Cullasaja Falls waterfall

Cullasaja Falls

North Carolina

Difficulty

Drive Up

Trail Length

0.0 miles

Trail Type

Unknown

Elevation Gain

0 ft

Best Seasons to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Cullasaja Falls is during the spring and fall. In spring, the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall, while fall offers stunning foliage that enhances the scenery.

About Hiking Cullasaja Falls

Cullasaja Falls is a stunning 250-foot waterfall located in the Nantahala National Forest in North Carolina. It is part of the Cullasaja River and is one of the most picturesque waterfalls along the scenic U.S. Highway 64, also known as the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.

Height: 250 feet

Location & Access

Getting There

Cullasaja Falls is located along U.S. Highway 64 between Franklin and Highlands, North Carolina. The waterfall is visible from the road, but there is no designated parking area or trailhead for direct access.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is extremely limited and can be hazardous as it is located on a narrow shoulder of the highway. Visitors should exercise caution when stopping to view the falls.

Elevation

2461 feet above sea level

Coordinates

35.116973° N, -83.269985° W

Trail Information

Accessibility

Cullasaja Falls is not wheelchair accessible due to the lack of designated parking or trails.

Trail Description

There is no official trail to Cullasaja Falls. The waterfall is best viewed from the roadside along U.S. Highway 64. Visitors should be cautious as the road is narrow and winding, with limited visibility for oncoming traffic.

What to Expect

Cullasaja Falls is a cascading waterfall that drops in multiple tiers, creating a dramatic and picturesque scene. The falls are surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular spot for photography. However, due to the lack of safe parking and trails, visitors should plan for a brief roadside stop rather than a prolonged visit.

Seasonal Closures

Cullasaja Falls is open year-round, but access may be limited during winter months due to icy road conditions.

Safety Information

Exercise extreme caution when stopping along U.S. Highway 64 to view the falls. The road is narrow and winding, with limited visibility for oncoming traffic. Avoid venturing too close to the edge of the road.

Visitor Tips

Tips for Your Visit

Arrive early in the day to avoid traffic and secure a safe spot to view the falls. Be cautious of passing vehicles when stopping along the highway. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls, but avoid venturing too close to the edge of the road.

What to Bring

  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Water
  • Comfortable shoes (if exploring nearby areas)

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cullasaja Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆓 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Cullasaja Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the town of Highlands, NC are all located nearby and worth visiting.

Wildlife

The surrounding Nantahala National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.

Seasonal Closures

Cullasaja Falls is open year-round, but access may be limited during winter months due to icy road conditions.

Cities near Cullasaja Falls