If you’re looking for a scenic day trip in North Carolina, we highly recommend visiting the waterfalls near Saluda.
This charming town is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the state.
Continue reading as we explore 5 beautiful Saluda waterfalls you can visit, all within a quick drive.
Pearson’s Falls

One of our favorite waterfalls near Saluda is Pearson’s Falls. This waterfall is located on a 268-acre tract of land that has been taken over and maintained by the Tryon Garden Club and is listed as a North Carolina Natural Heritage Area.
To reach Pearson’s Falls, visitors can take a 0.7-mile out-and-back trail. This trail is generally considered an easy route and takes an average of 20 minutes to complete. Along the way, visitors will be treated to lush greenery and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
There is a fee to get into Pearson’s Falls for ages 6 and up, but the small price is well worth what you see. The waterfall itself is 90 feet tall and is surrounded by stunning rock formations. Visitors are encouraged to take their time exploring the area and taking in the natural beauty of the falls.
Overall, Pearson’s Falls is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Saluda area. With its easy-to-navigate trail and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder that over 20,000 visitors come to see it each year.
READ MORE: Tubing in Saluda, NC: Everything You Need to Know
Big Bradley Falls

If you’re looking for a breathtaking waterfall near Saluda, Big Bradley Falls is a must-visit. This 75-foot waterfall is located in the Green River Game Lands and is accessible via a moderately difficult hike of less than a mile.
The trail to Big Bradley Falls is a 4.1 mile out-and-back route that takes an average of 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. While the trail can be challenging at times, it’s worth the effort to see the stunning waterfall at the end.
Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking lookout. The view of the falls from the lookout is truly awe-inspiring and makes for a great photo opportunity.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider signing up for the Big Bradley Waterfall Rappel, which is commonly combined with the Waterfall Trek. This exciting adventure includes rappelling down the waterfall, lunch at the base of the falls, and a guided hike through the surrounding area.
Overall, Big Bradley Falls is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Saluda, North Carolina. The hike to the falls is challenging but manageable, and the view of the waterfall is truly breathtaking.
Little Bradley Falls

Little Bradley Falls is a stunning 50-foot multi-tiered waterfall near Saluda. The trail to the falls is an easy and almost two-mile roundtrip hike, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
The trail to Little Bradley Falls takes you through a shaded forest next to a peaceful stream. Along the way, you will see old ruins and several creek crossings. We recommend bringing water shoes or being ready to take off your regular shoes to cross the creek. Or you can keep your hiking shoes on if you don’t mind getting your socks a little wet!
Once you reach Little Bradley Falls, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the waterfall. The falls are multi-tiered and offer great viewing spots and opportunities to cool off in the pool. The pool is a great spot to take a dip and relax after your hike.
Overall, Little Bradley Falls is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of North Carolina’s waterfalls. We highly recommend visiting this waterfall and experiencing the beauty of the surrounding area.
Melrose Falls

Melrose Falls is a beautiful waterfall located between Saluda and Tryon. It’s a hidden gem that’s worth a visit if you’re in the area. The waterfall is easily accessible via a new trail that was established, and it’s suitable for hikers of all levels.
The hike to Melrose Falls is mostly an easy 0.6-mile walk through the woods (in each direction). The trail is well-maintained, and there are no steep inclines or difficult terrain to navigate. Along the way, you’ll pass by a few smaller waterfalls and streams before reaching Melrose Falls.
Once you arrive at Melrose Falls, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful 45-foot waterfall that cascades down into a small pool. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and the sound of the water is incredibly soothing. There’s a small area near the waterfall where you can sit and enjoy the view, and it’s a great spot for a picnic or a quick rest.
Overall, Melrose Falls is a must-visit if you’re in the Saluda area. It’s a beautiful waterfall that’s easily accessible, and the hike to get there is enjoyable for hikers of all levels.
Hickory Nut Falls

If you’re looking for a waterfall adventure near Saluda, NC, Hickory Nut Falls is a must-visit. Located in Chimney Rock State Park, this 404-foot waterfall is the second-highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River. It’s an easy 1.5-mile hike through the forest, with plenty of rock cliffs and natural wonders along the way.
The trail to Hickory Nut Falls is generally considered an easy route, taking an average of 45 minutes to complete. The trail is well-maintained and features a gradual incline, making it accessible for most skill levels. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
Once you reach the base of the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view of this natural wonder. The mist from the falls creates a refreshing coolness on hot summer days, and the sound of the rushing water is both soothing and invigorating.
Hickory Nut Falls was even one of the filming spots for The Last of the Mohicans, so you might recognize it from the big screen. Whether you’re a movie buff or just a nature lover, Hickory Nut Falls is a must-see destination near Saluda, NC.
Best Time to Visit Saluda
The best time to visit the waterfalls near Saluda, NC is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warm and the waterfalls are at their fullest. The months of April through June are particularly beautiful as the surrounding foliage is in full bloom, creating a picturesque setting for waterfall viewing.
It is important to note that during the winter months, some of the waterfalls may freeze over, making them less accessible and less impressive to view. Additionally, during the fall months, the foliage may begin to change and fall, which can obstruct some of the views of the waterfalls.
Explore Other Waterfalls in Western North Carolina
While Saluda offers some beautiful waterfalls to explore, there are plenty of other areas in Western North Carolina that are home to great waterfalls to visit. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Murphy: If you’re willing to take a bit of a drive, Murphy is home to some truly stunning waterfalls. Check out 10 Beautiful Waterfalls Near Murphy, North Carolina for some great options.
- Hendersonville: Known for its historic charm and vibrant arts scene, Hendersonville is also home to some breathtaking waterfalls. Take a look at 12 Stunning Waterfalls Near Hendersonville, North Carolina for more information.
- Boone: Just a short drive from Saluda, Boone is another great destination for waterfall enthusiasts. Check out 10 Gorgeous Waterfalls Near Boone NC for some of the best options in the area.
No matter where you choose to explore, Western North Carolina is home to some truly stunning waterfalls that are sure to take your breath away.