Where there are mountains, there are waterfalls—and ours near Franklin, North Carolina are truly spectacular! You don’t want to miss these breathtaking natural phenomena on your next visit up to the Blue Ridge, so we’re here to tell you a little bit about some of our most popular spots.
This one’s for the sweethearts. The waterfall drops in an elegant, 60-foot spray from a mountain stream high above US-64, looking like a blushing bride’s headpiece on her big day. Bridal Veil Falls is the perfect place to stop if you’re passing through; you can actually drive behind the falls and see the world from the bride’s eyes. Not bad for a date night, if we do say so ourselves!
Hoping to hop out of the car for your waterfall experience with the safety of guard rails? Dry Falls is your place, and it’s also on US-64. The name may make you chuckle, but the falls themselves will take your breath away as you walk behind the roaring 80-foot wonder. You’ll even realize where the moniker comes from if the water flow is low—you won’t have to worry about mist from the fall! If the level is higher, get ready for a light, refreshing spray as you walk. You can park at the top of the short hike, and there are even visitor facilities for your convenience. Dry Falls is a great destination for family photos and light adventuring!
Cullasaja Falls is the big brother of the falls, and you can even see him from US-64 as you drive through! The cascade is a whopping 250 feet of rushing thunder that is truly a marvel to experience. Cullasaja Falls is not for the faint of heart, though—to park, there is simply a well-used pull off where you can access the steep trail down to the falls themselves. It’s a bit more of a challenge, but if you’re up to it, you absolutely won’t be disappointed!
But don’t stop there!
Franklin is also near the Nantahala National Forest, and there are plenty more waterfalls to see if you’re willing to venture in, like Rufus Morgan Falls, Mooney Falls, Big Laurel Falls, and Upper Buck Creek Falls.
Be sure to work some waterfall-chasing into your next big Smoky Mountain adventure in Franklin, North Carolina!
