Highlands, NC Waterfalls | 6 BEAUTIFUL Waterfalls Nearby

We have to admit – with North Carolina being home to hundreds of waterfalls and many of those within driving distance of Highlands, this list was tough to build.

Known for its wealth of hikes for all ranges and beautiful views, Highlands, North Carolina is one of the top mountain towns in the state for adventure seekers looking to avoid the traffic of other popular areas like Boone or Asheville.

Continue reading or click through the table of contents below to see our breakdown of the most beautiful waterfalls Highlands, NC waterfalls that you can hit in a day.

1. Dry Falls

Dry Falls in Highlands, North Carolina

Height: 65 ft

Hiking Distance: .25mi round trip

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

Kicking off our list of the top waterfalls in Highlands is arguably one of the town’s top attractions: Dry Falls

This stunning 65 ft waterfall is just a few minutes outside of downtown and is one of many waterfalls along the Cullasaja River in the Nantahala National Forest. The short drive to the parking area takes you down twists and turns that offer great views of Cullasaja Gorge.

The hike up to the falls is a quick, quarter-mile round trip. It begins at a marked trailhead just off US 64, where there’s a large viewing platform you can use to take a peek at the falls. 

After that, the path dives slightly downward where it wraps behind the waterfall where you can hear the roaring sounds of the water tumbling over you and explore a small cave.

RELATED: 8 BEST HIKES NEAR HIGHLANDS, NC | TRAILS FOR ALL AGES

2. Glen Falls

Height: 60-70ft

Hiking Distance: 2.4mi out and back

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

Glen Falls will provide you with a lot of bang for your buck if you’re looking for good hiking options in Highlands.

With a distance of just over 2 miles out and back, this hike packs in 3 stunning viewpoints along the lower, middle, and upper falls as you travel down the short but moderately challenging trail.

Glen Falls is an excellent day-hike if you’re looking to bring your furry friend. Several small waterholes will pop up that you and your pup can use to cool off as you travel down the path.

There is also a small parking lot and parking area available on the side of Glenn Falls Rd once you reach the trailhead. It’s easy to navigate and find a spot.

RELATED: 12 Stunning Waterfalls Near Hendersonville, North Carolina

3. Bridal Veil Falls

Height: 120ft

Hiking Distance: None

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

One of the easiest accessible waterfalls in North Carolina, Bridal Veil Falls is your answer if you’re looking for somewhere nearby you can get to without a long hike

Sitting immediately to the left off highway 64 about 2.4 miles before you reach Highlands, the parking area sits just feet from the waterfall, where you can drive right up, park, and explore the area beneath and behind it.

The rugged rock structures to the sides of these falls will bring back memories of the picturesque views of the Oregon coast if you’ve ever been.

Fun Fact: You used to be able to drive your car behind Bridal Veil Falls, but it was blocked off recently due to falling rocks and ice in the wintertime. 

4. Bust Your Butt Falls

Bust Your Butt Falls near Highlands, NC

Hiking Distance: None

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

Known for its laughable name, Bust Your Butt Falls undoubtedly lives up to it. Located on the Cullasaja River along US Highway 64, this popular waterfall and swimming hole is a go-to spot for many Highlands locals in the summer and a great day trip if you’re visiting.

Check the water levels before you attempt to slide down the falls. We wouldn’t suggest trying to if they’re high; however, the swimming hole is always fair game. 

There is a pull-off area just off US 64 West on your right and left where you can park for Bust Your Butt Falls. The falls are a short walk away, where you can hop in for a swim or just stop by to enjoy the view in the winter!

RELATED: Traveling with an RV to Highlands? Explore the top Highlands, NC RV Parks that you can park at to enjoy all of the hikes and waterfalls around.

5. Secret Falls

Secret falls near highlands, nc

Height: 50ft

Hiking Distance: 1mi out and back

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

20 minutes south of Highlands near the Georgia State Line lies one of the most hidden waterfalls nearby. Per its name, Secret Falls is often only visited by locals due to its lack of signage and unmarked trails.

You will find a stake in the parking area indicating the start of the trail once you reach the Google Maps ping linked above. There are blue rectangles on trees along the path to guide you to the falls when you find that.

Once you reach the top of the falls, there’s an area that offers beautiful views of the pool below, but beware of wet rocks if you have children with you! The main trail continues past the campsite and guides you down to the beach where you can jump in and cool off in the summer.

READ MORE: 5 Beautiful Waterfalls Near Saluda, North Carolina

6. Cullasaja Falls

Cullasaja falls near highlands, north carolina

Height: 250ft

Hiking Distance: None

Dog-friendly: Yes

Get Directions: Click here.

Situated alongside Highway 64 about 9 miles west of Highlands is Cullasaja Falls – one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Nantahala National Forest and the highest waterfall on the Cullasaja river. Plus, It’s really easy to get to.

There is roadside parking on Highway 64 where you can pull off and take in views of the falls, however, parking is extremely limited. This is a dangerous stretch of 64, so please take caution.

You’ll also find a short trail down to the bottom of the falls that you shouldn’t attempt unless you’re an expert climber.

Note: Cullasaja Falls is only 5.5 miles west of Dry Falls if you want to hit both of them in the same trip!

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