LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Glencannon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Glencannon Falls
Glencannon Falls is a small, photogenic cascade tucked into a quiet stand of North Carolina forest. Framed by mossy rocks and verdant foliage, the falls make an easy reward for hikers seeking a peaceful, less-trafficked outing rather than a busy tourist spot. The approach is a pleasant woodland hike of moderate effort, so expect a short climb before the sound of falling water appears through the trees. The trail to the falls is an accessible day-hike option for families and solo explorers; if you want to extend your stay, Sycamore Flats Picnic Shelter — a nearby campground and picnic area — sits about 5.6 km (roughly 3.5 miles) from the falls and provides a convenient place to camp or picnic after your hike. Pack layers, water, and a camera: the combination of quiet pools and dappled light makes Glencannon Falls especially inviting in spring and fall.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The climb is steady but not steep, making the hike suitable for most moderately fit visitors; expect typical forest trail conditions and some uneven footing where roots and rocks are present. No specific USFS trail number or official surface/grade/class data is provided for this approach, so check local trail reports before you go. Sycamore Flats Picnic Shelter campground is located about 5.6 km away if you plan to combine the hike with an overnight or picnic.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic environment with a small waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in North Carolina.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Glencannon Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Glencannon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit, as the weather is mild and the surrounding foliage is vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 45°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Trail conditions may vary, and the area may be slippery after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting alone. Cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Davidson River, 3.3 miles away, not on Glencannon Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
60 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 103 years of record
0.72 ft
Water depth at gauge
45°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 45 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DAVIDSON RIVER NEAR BREVARD, NC (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
61 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
57 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late 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 Brevard hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Glencannon Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Glencannon Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 44°F to 34°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 61 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
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.
The ground through the falls loses about 153 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,312 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 67 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 58 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,312 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 153 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Glencannon Falls is not well-documented. Visitors may need to consult local guides or hiking resources for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should plan ahead and check for nearby parking options.
Elevation
2,313 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.225948° N, -82.696791° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially uneven terrain. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Hampton Inn Brevard
Airstream w Bathtub, River, & Hot Tub
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
SYCAMORE FLATS PICNIC SHELTER
3.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Sycamore Flats Picnic Shelter is located along the Davidson River on the Pisgah National Forest. This picnic area was named for the sycamore trees which line the banks of the river.The shelter is available on a first come, first served basis from mid-November to April 15th. Reservations are available April 16th through mid-November. Some amenities may not be available during the off-season. This is a popular destination with limited parking, please plan accordingly.Recreation Sycamore Fl
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near East Flat Rock, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near East Flat Rock, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and hiking trails in North Carolina may be nearby, but specific attractions near Glencannon Falls are not documented.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical North Carolina wildlife, such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Glencannon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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