High Shoals Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
150 ft
About High Shoals Falls
High Shoals Falls is a compact, scenic waterfall located in Burke County, North Carolina. The falls are a popular short-hike destination thanks to a brief approach — the route listed in available sources is a 1.0-mile out-and-back with about 150 feet of elevation gain, making the visit accessible for most hikers and families seeking a quick nature stop. The available sources do not list a specific federal land unit or managing agency for the site, so visitors should plan logistics accordingly; the nearest campground in the provided data is Brush Creek Campground, roughly 23.11 km away. With its short trail and woodland setting, High Shoals Falls is an inviting half-day outing for photographers, day-hikers, and anyone wanting a scenic waterfall without a long commitment on the trail.
The Setting
High Shoals Falls sits at 879 feet along the Little Tallapoosa River, in the foothills of Alabama.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 150 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail: 1.0-mile out-and-back, elevation gain ~150 ft, difficulty: easy. The trail type is out-and-back and is suitable for most hikers; however, no USFS trail name or number is provided in the available sources. Specific USFS trail details such as surface, grade, or class were not included in the provided data, so expect a short woodland path with modest climbing over natural terrain to reach 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 High Shoals Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at High Shoals Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger after seasonal rains, and the surrounding foliage is particularly beautiful.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions, and avoid visiting during heavy rain or storms.
Current Water Conditions
44 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 49 years of record
1.68 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 LITTLE TALLAPOOSA RIVER NEAR NEWELL AL (23 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
44 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
43 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
41 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
58 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
56 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
57 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January to late April, peaking in February.
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 Rock Mills 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 86 feet through High Shoals Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 893 feet.
The ground changes about 39 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 93 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
- 893 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 86 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
High Shoals Falls is located within the Talladega National Forest. The trailhead can be accessed via High Shoals Road, which is off of Cheaha Road. Visitors should follow signs for the High Shoals Falls Trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
879 feet above sea level
Coordinates
33.237146° N, -85.332828° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery after rain. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
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This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Key West Inn - Roanoke
Baymont by Wyndham LaGrange
Enloe House Lodging & Events
La Quinta by Wyndham LaGrange / I-85
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
Brush Creek Campground
14.4 miles away · 0 sites
This recreation area is part of West Point Lake
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Nearby Attractions
Cheaha State Park, the highest point in Alabama, is located nearby and offers additional hiking trails and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
Cities near High Shoals Falls
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