Affectionately referred to as the “Land of Waterfalls”, this guidebook showcases a handful of classic waterfall hikes within an hour of Asheville. Everything on the list is family friendly, including those of the four-legged variety.
LessPopular among mountain bikers and trail runners, Daniel Ridge is a moderate hike with a 150' cascading waterfall near the trailhead. If you're limited on time, the falls is only a short walk and perfect for the entire family. Look for the sign that denotes the way.
Less than 30 minutes from Brevard or the Blue Ridge Parkway, Courthouse Falls offers a beautiful 45' waterfall that fills a deep pool perfect for swimming on a hot summer day. The river's headwaters begin below the popular hike at Devil's Courthouse, a beautiful rocky overlook of the encompassing Courthouse Valley.
Graveyard Fields is one of the more popular spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Pisgah National Forest - and it's not hard to see why. Over 5,000' above sea level, this flat mountain valley is known for its incredibly serene and beautiful waterfalls that pass through forming the headwaters of the Yellowstone Prong of the Pigeon River.
Skinny Dip Falls is a classic waterfall hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway, perfect for a hot summer day. Several swimming holes, including one that's ~6 feet deep, make it a popular summer destination for the entire family - including the dog.
Just a short drive from Asheville, this summit hike is a must-do for any adventurer. On the way up, the trail passes Graybeard Falls, Walden's Rock, and Walker's Knob—all excellent destinations for those looking for a shorter hike.
Just a short drive from Asheville, this hike is an excellent opportunity to experience one of North Carolina's premier waterfalls. Most would consider the hike easy, though as you approach the base of the falls, off-camber rocks and roots may pose challenging obstacles to some.