Upper Whitewater Falls

Upper Whitewater Falls is a stunning 411-foot waterfall found in the Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina. The easy trail makes it an inviting destination for anyone who enjoys both waterfalls and wild scenery.

Upper Whitewater Falls Trail Description

From the parking area, look for the paved trail to bend into the woods below a large cliff face. You’ll easily saunter up to the first overlook through a serene deciduous forest. The first overlook comes easily as the roar of the falls intensifies (especially after rainy weather). Spread out below is a captivating 411-foot waterfall cascading down the rocky cliffs of the mountains. When you’ve taken in this view, proceed down the stairs to the next overlook, or turn back if you’d prefer.

Dropping 100 vertical feet, you’ll take the well-maintained staircase down, the falls and scenery continuing to delight as you head downward. After 0.1 miles, you’ll reach the next overlook, giving you a gorgeous vantage point directly across the canyon from Whitewater Falls. The view point shows off the majesty of the terrain and invites visitors to linger and admire the view as much as possible.

A trail also continues down, but note that there are no more views of the falls from there. Enjoy the scene as long as you’d like, and when ready, head back out the way you came in.

Getting There

From Cashiers, head south on NC-107 S for 9.1 miles. Take a left onto State Road S-37-413. Follow that for 2.2 miles, turning left again onto SC-130 N. After 1.2 miles, turn right onto Whitewater Falls Lane and proceed ahead a short distance until the road dead-ends into the parking area.