Big Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Falls
Big Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Nantahala National Forest near Marble, North Carolina. It is known for its cascading waters and serene surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The waterfall is relatively remote and requires some effort to access, offering a rewarding experience for those who visit.
The Setting
Big Falls sits at 3,369 feet within Nantahala National Forest, fed by the Valley River, in the mountains of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Big Snowbird (#TR64), a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
BIG SNOWBIRD #TR64
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
8.40 miTrail Description
The trail to Big Falls is an out-and-back route that winds through the Nantahala National Forest. It features moderate elevation gain and may include uneven terrain, making it suitable for hikers with some experience. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding forest and leads to the base of the waterfall.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience but could have icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Nantahala National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The rocks around the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid getting too close to the edge. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
73 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
1.76 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge VALLEY RIVER AT TOMOTLA, NC (14 km away).
Today
Low
83 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Moderate
84 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
78 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
77 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
73 cfs
6/10Sun
Barely Flowing
74 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Best window: Sat — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid January to mid April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Marble hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 140 feet through Big Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 3,359 feet.
The ground changes about 28 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 18 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,359 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 140 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Falls is located approximately 6 miles from Marble, 9 miles from Lake Santeetlah, and 9.2 miles from Andrews, North Carolina. The coordinates for the waterfall are 35.2656, -83.966. Access typically involves driving on forest roads and hiking a trail to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved or gravel parking areas.
Elevation
3,369 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.265641° N, -83.966020° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the trail can become slippery in wet conditions. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.
Where to Stay
The Junction
Mistletoe Cabin- Private cabin w views, Hottub, pet friendly
Quality Inn & Suites Robbinsville
Stonebrook Lodge Murphy
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
SWAN CABIN
6.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Nestled in a remote area of Nantahala National Forest, this primitive log cabin was built in 1931 by Frank Swan in a different location, then later it was moved to its current location near the Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness. The cabin and the surrounding meadows are named for the Swan Family, who came to the area from Pennsylvania in the late 19th century. Swan Cabin offers a peaceful, quiet retreat where visitors can relax on the front porch and enjoy birdsong and views of the surro
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Lake Santeetlah, the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, and the town of Andrews, which offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Big Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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