12 Stunning Waterfalls Near Hendersonville, North Carolina

Known for its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and the famous annual North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville, North Carolina is a destination that captivates all who visit. But the allure of this charming town doesn’t stop at its borders. Just a short drive away, you’ll find some breathtaking waterfalls near Hendersonville, each offering a unique blend of beauty, tranquility, and adventure.

In this guide, we’ll explore 12 of these natural wonders, all within an hour’s drive from town. From the cascading beauty of Triple Falls to the natural water slide of Sliding Rock, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. 

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Best Waterfalls Near Hendersonville, North Carolina

Triple Falls

Triple Falls Hike near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: 89 Buck Forest Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
  • Hike Length: 2.9 miles round trip, easy difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 25 miles

Triple Falls and High Falls in DuPont State Forest are two of the most iconic waterfalls in North Carolina. The trail leading to these falls is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding forest. Triple Falls, as the name suggests, is a three-tiered waterfall with a combined height of approximately 120 feet. 

Just a short hike away, High Falls is a majestic 150-foot waterfall that cascades down a steep cliff. The trail offers several viewpoints, each providing a unique view of the falls and the lush valley below. The proximity of these two waterfalls makes this hike a must-do for any waterfall enthusiast.

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High Falls

High Falls Hike near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: 1300 Staton Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
  • Hike Length: Varies based on the route
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 25 miles

Also located in DuPont State Forest, High Falls is a majestic 150-foot waterfall. The trail to the falls offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and the falls themselves. The waterfall is particularly beautiful after heavy rain when the water volume increases, creating a powerful cascade. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

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Hooker Falls

Hooker Falls Hike near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: 1300 Staton Rd, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
  • Hike Length: 0.8 miles round trip, easy difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 25 miles

Hooker Falls, another gem in DuPont State Forest, is a popular spot due to its easy accessibility and the swimming hole at the base of the falls. The waterfall drops about 12 feet into a large pool, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day. 

The trail to the falls is relatively flat and easy, making it suitable for families with children. The surrounding forest offers a peaceful setting, making your short hike to the falls a relaxing experience.

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Pearson’s Falls

Pearson's Falls near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: 2748 Pearson Falls Rd, Saluda, NC 28773
  • Hike Length: 0.5 miles round trip, easy difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 20 miles

Pearson’s Falls is a serene 90-foot waterfall located in a botanical preserve owned by The Tryon Garden Club. It requires a small fee to visit and pets are not permitted due to the abundance of rare native plants.

The trail to the falls is a well-maintained, easy walk that meanders through a lush, fern-filled forest. The area is home to over 200 species of rare ferns, flowering plants, algae, and mosses. The waterfall is a tranquil spot, perfect for relaxation and nature photography.

Wintergreen Falls

  • Parking: Guion Farm Access Area, Sky Valley Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28739
  • Hike Length: 3 miles round trip, easy difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 15 miles

Wintergreen Falls, located in DuPont State Forest, is a beautiful 20-foot waterfall. The trail to the falls is relatively flat and easy, making it a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous hike. The waterfall, surrounded by a backdrop of greenery, is a peaceful spot that’s perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment of reflection. 

The trail meanders through a beautiful hardwood forest, offering a peaceful hike that’s perfect for nature lovers. The waterfall, though not large, is a beautiful sight, especially in the fall when the surrounding trees are ablaze with color.

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Grassy Creek Falls

  • Parking: Buck Forest Rd, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
  • Hike Length: 2.2 miles round trip, moderate difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 25 miles

Grassy Creek Falls is a hidden gem in DuPont State Forest. This beautiful cascade waterfall is a sight to behold, especially after a good rain. The trail to the falls offers a moderate hike through a beautiful hardwood forest. The waterfall, though not large, is a beautiful sight, especially in the fall when the surrounding trees are ablaze with color.

Looking Glass Falls

Looking Glass Waterfall near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: US-276, Brevard, NC 28712
  • Hike Length: Visible from the road, no hiking required
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 20 miles

Looking Glass Falls is one of the most popular and easily accessible waterfalls in North Carolina. Located in the Pisgah National Forest, this 60-foot waterfall is visible from an overlook off US-276, north of Brevard. The waterfall gets its name from Looking Glass Rock, which in winter, frequently becomes covered in ice, reflecting the sun like a mirror or ‘looking glass.’

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Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock Falls near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: Sliding Rock Recreation Area, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768
  • Hike Length: Short walk from the parking area
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 30 miles

While not technically a waterfall, Sliding Rock is a natural water slide that has become a favorite destination for families and adventure seekers. The waterfall is a 60-foot flat, sloping boulder down which visitors can slide into a 6-7 feet deep pool. Lifeguards are usually on duty during the summer season, and there’s a viewing platform for those who prefer to watch the fun.

Moore Cove Falls

  • Parking: US-276, Brevard, NC 28712
  • Hike Length: 1.5 miles round trip, easy difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 25 miles

Moore Cove Falls, located in the Pisgah National Forest is an easy hike near Brevard, North Carolina that’s accessible for all ages and skill levels. The waterfall is unique because you can walk behind the falls and enjoy the view from the other side. The trail to the falls is relatively flat and winds through a beautiful hardwood forest, making it a great option for families or those looking for a less strenuous hike.

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Connestee Falls

Connestee Falls  near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: Connestee Falls Park, Brevard, NC 28712
  • Hike Length: Short walk from the parking area
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 20 miles

Connestee Falls is a pair of waterfalls on the Connestee Creek and Batson Creek. The two waterfalls merge together to create a beautiful and unique sight. The falls are easily accessible from the parking area, making it a great option for those who prefer less strenuous activities.

Courthouse Falls

Courthouse Falls near Hendersonville, North Carolina
  • Parking: Courthouse Creek Road, Brevard, NC 28712
  • Hike Length: 3 miles round trip, moderate difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 40 miles

Courthouse Falls, located in the Pisgah National Forest, is a beautiful 45-foot waterfall that plunges into a deep, cool pool. The trail to the falls is a moderate hike through a dense forest, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The waterfall is a perfect spot for a refreshing swim on a hot summer day.

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Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls in North Carolina
  • Parking: Gorges State Park, Sapphire, NC 28774
  • Hike Length: 3 miles round trip, moderate to strenuous difficulty
  • Distance from Hendersonville: 40 miles

Rainbow Falls is a stunning 150-foot waterfall located in Gorges State Park. The waterfall gets its name from the frequent rainbows that appear in its mist. The trail to the falls is a bit strenuous but offers rewarding views of the falls and the surrounding forest. The base of the falls is a great spot for a picnic or a refreshing swim.