The Waterfall Byway: 8 Top Waterfalls To Visit

There are plenty of people who visit the Smokies of Western North Carolina to “chase waterfalls.” and after you see a few of these in person you’ll know why. But if you’re think about Our friends at Visit Smokies say drivers might want to start outside Brevard at the 150 foot Toxaway Falls.

Then try Sapphire’s trio of incredible falls in the Gorges State Park: Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Hidden Falls.

Closer to home

Dry Falls. Photo by Eric Haggart

Heading back toward Franklin, possibly through, or just near Cashiers and The Highlands, drivers will want to stop for Dry Falls, where you can walk behind the waterfall, and stay dry. Then there is Bridal Veil Falls.

Bridal Veil Falls

Heading closer to Franklin, there is Bust Your Butt Falls. Yeah, the name says it all. Beautiful and fun.

Bust Your Butt Falls is a fun place to…well, you know.

And the amazing Cullasaja Falls.

Cullasaja Falls in the Cullasaja Gorge can be seen from the road or from the riverbed for intrepid hikers. We promise none of the pictures in this story does any waterfall justice. They must be seen.

Finally, when the day is done, and you’re ready to relax and see how a brew or glass of wine might flow, visit Franklin’s breweries like Lazy Hiker and Currahee, or the Slanted Window Tasting Station. Of course, all of these place offer great bites from food trucks or their own kitchen. If that’s not your scene, visit any one of our restaurants for a small town, dining experience.

Cullasaja Falls Cover Photo Credit: Chief Devin Holland

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