Hooker Falls is the first visible waterfall. Standing a 11ft. high, it is an easy hike accessible from a short distance from the main parking area. Water flowing over Hooker Falls passes to Cascade Lake where individuals can swim or bask in the sun along the open shore. A rock wall does exist to separate the entrance to the lake; however, it stands less than a foot high.
Returning to the parking area, you can access Triple Falls and High Falls after crossing the road. I will admit, it can be quite tricky finding the stairs to descend down the other side of the road, and you must climb over the guardrail to access it (but it is there!).
Triple Falls can be reached by a light 1/2 mile hike from the parking area. Dropping 120ft., it is a great view of three different waterfalls descending into one. From the trail, people can walk over
Standing at 150ft., High Falls is another short distance (no more than .75 miles) up the High Falls trail from Triple Falls. Keep an eye out for an unmarked trailhead on the left that descends to the base of High Falls. Rocks are a bit more slippery here so be careful. However, the view is astounding and the mist from the falls is welcoming on a hot summer day.
A covered bridge accessible if you continue up that trail. An interesting point, but not much to see once you arrive there.
If you return to the main highway (Hwy. 64 to 280 towards Brevard), instead of turning onto 280, continue straight across to into the Pisgah National Forest to experience Sliding Rock (a natural 60ft. waterslide) and Looking Glass Falls.
*Do be aware that the average water temperature at Sliding Rock does not typically reach over 60 degrees. So be prepared if you intend to head down the slide. A small fee is also required upon entrance to the Sliding Rock area (bathhouse & changing areas are available).
Finally, after a long day of hiking, biking, etc., we have found an awesome little ice cream shop located on the left after exiting Pisgah from Sliding Rock (before you reach 280). I can't recall the name at the moment, but is a great place to relax in the front porch rockers, eating an ice cream cone, and watching the beautiful North Carolina sunsets. I highly recommend this place to complete your evening. Prices are reasonable and service has been excellent, each time we visit.
Future visits to
*Pet-friendly trails.
*Handicap accessible (Hooker Falls, Sliding Rock).
*Mountain Bike accessible.
Trail Map
General Information
Additional Information
Sliding Rock Information
