Kennedy Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
About Kennedy Falls
Kennedy Falls is a tucked-away cascade in North Carolina, offering a peaceful forest setting and a chance to escape into nature. The falls are framed by mature woods and make for a rewarding destination whether you’re seeking a short nature outing or a photographic stop along a longer day on the trail. The site’s quiet, wooded character makes it a pleasant spot to linger and enjoy the sound of falling water. Reaching Kennedy Falls involves a moderate hike that complements the site’s tranquil feel. The approach is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so plan for a half-day outing at an easy-to-moderate pace. Trails in this area can be natural and, in places, unmarked, so bring a map, sturdy footwear, and water to make the most of your visit.
The Setting
Kennedy Falls sits at 2,388 feet along the Nantahala River, in the hills of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles (round trip as listed). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Surface and formal trail class/grade are not documented for this route; hikers should expect natural footpaths that may be unmarked in sections. Navigation basics, steady footing, and preparedness for uneven terrain are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls, offering a more secluded experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Kennedy Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Kennedy Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are typically the best times to visit due to moderate weather and vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may be uneven or unmarked. Visitors should exercise caution, especially after rain, as trails may become slippery. Carry a first aid kit and inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
652 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
2.73 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 NANTAHALA RIVER NEAR HEWITT, NC (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
652 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Strong
621 cfs
7/10Sat
Strong
505 cfs
7/10Sun
Strong
604 cfs
7/10Mon
Strong
552 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
518 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
534 cfs
9/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid January to late January, peaking in December.
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 Andrews 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 287 feet of descent through Kennedy Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 2,390 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 231 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 146 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing north, the falls 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
- 2,390 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 287 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The exact location of Kennedy Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local hiking guides or park services for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider carpooling if visiting with a group.
Elevation
2,388 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.200645° N, -83.764897° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as trail markings may be unclear. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water and snacks. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn Andrews
Smoky Mountain Cabin Rental Game Room, Fire Pit!
Hygge Hus Hotel
The Lodge Nantahala River
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
CHEOAH POINT CAMPGROUND
13.1 miles away · 23 sites
Overview Cheoah Point Campground lies on a peninsula of the vast Lake Santeetlah in the hills of western North Carolina. The lake and surrounding landscape provide countless recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Recreation Anglers enjoy fishing for trout, walleye, a variety of bass, bream and crappie and more in the 2,800-acre Lake Santeetlah. Boating, canoeing, jet skiing and swimming are also popular activities on the lake. Nearby, the Wauchecha Bald Trail, which begins as a an ea
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented. Visitors may explore other natural areas or trails in the region.
Wildlife
The area may host typical North Carolina wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Kennedy Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Kennedy Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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