Highlands Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
About Highlands Falls
Highlands Falls tumbles along the Cullasaja River just outside the town of Highlands, North Carolina. Nestled within the Nantahala National Forest on a plateau in the southern Appalachian Mountains, the falls spill over a series of ledges and boulders, creating a photogenic cascade framed by rhododendron and hardwood forest. The road-accessible pull-off makes Highlands Falls one of the more convenient roadside waterfalls in the region—perfect for a quick stop or a relaxed picnic with the sound of rushing water. If you want to stretch your legs, there is a nearby out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the hike is rated moderate and gives additional upstream and downstream perspectives of the Cullasaja River corridor. The falls sit on U.S. Forest Service land managed as part of Nantahala National Forest near the incorporated town of Highlands (population 1,014 at the 2020 census), so follow Forest Service guidelines and leave no trace while enjoying the scenery.
The Setting
Highlands Falls sits at 3,802 feet along the Little Tennessee River, in the mountains of North Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Cullasaja Falls (250 ft) lies 6.3 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Dry Falls (75 ft, 3.7 mi) and Bridal Veil Falls (45 ft, 3.1 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Highlands Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Highlands Falls is visible from a roadside pull-off and requires only a short, level walk from the parking area for the primary view. For a longer outing, there is an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty. Trail type: out-and-back. Specific USFS trail surface, grade, or trail number were not provided in the available data, so visitors should be prepared for typical natural-footing conditions and moderate climbs on the longer route.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Highlands Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Highlands Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage in the surrounding area.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution when parking and walking near the highway. Do not attempt to climb on the rocks or get too close to the water, as the currents can be dangerous.
Current Water Conditions
100 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 82 years of record
1.35 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 TENNESSEE RIVER NEAR PRENTISS, NC (21 km away).
Today
Low
100 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
104 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
106 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
109 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
111 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
117 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
125 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, peaking in April.
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 Highlands 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 216 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 3,806 feet.
The ground changes about 114 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 36 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest 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
- 3,806 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 216 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- 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 southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Highlands Falls is located along US Highway 64, just a short drive from the town of Highlands, NC. The waterfall is visible from the road, and there is a small pull-off area for viewing.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the waterfall. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and exiting their vehicles, as the area is close to the highway.
Elevation
3,802 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.070276° N, -83.174192° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, as the roadside pull-off can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Be cautious of traffic when parking and exiting your vehicle.
Where to Stay
Fun Pet-Friendly Highlands Retreat w/ Fenced Yard!
Spectacular Mountain Views With Your Own Private Hot Tub!
Red Top Tree House
Chalet at Peek's Creek
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
West Fork Campground (Clayton, GA)
8.6 miles away · 5 sites
Overview All Campsites at West Fork Campground are reservation only, you must reserve through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777Visitors to this 5-site campground marvel over the picturesque bird's eye view of the world renowned Chattooga Wild and Scenic River. Situated along the west fork of the river, this area offers isolation and adventure all in one. Visitors often comment they feel as though they've been swept back in time and are looking out onto the great frontier of the past when
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the town of Highlands, which offers shops, restaurants, and other scenic spots.
Wildlife
The area around Highlands Falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and occasionally deer.
Cities near Highlands Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Highlands Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.