Waterfall Hikes Near Charlotte, NC
Charlotte sits low in the Piedmont, so waterfalls are scarce close in. Great Falls of Catawba is the nearest one worth driving to, about two miles of walking to reach the river ledges. Cedar Falls is a half-mile stroll and takes dogs. Three falls land inside the radius, which is why most Charlotte hikers point the car northwest toward the mountains when they want something bigger.
Map of Waterfalls Near Charlotte
Pins are within 50 miles; hollow circles are day trips 50–100 miles out.
Today's Conditions
Live data from USGS gauges & National Weather Service
Water Flow
3 waterfalls near Charlotte have live flow data today
Updated about 3 hours ago via USGS
Best Day to Hike
Sunday
Sunny · 56°F
Flowing best right now near Charlotte
Updated about 3 hours agoRanked by live stream-gauge flow versus each waterfall's seasonal normal.
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All 3 Waterfalls Near Charlotte
🧭 Day Trips From Charlotte (94 waterfalls, 50–100 miles away)
Everything listed above is within 50 miles of Charlotte. Make a day of it and 94 more are within 100 miles. The closest is Carter Falls, about 55 miles away, and the tallest is Raven Cliff Falls at 420 ft. They're spread across North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.
Distances are approximate, measured from the center of Charlotte; the drive is usually longer.
LiDAR
LiDAR
Showing the 12 closest of 94. For the rest, browse North Carolina waterfalls, South Carolina waterfalls, and Virginia waterfalls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Near Charlotte
Are there free waterfalls near Charlotte?
There is 1 free waterfall near Charlotte, including Cedar Falls.
Are there kid-friendly waterfalls near Charlotte?
There is 1 kid-friendly waterfall near Charlotte, including Cedar Falls.
What is the shortest waterfall hike near Charlotte?
The shortest waterfall hike near Charlotte is Great Falls of Catawba at 2.0 miles round trip.
Can I camp near the waterfalls around Charlotte?
Yes, 1 waterfall near Charlotte has nearby campgrounds.
What is the closest waterfall to Charlotte?
The closest waterfall to Charlotte is Great Falls of Catawba, approximately 32.8 miles away.
What waterfalls are within a day trip of Charlotte?
Beyond the 3 waterfalls within 50 miles, 94 more are between 50 and 100 miles from Charlotte. The closest of those is Carter Falls, approximately 55.1 miles away.
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