LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Douglas Falk
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainTrail Length
2.8 miles
About Douglas Falk
Douglas Falk is a lesser-known waterfall tucked into Pisgah National Forest in western North Carolina and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. While specific height and curtain details aren’t widely documented, the falls are accessible via an established USFS route—the Douglas Falls Trail (USFS Trail #TR162)—making it a rewarding destination for hikers seeking a quieter, backcountry cascade within the national forest. The hike to reach the falls is moderate and relatively short, so it’s suitable for a half-day outing. Plan for an out-and-back of roughly 2.4 miles (USFS GIS records list TR162 at 2.84 miles) with about 350 feet of elevation gain on a natural tread. Camping in Pisgah National Forest is nearby (the closest campground is about 4.58 km away) if you want to turn the trip into an overnight stay managed under USFS recreation rules.
The Setting
Douglas Falk sits at 3,455 feet within Pisgah National Forest, fed by the Beetree Creek, in the mountains of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Douglas Falls (#TR162), a 2.8-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
DOUGLAS FALLS #TR162
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
2.84 miTrail Description
USFS Trail: Douglas Falls (TR162). Trail type: out-and-back, commonly listed as about 2.4 miles round-trip (USFS GIS reports 2.84 miles). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Surface: native material (natural tread). Class: 3 per USFS designation. Trail is managed within Pisgah National Forest by the U.S. Forest Service; expect a primarily natural singletrack with typical forest-grade conditions.
What to Expect
Expect a potentially remote and less-visited waterfall. Conditions and accessibility may vary, and the area may not have marked trails or facilities.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Douglas Falk?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Douglas Falk?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit waterfalls in North Carolina due to favorable weather and water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Pisgah National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always inform someone of your plans if visiting remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 93 years of record
1.36 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 BEETREE CREEK NEAR SWANNANOA, NC (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
1 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
1 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to early May, 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 Barnardsville 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 measures about 260 feet of descent through Douglas Falk, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 3,463 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 367 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 222 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,463 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 260 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Details about the exact location and access to Douglas Falk are unclear. It is recommended to consult local hiking resources or park services for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking information is not available. Visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas if the waterfall is in a remote location.
Elevation
3,455 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.726781° N, -82.380125° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device if attempting to locate this waterfall. Be prepared for rugged terrain and ensure you have adequate supplies.
Where to Stay
The Farmhouse at Wolfehaven
Apt with Wraparound Deck and Epic Views in Burnsville!
Serenity Views Comfort - Close to City & Parkway!
Luxury Cabin 45 Min to Asheville Hot Tub & Fire pit
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
Pisgah National Forest
2.8 miles away · 0 sites
The Pisgah National Forest is a land of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls, and heavily forested slopes. Comprised of over 500,000 acres, the Pisgah is primarily a hardwood forest with whitewater rivers, waterfalls and hundreds of miles of trails. This national forest is home of the first tract of land purchased under the Weeks Act of 1911 which led to the creation of the national forests in the eastern United States. It is also home of the first school of forestry in the United States, now pr
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
North Carolina is home to many waterfalls and hiking trails. Nearby attractions may include other waterfalls or scenic areas, but specific recommendations are unavailable.
Wildlife
The area may host typical North Carolina wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Douglas Falk
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