Eastatoe Narrows
Distance: 2.6 miles one way ​
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Located near Rocky Bottom, South Carolina in the Jocassee Gorges, the Eastatoe Narrows is the perfect waterfall to see for a short day hike. While you're here, be sure to follow Horsepasture Road up to the gorgeous Jumping Off Rock overlook!
Issaqueena Falls
Distance: Short walk from parking area
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Located in the Stumphouse Park in Walhalla, South Carolina, Issaqueena Falls is a very popular spot for those looking for a quick, scenic stop. Check out Stumphouse Tunnel while you're here!
King Creek Falls
Distance: 0.9 miles one way​
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Just a few steps away from the Burrells Ford Campground near Mountain Rest, South Carolina, King Creek Falls is a towering waterfall that stands at nearly 70 feet tall. You have to experience this one in person to truly appreciate its size!
Beech Bottom Falls
Distance: Approx. 1 mile one way​
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Beech Bottom Falls is a gorgeous cascade that sits just miles from Sassafras Mountain, the tallest point in South Carolina. This one is perfect for a short stroll in the woods with a beautiful view, y'all!
Lee Falls
Distance: 1.5 miles one way
Lee Falls is otherworldly. This incredible waterfall is located near Tamassee, South Carolina, and features a lush, green backdrop to a particularly sparkling falls. This one looks like it's straight out of a tropical jungle!
Oconee Station Falls
Distance: 0.8 miles one way
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A moderately flat and relatively short trail will lead you to Station Cove (or Oconee Station) Falls. This waterfall is a great one to bring your kids or furry friends to!
Rainbow Falls
Distance: 2.2 miles one way
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Located in the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Region in the mountains of South Carolina, Rainbow Falls is a beautiful cascade that can be accessed through Jones Gap State Park.
Opossum Creek Falls
Distance: 2 miles one way​
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Opossum Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Long Creek, South Carolina. The challenging hike that leads you to this falls offers some beautiful views of the Chattooga River along the way.
Reedy Branch Falls
Distance: 0.5 miles one way
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Reedy Branch Falls is a kid and dog friendly waterfall located near Long Creek, South Carolina. While you're visiting this pretty falls, be sure to check out nearby Chattooga Belle Farm for some gorgeous mountain views!
Riley Moore Falls
Distance: Approx. 1 mile one way​
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Riley Moore Falls is a unique waterfall that is wider than it is tall. Located near Westminster, South Carolina, this waterfall offers a great area for swimming in the warmer months.
Spoonauger Falls
Distance: 0.3 miles one way
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Just a short walk from the Burrells Ford Campground along the Chattooga River, Spoonauger Falls features a unique, stair-step shape. It is also very close to King Creek Falls, so they are both easily doable in one day!
Yellow Branch Falls
Distance: 1.5 miles one way​
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Located near Walhalla, South Carolina in the Sumter National Forest, Yellow Branch Falls is an absolutely gorgeous waterfall that can be reached via a moderate hike.
High Falls (DuPont State Forest)
Distance: Approx. 1 mile one way​
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High Falls is one of many beautiful waterfalls in Dupont State Forest near Brevard, NC. This massive cascade has a deafening roar that's both powerful and awe inspiring.
Triple Falls
Distance: Approx. 0.8 miles one way​
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Located in Dupont State Forest, Triple Falls is a great waterfall with multiple vantage points. Trust me, y'all, she looks good from every angle!
