Waterfalls can be the payoff when you go on a long hike, but the same is true for these five waterfalls near the road in North Carolina.
If narrow winding roads with steep drop-offs bother you, then you might want to skip visiting these first three waterfalls. All are located along U.S. 64 between Franklin and Highlands. This is the Cullajasa River Gorge, a place where the rage of wild waters is sure to instill a sense of calm in those who drive through it.
Cullasaja Falls
Photo by Clayton Hensley @knoxdaytripper
As you enter the gorge from Franklin, the namesake falls of the gorge are sure to catch your attention with the brilliant white water contrasting with the dense forest around it. While the sight of the falls might just take your breath away, that glimpse from the road may be all you get. if you want to stop and get a closer look, there is only one place to park along the road and there’s only room for a couple of cars.
Dry Falls
Photo by Clayton Hensley @knoxdaytripper
So how can you stay dry while standing under a waterfall? Just check out this water wonder in the middle of the Cullajasa Gorge. Because of its protruding rock ledge, water falls far enough away that you can walk behind the water and stay dry. Of course, when water levels are high, a soothing mist from the water might dampen your trip under the falls just a bit.
Bridal Veil Falls
Photo by Clayton Hensley @knoxdaytripper
Just before U.S. 64 heads into Highlands there is a chance for you to drive under a waterfall. Bridal Veil Falls doesn’t carry a large volume of water, but like its name, the veil of water is certainly worth a stop and if you can, a short drive underneath it.
After U.S. 64 leaves Highlands and Cashiers it winds its way through Transylvania County, the Land of Waterfalls. As the highway crosses the Toxaway Dam you might catch a glimpse of the waterfall underneath (this one’s a bonus waterfall on the list). Toxaway Falls was created when an older dam failed and wiped out much of the vegetation, exposing the rocks underneath it. There is no easy way to see the waterfall up close as the area is mostly private property.
Connestee Falls
Photo by Clayton Hensley @knoxdaytripper
A few miles before U.S. 64 moves into Brevard, there is a hidden treasure on the edge of an upscale gated community bearing the same name as the falls. A small park and boardwalk lead you to the top of Connestee Falls which is actually two waterfalls coming together to form one. Unfortunately, the only public view you can get of these falls is from the platform at the top.
Looking Glass Falls
Photo by Clayton Hensley @knoxdaytripper
Alice would certainly be happy taking a turn off U.S. 64, just east of Brevard onto U.S. 276. That’s where you find one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Looking Glass Falls gets its name from the nearby Looking Glass Rock, a massive monolith in this part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ample parking is available at the falls and it’s just a short walk down the steps to get to the base. At certain times of the year, you’ll also find plenty of people swimming in the large pool below the falls.
