Summer – Blue Ridge Mountain Life

Highway 64 NC Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive

Larry Deane — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 05:35:00 +0000

The North Carolina Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive winds 98 miles through Western North Carolina, and received its name from the more than 200 waterfalls along the route.

The Waterfall Byway follows Highway 64 from Rosman, NC to Murphy, NC, and takes you through Transylvania County, more commonly called "The Land of Waterfalls".

The full drive takes approximately 3.5 hours.

Table of Contents

Highway 64 Map - Waterfalls Byway Map

Highway 64 Scenic Drive - Walkthrough

Rosman NC - Official Starting point

Toxaway Falls and Lake Toxaway

Gorges State Park and Whitewater Falls NC

Cashiers NC

Highlands NC

Lake Sequoyah and Sequoyah Falls

Bridal Veil Falls Highlands NC

Dry Falls

Bust Your Butt Falls (Quarry Falls)

Cullasaja Gorge and Callasaja Falls

Gneiss NC

Franklin NC

Franklin to Cartoogechaye Township

Hayesville NC

Murphy NC

Tips for traveling the Highway 64 Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive

Highway 64 Map - Waterfalls Byway Map

Highway 64 Scenic Drive - Walkthrough

Hwy 64, The NC Waterfall Byway begins at the intersection of North Carolina 215 (part of the Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway) and Highway 64, just outside of Rosman, NC. The drive along Highway 64 provides scenic views, waterfalls, and visits to some popular and unique small towns in Western NC. Be sure to take your time, and enjoy all the wonderful things this drive offers.

The views along this scenic byway are fantastic during the Fall Color season.

Here's the full walkthrough of the Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive along North Carolina's famous Highway 64:

Rosman NC - Official Starting point

You drive along Highway 64 NC begins in the small mountain town of Rosman NC, where you'll pick up Highway 64 and head west. You'll soon cross the famous French Broad River that goes through Asheville NC and Biltmore Estate.

We begin this drive in Brevard NC, but the official beginning isn't until Rosman NC. Brevard is just an easier starting point for us from Waynesville NC and for those starting from Asheville NC.

Toxaway Falls and Lake Toxaway

After about Go 7 miles, you'll cross the Toxaway River and the first waterfall, Toxaway Falls. The 150' tall Toxaway Falls will be on your left under the bridge, and Lake Toxaway on your right.

For a better view of Toxaway Falls, there are pull overs on the right side of the road heading west on hwy 64. You can park here, and carefully cross the road to see the falls. The view is Gorges State Park, home to many other waterfalls including Rainbow and Turtleback Falls.

Gorges State Park and Whitewater Falls NC

Three miles past Toxaway Falls is the small resort town of Sapphire NC. For a fun side excursion, head south on Highway 281 to Gorges State Park where you can hike to Rainbow and Turtleback Falls. Drive a little further down Highway 281 for Whitewater Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi.

Cashiers NC

Cashiers, NC is about 10 miles west of Toxaway Falls on Highway 64 West. Cashiers is a great small mountain town to stop, take a break, and explore.. Pronounced "Cashers" by locals, Cashiers is one of the oldest resort towns in Western North Carolina.

Highlands NC

From Cashiers, continue West along Highway 64 for 12 very curvy miles to Highlands, NC. Highlands is the highest incorporated community on the East Coast, at 4,118 feet in elevation. Highlands is a neat town, plan to spend some time here shopping and looking around.

Lake Sequoyah and Sequoyah Falls

Continue West on Highway 64, and cross Lake Sequoyah on the outskirts of Highlands and see Sequoyah Falls, the waterfall caused by the Dam. If you are travelling east into Highlands on 64, you'll see a gravel parking area on your right just before the dam and falls. You can park here to view the falls.

There is a small scramble trail down to the bottom as well. Just be careful, as there is another waterfall below this one, and a slip could send you down over it!

While it doesn't sound like much, it's a really pretty waterfall, even if it's not natural.

Bridal Veil Falls Highlands NC

Continue on Highway 64 West for two more miles to the popular Bridal Veil Falls, a 120 foot tall and roadside waterfall. Pull over, and walk under the falls for a refreshing natural shower.

In the past you could drive under this waterfall, but it is now closed to cars and motorcycles because of storm damage.

Dry Falls

A little further down, you'll pass by Dry Falls, one of the most popular and beautiful waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dry Falls has ample parking, bathrooms, and a handicap friendly upper viewing platform.

Be aware that you have to pay to park at Dry Falls now. The fee is $3.00/vehicle.

If you walk down to Dry Falls along the short paved trail, you can walk behind the waterfall. Dry Falls is named for the ability to walk behind it and remain dry ... well, mostly.

Bust Your Butt Falls (Quarry Falls)

Bust Your Butt Falls, formally known as Quarry Falls, is a waterfall and a very popular swimming hole on the Cullasaja River near Highlands, North Carolina. You'll reach Bust Your Butt Falls about 6.5 miles after leaving Highlands NC and heading west on Highway 64.

The falls are a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and cliff jumping. There are several pull-offs along the highway where you can park and access the falls.

Cullasaja Gorge and Callasaja Falls

Continue West on Highway 64. Six miles past Dry Falls, you'll enter Cullasaja Gorge. The road here will narrow significantly, and cling to steep cliffs that form the gorge. This portion of the road is an "adventurous" mountain drive.

Four miles from Dry Falls is Cullasaja Falls, which is viewable from the narrow parking area. The waterfall drops 310 feet into the gorge. While viewing the falls, watch for Falcons that inhabit this area.

Gneiss NC

The community of Gneiss is 2 miles past Cullasaja Falls. Gneiss is known for the treaty council held here between Sir Alexander Cuming and the Cherokee Indians in 1730.

Franklin NC

Asheville NC Travel GuideMany visitors end their drive on the Hwy 64 Scenic Byway in the town of Franklin, NC, because of the number of options available here to loop back to their starting point. But you can continue down Highway 64 to Murphy, NC.

Franklin NC is a charming town in the southwestern part of the state. Franklin offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and a rich cultural heritage. There are lots of restaurant options, shopping, and outdoor activities. The Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum is a must-visit for those interested in geology and gemology.

Our friends at Nurture & Nature Glamping are also here if you're looking for a cool place to stay while visiting.

Franklin to Cartoogechaye Township

Take U.S. 64 West/U.S. 23/441 South for 7.5 miles to Cartoogechaye, then another 4 miles to Winding Stair Gap, one of the earliest western passages along the famous Appalachian Trail.

Hayesville NC

The next 10 miles will take you along the ridgelines of the Chunky Gal Mountains. There are many scenic views and overlooks here.

Four miles east of Hayesville, you'll pass Lake Chatuge, and TDA lake, that is now part of the Hiawassee River. Hayesville contains Fort Hembree, a gathering place for Cherokee Indians, before they were forced to leave for Oklahoma along the "Trail of Tears".

Murphy NC

Murphy, North Carolina, is a picturesque town nestled in the western part of the state. Murphy has a wonderful downtown to explore, and was the southern terminus for the Murphy Branch of the Southern Railroad that begins in Asheville, NC.

Murphy offers residents and visitors a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community. For those seeking entertainment and excitement, Murphy is home to Harrah's Cherokee Valley River Casino. The casino offers a variety of gaming options, live entertainment, and dining experiences.

Waterfalls near Murphy NC include: Leatherwood Falls, Hemlock Falls, Shoal Creek Falls and Bald River Falls.

Find more North Carolina Scenic Byways in the NC DOT Scenic Byway Guide.

Tips for traveling the Highway 64 Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive

Driving the Highway 64 Waterfall Byway Scenic Drive can be a very memorable experience, showcasing the beauty of North Carolina's waterfalls and landscapes. The byway is really a great scenic drive, and one of our favorites that we have done many times.

While on our adventures, we've picked up a few tips that will help your drive be more enjoyable for you:

Allow Ample Time - The scenic drive offers many opportunities for sightseeing and exploring. Plan for extra time to fully enjoy each waterfall, take photos, explore the small towns and all they offer, and immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery and surrounding mountains.
Plan Your Route - Before setting off, familiarize yourself with the route and identify the waterfalls you would like to visit. Make a list of the waterfalls and towns you don't want to miss and plan accordingly.
Drive Safely - The scenic drive includes winding roads and varying terrains. Observe posted speed limits, and drive cautiously, especially around curves and steep sections. Highway 64 has many of these. Be mindful of other vehicles, pedestrians, and wildlife along the route.
Bring a Map or GPS - While cell phone reception may be limited in some areas, it is recommended to have a physical map or a GPS device as a backup. This will help you navigate the route and ensure you don't miss any turnoffs or attractions. Our experience is that cell service is pretty good, but you just never know in the mountains.
Pack Essentials - Bring essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes. Some waterfalls may require short hikes, so be prepared with appropriate footwear, attire and extra water.
Respect Nature and Follow Rules - When visiting waterfalls, be respectful of the environment and follow any posted rules or regulations. Stay on designated paths, avoid littering, and leave no trace behind.
Capture Memories - The waterfalls along the scenic drive provide excellent photo opportunities. Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of the cascades and surrounding landscapes. Remember to use caution when taking photos near waterfalls and cliffs.

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Lower Falls Graveyard Fields

Larry Deane — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 12:06:44 +0000

Lower Falls Graveyard Fields is a gorgeous waterfall and swimming hole, that is accessible by a short and moderate .3 mile hike down to the falls. This waterfall is also visible from a small pull over on the Blue Ridge Parkway, just past MP418.8.

Location: Milepost 418.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC
Roundtrip Distance:0.6 Miles
Handicap/Disability Accessible:Yes, from the Parkway, but the hike to the base of the falls is not handicap accessible.
Difficulty: Moderate, due to uphill climb on the way back and stairs
Features:Waterfall, Swimming Hole, Jump off rock, unique plant life, dense rhododendron thicket, gorgeous fall colors
Directions:Located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 418.8 between Asheville and Waynesville NC. There is a large parking lot for the area and a bathroom building. It will be hard to miss.
Recommended Gear: Good hiking boots or shoes, Daypack, Dayhiker First Aid Kit, Sunscreen, [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”hiking rain poncho” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]hiking rain ponchos[/easyazon_link], some snacks, plenty of water and be sure to bring a bathing suit if you think you might want to swim.
Map:

Lower Falls Graveyard Fields Trail

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Lower Falls (also called Second Falls) is one of two large waterfalls located in the Graveyard Fields area. Of the two, Lower Falls is the easiest to access from the main parking lot, and the shorter hike. Lower Falls also has a fairly large and deep pool of water below it, making it a very popular summer swimming hole.

Much of the trail down to Lower Graveyard Falls is now either pavement or wooden decking. The first part of the trail down from the parking lot is paved, and crosses through a forest of dense Rhododendron. In late April and May, the the trail is surrounded by the purple flowers.

After exiting the canopy of Rhodos, you’ll walk down a short set of wooden stairs to a bridge that crosses Yellow Prong, the creek that is the water source for both upper and lower falls, and Skinny Dip Falls as well.

To reach the falls, continue across the bridge to yellow prong, and walk along the wooden deck walkway on the other side. You’ll see a dirt trail that leads to the left, this takes you to Upper Falls about 1.5 miles away. To reach Lower Falls continue straight.

After crossing a small creek, the wooden decking will stop, and you’ll be hiking on dirt again. You’ll pass a couple of access trails to the left that lead to the Mountains to Sea Trail. You’ll also pass a few informal trails to the right that take you down to Yellow Prong and above Lower Falls. – We do not recommend doing this, as it’s dangerous.

Lower Falls

Soon you’ll reach a long set of wooden stairs heading down. Take these, you should hear Lower Falls at this point, and reach it at the bottom of the stairs.

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The area just below the falls is where people often enjoy a good swim. The water is deep enough to allow for jumping off the rocks into the water. There are also many shallow areas where younger and smaller children can safely wade and play in the water. We often bring our children here to swim, as do many others. This is a very busy and active area in Graveyard Fields as you can see by the photos taken on Labor Day in 2014.

Many people like to climb up on the actually falls and sit or jump into the water. This is not something we would recommend you do. The rocks can be very slick. Just yesterday we watched a man slip, and scratch his back up pretty bad. So be careful!

Here is the amazing view you’ll see as you come off the stairs and see the falls for the first time.

Lower Falls from the Parkway

For those that aren’t able to hike, if you don’t have time to hike, or just want a different view of the Falls, Lower Falls is viewable from the Parkway and Handicap Accessible from your car and roadside pullover.

If you are driving towards Asheville on the Parkway, pass the main Graveyard fields parking lot. Just a little past the parking lot, you’ll see a wooden guardrail to your left, and a gravel/grass pull over to your right. Lower Falls is viewable from the guardrail. Just be very careful, as there is a turn just past this, and cars come by fast.

This location makes for an outstanding photo opportunity, especially during the fall, as seen in this photo we took a few years ago:

Lower Falls from the Parkway in the Fall

Lower Falls Video:

Join us as we hike down to Lower Falls

Here’s another video of Second Falls we took in the Fall of 2011:

Lower Falls Photo Gallery

We visited Graveyard Fields often, especially in the summer to let our kids swim and play in the water. As a result, we’ve taken numerous pictures of the area and falls. Here is a gallery of our photos for you to enjoy.

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Sunburst Swimming Hole

Larry Deane — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 14:44:52 +0000

Sunburst Swimming Hole is a popular Swimming Hole, located near Bethal, NC and just below Cold Mountain along Highway 215 in Western NC. The Swimming hole is easily accessed and has a small “beach like” area. Sunburst is very popular with both local and tourists during the summer months.

Sunburst Swimming Hole

Sunburst Swimming hole is a natural mountain water swimming hole, so the water is crisp, clear, fresh and cold. Sunburst has two primary swimming areas.

One has a large rock that you can jump off and plunge into the deep cool waters. There is even a rope here you can use.
The second area is more beach like, with a shallows that slowly transitions into deeper waters for swimming.

The shoreline for Sunburst Swimming Hole is unique as well, as it has a very beach like feel to it, and makes for a great place to spread out a blanket, take in some sunshine or even have a picnic.

During the summer months, Sunburst is a very popular location for both local families and vacationers to hang out and swim. On a typical weekend from June – August, you’ll often find Sunburst very busy and parking on the roadside parking lot can be a challenge. If all of the parking is full, drive down to Forest Srv. Rd. and park on the side there.

Tips when visiting:

Here’s a few tips to make you visit to Sunburst Swimming Hole more enjoyable:

We recommend getting there early, or arriving later in the afternoon/evening to avoid the crowds and parking issues.
There are no restroom facilities here, but there Sunburst campground is just down the road (south of the swimming hole). The campground has full flush toilets, and often has portajohns as well. You can use these.
Bring some chairs and/or a blanket – There aren’t many rocks to sit on, so chairs and/or a blanket will come in really handy.
Bring a cooler with water and drinks. If you think you’ll get hungry, bring some food too – There aren’t really any stores nearby.
Dogs are allowed, but need to be on a leash per national forest rules.

Directions:

Sunburst swimming hole is located just off Highway 215 near Bethel NC. From the Parkway, take Highway 215 north for about 8 miles. Just before the bridge you’ll see the swimming hole parking area on your right.

Map:

The map below is to Sunburst Campground. The actual Sunburst swimming hole is north of here, just past Forest Srv. Rd. There is roadside parking on the right just before the bridge over Right Hand Prong if you are coming from the The Blue Ridge Parkway.

Photo Gallery

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NC Swimming Holes – Our Top 10 Picks

Larry Deane — Wed, 29 Apr 2015 11:51:52 +0000

Looking for beautiful, fun, and cool NC swimming holes in the Blue Ridge Mountains? With all the great waterfalls, rivers, and creeks, there are tons of places to swim. But 10 NC swimming holes stand out as some of the best that the Blue Ridge Mountains offer.

These swimming holes are easy to access, beautiful to see, and provide a fun way to cool off during the hot summer months.

Updated: 1/30/2025 - Updated with Hurricane Helene closures and added Bust Your Butt Falls

Table of Contents

Top NC Swimming Holes - Our Personal Picks

Sliding Rock

Bust Your Butt Falls - Highlands, NC

Graveyard Fields - Lower Falls

Skinny Dip Falls

Midnight Hole

Looking Glass Falls

Deep Creek Tubing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Sunburst Swimming Hole

Turtleback Falls

Hooker Falls - Dupont State Park

Secret Falls - Highlands NC

Top NC Swimming Holes - Our Personal Picks

We're NC mountain locals,and have been visiting waterfalls and local swimming holes as a family for over 16 years. While our kids are all grown up now, we had a blast hanging out on hot summer days at these wonderful swimming holes.

While there are certainly many more, these are our top picks for the very best NC swimming holes.

Sliding Rock

Hurricane Helene Impact: Currently closed because of damage

One of the most popular natural water slides in the US and definitely the most popular in North Carolina is Sliding Rock.

Near Brevard NC, in Pisgah National Forest, Sliding Rock has been a popular swimming and sliding destination for many years.

You'll slide down a 60 foot long smooth rock waterfall and plunge into a deep pool of cool, but refreshing water.

Sliding Rock has a large parking area, bathrooms, and multiple observation areas. During prime summer months, life guards are also on duty.

Sliding rock is a brief walk from the main parking lot, and easily accessible. There is a small fee during the summer.

See more photos and get more information in our complete Sliding Rock Guide.

Bust Your Butt Falls - Highlands, NC

Located right next to Highway 64 near Highlands, NC, Bust Your Butt Falls is a very popular summer swimming hole and waterfall.

The waterfall is a gently cascading fall, with a significant amount of water, allowing swimmers to not only swim in the large and deep pool at the bottom, but you can also slide down the waterfall itself.

The falls are roadside, and there is a medium-sized parking area that is roadside you can use. Additional parking is located at a couple of locations on the other side of Highway 64 as well.

There are several trails that lead down to the base of the falls and to the area above the falls. It's a beautiful area, and a really nice swimming hole.

Graveyard Fields - Lower Falls

One of our favorite NC swimming holes is Lower Falls in Graveyard fields.

Lower Falls (or second falls) is a simply gorgeous water fall with a swimming hole below it. The swimming area is surrounded by many large rocks that are ideal for jumping off and into the crisp and cool water.

Graveyard Fields is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, east of Waynesville NC and south of Asheville NC.

Lower Falls is a moderate 1-mile hike from the parking lot. Even if you don't plan to swim, Graveyard fields and specifically Lower Falls is a wonderful destination to see and enjoy.

See lots of photos and learn more about Graveyard field and Lower Falls in our Lower Falls and Graveyard Fields Guide.

Skinny Dip Falls

Update: We're leaving this one on our list, but the Skinny Dip Falls swimming hole, as most knew it, is gone. There is still a small waterfall, and few pools here, but there are better swimming hole options in the area.

Skinny Dip Falls suffered massive damage because of the severe flooding from Tropical Storm Fred in 2021.

See more photos and get all the details on the damage to Skinny Dip in our Skinny Dip Falls Guide. You can also watch our video:

Midnight Hole

Hurricane Helene Impact: The entire Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Midnight Hole is currently closed because of damage

Another very popular swimming hole with a very tall "jump off rock" is Midnight Hole, in the Big Creek Section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Midnight Hole has a small beach area that is ideal for young kids to play in, deeper water for older kids, and two enormous boulders that older children, teens and even adults can jump down from.

Midnight Hole is a very popular destination in the summer. On a typical weekend, there are usually 40-50 people swimming and jumping from the rocks. Just be careful. The rocks and the climb up to them can be very slick. There are no lifeguards on duty and you are a long way from any medical facilities.

While you're there, walk the extra 1/2 mile on up Big Creek trail to Mouse Creek Falls, a small but beautiful waterfall.

See our guide to Midnight Hole for more details

Looking Glass Falls

Probably one of the most famous waterfalls in Western North Carolina is Looking Glass Falls.

Looking Glass Falls is a popular tourist stop because it's a stunning waterfall, that is both easy to access and visible from the roadside. This is a great waterfall to visit for those with accessibility needs.

A very short paved walkway from the parking area allows easy access to the falls. Looking Glass Falls is not only a popular waterfall, but the area below the falls is also a popular NC swimming hole for kids and adults.

The area below Looking Glass falls isn't really deep, so you'll be wading more than swimming, but either way, spending time in the water below the 60 foot tall rushing waterfall is an experience to enjoy and remember.

See our Looking Glass Falls Guide for more information: Looking Glass Falls Guide.

Deep Creek Tubing in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hands down, our favorite family summer water destination is Deep Creek, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Located just outside Bryson City NC, Deep Creek offers waterfalls, many wading areas, wonderful trails, and best of all, one of the best water tubing spots in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If our kids had their choice, this is where we would spend every weekend during the summer months.

Prior to entering the park, you can rent tubes from several vendors. Once there, you can enter the creek and start tubing anywhere.

People looking for a more relaxed tubing experience should enter the Deep Creek just past the bridge that crosses the creek.

Those looking for a more "white water" experience hike up a little further to the furthest point where you can begin tubing (just below Indian Creek Falls).

We highly recommend tubing in Deep Creek. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

See photos and get lots of tips for Tubing in Deep Creek in our complete Deep Creek Tubing Guide.

Sunburst Swimming Hole

Sunburst is a popular family swimming hole for locals and tourists near Bethel NC in Pisgah National Forest. This popular NC swimming hole has a rope, jumping rock, a small beach area, and lots of wading areas for younger and smaller children. It's one of the many swimming holes near Waynesville NC.

Located on Highway 215, at the bridge that crosses the Pigeon River and just past the Sunburst camping area. Parking is available alongside Highway 215. It will be hard to miss, especially on weekends in the summer.

See our complete Sunburst Swimming Hole Guide for more information

Turtleback Falls

Turtleback Falls is one of three waterfalls you can see along a stretch of the Horsepasture River in Nantahala National Forest. Turtleback Falls is the second falls and is a popular swimming spot and water slide. The falls are roughly a 1.5 mile hike and 3 mile round-trip.

Turtleback falls is really only recommended for teens and adults that are strong swimmers. If water is flowing heavily over Turtleback falls, you'll want to avoid swimming, as currents can carry you too far downstream and over the 150 foot tall Rainbow Falls down river.

Even at low water levels, the currents here can be strong, so be smart and know your limits. If you're going to attempt sliding down, we recommend you bring a pair of good quality water shoes to keep you from slipping.

Check out our complete Turtleback Falls Guide for more information

Hooker Falls - Dupont State Park

Hooker Falls is the fourth waterfall along Little River, which passes through Dupont State Park near Brevard NC.

The pool below the 11' tall Hooker Falls has become a popular swimming hole due to its ease of accessible and because of the calm waters below the falls.

From the Hooker falls parking lot, it's only a short 1/4 mile hike along a gravel road to the falls. The calm waters at the base of the falls make this a safe and fun swimming hole that is popular with families.

Hooker Falls is also one of the most popular swimming holes in Western NC, so be prepared for crowds during the summer months.

While tempting, we do not recommend walking on top of the falls or jumping off the falls. People have been injured here due to the slick rocks above.

See our Hooker Falls guide for more information

Secret Falls - Highlands NC

Secret Falls

As the name implies, this is not a well-known waterfall and swimming hole, and is very secluded. As a result, few people know about it offering more of a private swimming hole that is great for families.

Secret Falls is a 50' tall waterfall, on Big Creek near Highlands NC and part of the Nantahala National Forest.

The hike to the falls is a 1-mile round trip and considered easy to moderate. The trails are well maintained and there is access to the top of the falls, and the swimming hole at the bottom.

The post NC Swimming Holes – Our Top 10 Picks appeared first on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.

Sliding Rock NC

Larry Deane — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 01:25:47 +0000

Looking for some summer water fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina? Look no further than Sliding Rock NC, a natural water slide that’s been a favorite for families, friends, and thrill-seekers for generations.

Located in the heart of Pisgah National Forest, Sliding Rock is a one-of-a-kind experience where you can slide down a smooth, 60-foot rock face into a refreshing, crisp, and cool pool of mountain water.

For beating the heat, family bonding, or a natural water park adventure, Sliding Rock is perfect. This iconic destination has drawn visitors for decades, offering a unique blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and fun that keeps people coming back year after year.

In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit—from what to bring and when to go, to insider tips for an unforgettable day at Sliding Rock. We're locals, and visit often.

So grab your swimsuit and let’s dive into one of the Blue Ridge Mountains’ most beloved summer spots!

Updated: 3/24/2025 - Reformatted and additional information added on 2025 opening. Information on damage from Hurricane Helene added and along with current photos.

Need to Know
Location: On Highway 276, 8 miles outside of Brevard NC
Accessible: Yes to the viewing area, but not to the bottom or top of the falls themselves
Dog Friendly: Yes, but must be on a leash
Features: Waterfall, swimming, restrooms and a large parking lot.
Directions: Take US 276 North from Brevard NC for eight miles. Or take U.S. 276 South from the Blue Ridge Parkway for about 7 miles. There will be a sign at the entrance.
Recommended Gear: Camera, water, water shoes, sunscreen and towels, change of clothes. When sliding down the rocks, it can very quickly wear out a bathing suit. We recommend bringing cut off blue jeans to wear over your bathing suit, or something else made of thick material.

Table of Contents

Need to Know

2025 Season

After Hurricane Helene

Our 2024 Video

All about Sliding Rock NC

Where should you slide?

In Case of Emergency

Tips for visiting

Nearby Locations to visit

Our Photos

2025 Season

Sliding Rock will reopen for the 2025 season on May 23rd and run through Labor Day on September 1st. The rock will be open from 9am - 6pm 7-days a week. Admission for 2025 will be $5/person.

The Sliding Rock area is open year round, however life guards are bathroom facilities are only open during the official season. Those wishing to slide down outside of the open season do so at their own risk.

After Hurricane Helene

Sliding Rock sustained damage and debris from the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene at the end of September 2024. The massive amount of water moved rocks and changed the pool at the base of the waterfall.

Debris came over sliding rock and settled in and around the pool at the bottom. The park service has cleaned that up.

We visited Sliding Rock on 2/5/2025; the gates were open and took these photos which show the current state of Sliding Rock post Hurricane Helene:

Our 2024 Video

Here's our YouTube we took during the summer of 2024 when visited to Sliding Rock on a busy weekday. The video even shows someone sliding down holding our GoPro!

All about Sliding Rock NC

Sliding Rock is a natural 60' water slide that you can slide down and then plunge into a deep pool of water at the bottom. The pool at the bottom is 8 foot deep, so you'll want to know how to swim.

During busy times, the line to slide extends the entire length of the 60' boulder, along the metal fence shown in the photo above.

People wait their turn to get into their favorite spot and then slide through the 50-60 degree water. The water is cold, but refreshing. Over 11,000 gallons of water flow over sliding rock each minute to propel you down the slide and into the pool.

Sliding Rock is incredibly popular, and can often be very busy during the summer months, especially on weekends.

Sliding Rock NC is open year round during daylight hours, and this includes during the offseason and winter. You can slide during the off-season times, but the water is colder than usual and there are no lifeguards or staff on duty.

Lifeguards are on duty during peak season from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. The cost to enter when lifeguards are on duty is $5/person. Children under 6 years of age are free. Visiting during off hours is free, however there are no lifeguards or safety staff.

There are full restrooms and changing facilities at Sliding Rock. For food, you'll need to drive to Brevard, NC were there are plenty of places to eat. The restrooms do close in the evenings when the lifeguards leave.

Plunge pool at the bottom, about 8 foot deep

Where should you slide?

There are three main sliding paths from the center starting point at the top.

The left side is the slowest, and is best for those sliding for the first few times, and that have little experience

The middle track, straight down, is faster, but still only a medium speed.

The right side, where the water mainly flows, is the fastest and best for those with more experience.

In Case of Emergency

In the event of an emergency or injury, you'll want to call 911 if possible. The Transylvania County Sheriffs Dept is reachable at: 828-884-3168

Your Physical location: Sliding Rock Recreation Center, 7851 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

Transylvania Regional Hospital: 260 Hospital Drive, Brevard NC 28712 - 828-213-1111

Tips for visiting

Here are a few tips to help make your visit to Sliding Rock North Carolina more enjoyable!

The pool at the bottom is 8 foot deep, so you need to know how to swim. Children under 7 must slide with an adult.
The water is cold. Water temperatures average around 50 degrees year round. Bring a towel to stay warm, and we recommend bringing a change of clothing.
No floatation devices (like tubes, floaties or noodles) are allowed. Only life jackets are permitted.
Wear Blue Jean shorts. Bathing suits will work, but they can get worn through pretty quickly when sliding down the rock. Water shoes are also highly recommended, as the rocks can be slick.
Arrive Early - During the prime time hours of summer, the parking area can often fill up. To avoid the crowd, arrive before 11am or after 4pm.
No alcohol or picnicking is allowed.
Life guards are on duty during the peak summer months, from 9am - 6pm

Nearby Locations to visit

Looking Glass Falls

Cove Creek Falls NC

Moore Cove Falls NC

Our Photos

Here are some photos of a family enjoying the crisp and cool waters of Sliding Rock, North Carolina on a late summer weekday, before all the visitors arrived.

The post Sliding Rock NC appeared first on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.

Deep Creek Tubing

Larry Deane — Tue, 08 Jul 2014 14:36:37 +0000

At the end of June, we decided to go hiking on Deep Creek loop trail due to the great trails, and the ability to see three different waterfalls. We loved the hike and the waterfalls, but what caught our attention the most was all of the people having a great time tubing down Deep Creek. We left vowing to come back and try out the tubing sometime soon.

This past Sunday, during 4th of July weekend, all of our kids where home, nobody was scheduled to work, and with no plans, we decided to head out as a family and try out Deep Creek Tubing. Tubing at Deep Creek turned out to be one of the most fun things we’ve done since moving to the Blue Ridge 6 years ago.

Read on for all the details, photos, tips, cost and more!

Deep Creek Tubing

The Deep Creek area of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located just north of Bryson City, and easy to get to. I’ve included full directions at the bottom of this article. Deep Creek has:

a Campground
a Picnic area
Picnic shelters
Miles of hiking trails
3 large and beautiful waterfalls (2 very close to the parking lot)
and Tubing

Deep Creek Trail runs along side Deep Creek for miles. The parts of Deep Creek near the Camping and Picnic areas is perfect for tubing, and as a result one of the most popular destinations for families in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

You’ll follow the main entrance road past the picnic area, and to the end, where the Deep Creek trail head begins. There is a parking lot just to the left that is often full during the summer. Missing this area will be difficult, as you’ll see tons of people in bathing suits carrying brightly colored tubes up the trail.

Most people hike up Deep Creek Trail about a mile to the second bridge where Indian Creek trail branches to the right. There will be signs here saying “No Tubing beyond this point”. This is due to the creek getting to rocky and dangerous for safe tubing. Just before the signs and the bridge, there will be paths down to the left that provide access to the creek and a place to get on. Again, it will be hard to miss, just follow the people.

This particular access point is a great spot for older kids and adults, but I wouldn’t personally recommend it if you are tubing with smaller children. Instead, I would begin tubing just past the first bridge. The area from the first bridge to the second is a lot of fun, and the most exciting, but it has some fairly strong flowing waterfalls that can and will tip you over.

Our first time down, we started from the second bridge and went all the way down with our 8 year old daughter. I tipped over once, but was able to keep her upright, but it was difficult going, and on subsequent runs, her and I waited at the first bridge for the rest of our crew, and joined them there.

Toms Branch Falls, near Deep Creek Trail head.

For most people though, tubing all the way from the second bridge at Indian Creek Falls, down to the Toms Branch Falls is really fun, incredibly beautiful, and very refreshing on a hot summer day. Tubing this whole stretch takes about 20-30 minutes, and the walk back up isn’t too bad as it’s mostly flat.

You can tube down past Toms Branch Falls, but Deep Creek gets a bit shallow, and we found ourselves getting stuck on rocks often.

What you can expect is a mix of very slow relaxing areas, and areas of fairly fast moving but small waterfalls. I would say the biggest is maybe 3 feet tall. you will get wet and sometimes soaked, especially if you tip over. The water when we went was very cool, but refreshing, especially after hiking up the trail for a mile or so.

As you tube down, there are a few very calm areas of the creek that make for great spots to just stop, float and enjoy the sites and sounds. I literally could have just sat there and floated around watching all the people go by.

The tubes themselves are strong, but difficult to maneuver, which adds to the fun and adventure. Expect to bump people too, which is a fun way to socialize and get to know people. We found ourselves running along with a really nice family a few times in a row.

I don’t want to scare you, because overall tubing down Deep Creek is fairly safe, but not without a little danger. You are tubing down a natural creek, full of rocks in rushing water. If you go under, you can get injured. I bumped my head one time when I flipped, and got some water up my nose, but nothing major. Just be smart, and careful and you’ll be fine. If you have small children tubing with you say 10 years or younger, I would recommend keeping them with someone that is a strong swimmer or putting a life vest on them.

Tubing Tips

While we’re far from experts, you do learn a few tips pretty quick that help to make your experience more enjoyable:

The deepest areas of Deep Creek tend to be on the left side (side furthest from the trail). Staying in deeper water, keeps you from getting stuck on rocks or bottoming out.
Try to stay in the main current, and pay attention to the strongest current areas and target them with your tube. This will again keep you from getting stuck on rocks and also keep you from getting caught up in calmer areas of water which are a bit difficult to get out of sometimes due to them swirling.
The rocks are sometimes difficult to see, but when you do see them and can’t avoid going over them, lean back a little or try to pull up the edge of the tube that will hit the rock first. This will allow water to go in-between your tube and the rock and often let you flow right over it. I would also suggest you lift your posterior as well, to avoid getting bruises where you don’t want bruises Fortunately the rocks in the water are very well rounded and smooth due to years of rushing water.
Try to remain a reasonable distance from other tubers. This will help keep you on track, and also avoid both of you getting stuck in between rocks.

There are no bathrooms near the trail entrance or trail parking lot. The closest bathrooms are in the picnic area loop. They also have changing facilities. I’d recommend making a stop there on your way in.

There are some pretty dense woods next to the parking lot and along side the trail and creek. We saw many people, especially with young kids venturing in for obvious reasons.

What to bring with you

While we brought most of what we needed, we did learn a few things and the next time we visit we’ll bring a few extra items. Here’s the item we would recommend bringing with you:

[easyazon_link asin=”B000F6UJ9G” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Cooler[/easyazon_link] with waters (or whatever your preferred beverage is). You do a good bit of walking, and tubing, while relaxing, does involve a bit of exercise.
Food – There aren’t really too many restaurants near by, and you’ll have tubes with you. We ate lunch at home, and just brought snacks. I think next time though, we’ll arrive a bit earlier, and plan to pack some sandwiches.
[easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”water shoes” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]Water shoes[/easyazon_link] – You’ll thank me for this later, but pick up some good water shoes. You won’t want to carry your shoes in the tube, and you won’t want to walk up Deep Creek Trail barefoot. Also, the bottom of Deep Creek is rocky, and slick. Water shoes make all the difference.
Bathing Suits/Change of clothes – The water is pretty cool, so I wouldn’t recommend wearing normal clothes. Wear a bathing suit. I would also recommend that both men and women wear [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”quick dry shirt” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]quick dry shirts[/easyazon_link]. This will keep the tubes from irritating/scratching your skin. Ladies, if you’re a bit modest, you might want to wear some [easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”bathing suit shorts” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]bathing suit shorts[/easyazon_link] to wear over your bathing suit bottom, as you’ll be spending half your time walking up the trail.
[easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Beach towels” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]Beach towels[/easyazon_link] – We brought a beach towel along for everyone, plus a few extras.
[easyazon_link asin=”B004D3CFZI” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Canoe Paddles[/easyazon_link] – This is one item we didn’t bring on our first trip, but wish we had. Steering your tube is about near impossible with your hands due to the current. A small Ore would have been ideal, and in fact we saw a number of people with these.
[easyazon_link asin=”B00IA9LTTY” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Waterproof Digital Camera[/easyazon_link] – Another item we didn’t have. So we couldn’t take pictures while tubing, and to get pictures I had to walk to the car, get the camera, hike up, then hike back.
[easyazon_link asin=”B000FE9CAK” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Waterproof Cell Phone Case[/easyazon_link] – We left our cells in the car, but if you want your cell phone with you (for video or pictures), get a waterproof case. Don’t think you’ll be able to keep your cell phone dry, you won’t.
[easyazon_link cloaking=”default” keywords=”Sunscreen” localization=”default” locale=”US” nofollow=”default” new_window=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″]Sunscreen[/easyazon_link] – While most of the creek is shaded, there are parts of the trail and creek where you’ll get direct sunlight. If you’re skin is sensitive, we would recommend some sunscreen.
[easyazon_link asin=”B000TMEKDM” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Waterproof Hat[/easyazon_link] – I didn’t think to do this, but wish I had: bring a hat. The top of my head got sunburned, and I have lots of hair.
Cash – Bring cash. Some places take credit cards, but you’re in the remote mountains of Western NC. Many people only take cash. If you forget cash, tree are some ATMs in nearby Bryson City.
[easyazon_link asin=”B004FI325I” locale=”US” new_window=”default” nofollow=”default” tag=”blueridgemountainlife-20″ add_to_cart=”default” cloaking=”default” localization=”default” popups=”default”]Lanyard Keychain Holder[/easyazon_link] – Another item I failed to bring. I tied my key to my bathing suit strings, but having a lanyard would have made things much easier.

Try to keep as much stuff in your car as you can. You won’t want to have to carry it along as you hike up the trail with your tube, and you won’t want to have to worry about losing it while tubing down the creek. If you can’t attach it to you, and can’t waterproof it, don’t bring it.

One final note for you ladies. While there were many young girls and women there in bikinis, I would personally recommend a one piece. With the current and small waterfalls, you stand a very high change of losing your top or bottom in the current if you tip over. We unfortunately saw this happen a few times, resulting in some very red faces.

Tube Rental

You’re probably thinking: Great info, but where do you get the tubes? Good question!

You can bring your own tubes, but most people rent them. These are not your average tubes, and purchasing your own of the same quality is expensive. The tubes you rent are heavy duty, and designed to take the rocky conditions in the creek.

Before entering the park as you wind around Deep Creek Rd, there are numerous places to rent tubes. You’ll see lots of signs – including few with some bad, but hilarious “tube” puns. Some of these places provide tube rental only, while others offer stores, ice cream, clothing, shoes, etc. Generally, the closer you get to the entrance, the more expensive the tube rental becomes. I will say the place right before the entrance is really nice, with lots of different types of tubes, but they aren’t cheap.

With 6 kids, we’re a bit frugal, so we stopped at a place about a mile or so before the park entrance called TubeWorld. You’ll see it on the left, close to road. We would highly recommend renting your tubes from TubeWorld. The cost is $3 per tube all day.

As we pulled up to TubeWorld, we were promptly greeted by a very friendly and helpful gentlemen named JD. JD not only rented us 8 tubes, but managed to also tie all of them up on our Ford Expedition for us. We looked like a tug boat going down the road, but knot tieing and roping job was top notch. JD was a Park Ranger, veteran, and old boy scout (as you can tell by his knot tying skills).

Total cost, $24. If you stop by TubeWorld, make sure you tell them Blue Ridge Mountain Life sent you. Make sure you talk to JD too, just a super nice fella.

A few tips on renting tubes:

Pay attention to the time they need to be back. We saw most places saying 6pm. Tubeworld is open until 7:00pm. The extra hour was really nice.
Pay attention to how the tubes were tied up and together on your vehicle. You’ll need to tie them back on when you’re done. JD did a great job of showing us how to do this.
Make sure all of your tubes are fully inflated.
Drive slow once the the tubes are on your car, you don’t want to lose one.
Replacing a tube costs around $50.00, so don’t lose them or let them out of your site where someone could grab your tube.

Directions to Deep Creek

From the intersection of highway 441 and 19 in Cherokee NC, take Highway 19 south to Bryson City, NC. Turn left onto Everett Street, right onto Depot Street (at The Great Smoky Mountain Railway), and then left onto Deep Creek Rd. Follow the road right into the Park, an follow the signs to Deep Creek Trail.

Wrapping Up

We called it quits around 6:00pm. That gave us time to dry off, change clothes, hit the bathrooms, get the tubes back on the vehicle and return the tubes by 7pm. We stopped in Cherokee on the way home and grabbed some dinner.

If you are from out of town, there are hotels in nearby Bryson City, and Cherokee. There is also a really nice national park campground in Deep Creek that we’re going to try in the future and also a private campground just outside the park.

We had a blast Deep Creek tubing, and our kids are already asking to go back. Definitely one of the top places we’ve been in the area, and one of the most fun family events we’ve done. Highly recommended, especially given the low cost.

Have you been to Deep Creek? Did you tube? Tell us about your visit and/or share your tips in the comments below!

The post Deep Creek Tubing appeared first on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.

Midnight Hole NC – Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Larry Deane — Mon, 29 Jul 2013 04:18:53 +0000

We’ve been visiting Midnight Hole for over 17 years, and its hands-down one of our favorite spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In Big Creek, you'll find Midnight Hole, a deep, crystal-clear pool at the base of a small, powerful six-foot waterfall.

It’s long been a go-to swimming hole for locals, families, and anyone looking to cool off on a warm mountain day. You'll find yourself returning to this spot time and again, be it for a hike or a relaxing time by the water.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about visiting Midnight Hole—including trail details, tips from our many visits, and some important updates about current closures.

9/2/2025 - Updated to reflect our recent visit and hike in August of 2025. Our first visit since Hurricane Helene.

What you need to Know About Midnight Hole NC
Location: Big Creek Area, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Round trip Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Handicap Accessible: No
Dog Friendly: No - Dogs are not allowed
Features: Swimming, jumping, creek-side hiking
Directions: Take I-40 to the Waterville Road Exit (#451). Turn left after crossing the Pigeon River and proceed 2.3 miles to an intersection. Continue straight through, pass the ranger station, and you'll arrive at a large parking area at the road's end. Just before you enter the parking lot, you'll see the Big Creek trail head to your right.
Recommended Gear: Standard Day hiking gear, bathing suit, water shoes, and towels

Table of Contents

Hurricane Helene Impact

Midnight Hole NC

Hiking to Midnight Hole NC

Our Midnight Hole Videos

Things to do at Big Creek and Midnight Hole

Hurricane Helene Impact

In late 2024, Hurricane Helene brought severe flooding and damage to the Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Big Creek Trail and the surrounding area were hit hard—floodwaters washed out a 70-foot steel bridge located about five miles up the trail and caused extensive erosion and trail damage beyond Mouse Creek Falls.

As a result, both Big Creek and Big Creek Trail were closed for several months. The area has since re-opened to visitors, but Big Creek Trail is currently only open to Mouse Creek Falls. The section of trail beyond that point remains closed until further notice because of safety concerns and ongoing repairs.

Midnight Hole itself was also affected by the flooding. While the trail leading to it is open, the powerful floodwaters appear to have altered the area around the swimming hole. During our most recent visit in August 2025, there were 2-3 fallen trees on the beach area (see photo above), the flooding washed away, and much of the rocky beach area. As a result, the beach area is now smaller. The deep swimming area below the falls is still there, but appears to be not as large nor as deep as it once was.

During our visit, a large tree had also fallen across the large rock to the left that people often jumped from.

If you plan to visit, the hike to Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek Falls is still a beautiful and worthwhile adventure—just be aware of the limited trail access and ongoing restoration efforts beyond that point.

Midnight Hole NC

Midnight Hole NC is probably one of the most scenic and beautiful natural swimming holes in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The water is crystal clear, and the waterfall surrounded by huge boulders, makes for a natural place to swim, jump, and cool off in the hot summer. Jumping from the rocks into the pool is a very popular activity for the younger crowd.

Midnight hole is often very busy, especially between 10am and 4-5pm. The water and rocks are full of families, teens and adults. It isn't uncommon for there 50-100 people there on a summer weekend day.

The water is pretty cold, but very crisp and refreshing, especially after the 1.4 mile hike in.

Hiking to Midnight Hole NC

Midnight hole is in the Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, on Big Creek Trail. The trailhead begins on the road, just before the parking area, on the right. You'll pass the trailhead on your way to park.

Come prepared! Be sure to review our Day hiking Essentials before hitting the trail.

Big Creek is often very busy during the summer, and if the main parking area is full, you can drive back down the entry road and park in the horse camp parking area. Just be sure to not block in any of the horse trailers.

There is a trail from the bathroom area to the trailhead. There are also bathrooms in the main parking area.

Big Creek trail up to Midnight hole is an old railroad grade, and not steep, but it is a gradual climb all the way up to Midnight hole, at 1.4 mile in. Along the way, you'll hike creek side to Big Creek, which is gorgeous.

You can't miss Midnight hole, as you'll either hear the people swimming, yelling and having fun.

The trail is also heavily travelled up to midnight hole. You'll likely encounter lots of people and families walking on the trail, either going to or coming back from the falls.

You'll know you're close to Midnight Hole when you cross the wooden bridge. To get to the falls/swimming area, just walk down the narrow path to the left. The trail is rocky, so young children will probably need some help.

Discover More Waterfalls!

See our full guides to more than 40 waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on our Waterfalls Page. Information, Directions, Photos, Video, and more!

Learn More!

Our Midnight Hole Videos

Here is our latest video, recorded in August 2025. The video highlights some of the damage from Hurricane Helene.

Our older videos:

Things to do at Big Creek and Midnight Hole

Next to the parking lot is a really nice picnic area next to Big Creek. This is a great place for families with younger children, as the water is a great depth for wading and splashing.

Midnight hole has more shallow areas as well, but not many. Most of the water areas in Midnight Hole are a 1 -2 feet, minimum and the current is fairly strong, so small children should be watched closely.

Big Creek Trail is an old railroad grade that was used to haul timber and lumber during the logging boom, prior to the area becoming a national park. Horses are allowed on the trail, and while we haven't seen any the times we've been there, I would recommend watching where you step, just in case!

Mouse Creek Falls

If you hike up the trail another 1/2 mile, you'll come to Mouse Creek Falls. The falls are 41 foot high, and just beautiful to see and take pictures of.

The post Midnight Hole NC – Great Smoky Mountain National Park appeared first on Blue Ridge Mountain Life.