Laughing Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Laughing Falls
Laughing Falls sits tucked inside Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are a quietly picturesque cascade set among forested slopes, making it a popular short outing for hikers and photographers wanting a peaceful stop amid classic Pisgah woodlands. The hike to the falls is an approachable adventure — an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Access to Laughing Falls uses USFS routing, including a short stretch along GRASSY ROAD (USFS Trail TR364). That designated segment is recorded as a 0.08-mile portion of native-material tread and is classed by the Forest Service as Class 3. If you’re planning an overnight, the Black Mountain / South Toe River Area campground is nearby (about 2.23 km), making it convenient to combine this stop with a campsite in Pisgah National Forest.
The Setting
Laughing Falls sits at 2,365 feet within Pisgah National Forest, fed by the Davidson River, in the hills of North Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
High Falls (150 ft) lies 4.2 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Looking Glass Falls (60 ft, 3.7 mi) and Slick Rock Falls (30 ft, 5.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Grassy Road (#TR364), a 2.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
GRASSY ROAD #TR364
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.08 miTrail Description
Out-and-back, approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain; rated moderate. The route follows native-material tread (USFS surface: NATIVE MATERIAL) and includes a short USFS-designated segment — GRASSY ROAD, Trail #TR364 — listed at 0.08 miles and Class 3 by the Forest Service. Expect natural dirt tread with intermittent rocky or uneven sections and occasional roots; the Class 3 section may feel rougher and more rooted underfoot. Good hiking footwear and basic trail experience are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by dense greenery. The area is ideal for photography, picnics, and enjoying the sounds of nature. The trail may be muddy after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Laughing Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Laughing Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Laughing Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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 exercise caution on slippery rocks near the waterfall and be aware of changing weather conditions. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
38 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
0.58 ft
Water depth at gauge
56°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a bracing 56 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DAVIDSON RIVER NEAR BREVARD, NC (2 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
38 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
38 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
37 cfs
4/10Best 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.
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 215 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 2,373 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 231 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 144 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,373 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 215 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
Laughing Falls is located within a forested area in North Carolina. Specific directions may vary depending on the trailhead used, so it is recommended to consult local maps or AllTrails for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is not well-documented, but visitors may find parking near the trailhead. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,365 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.294836° N, -82.701792° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Check weather conditions before your visit.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Brevard
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Pilot Cove
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
Black Mountain / South Toe River Area
1.4 miles away · 0 sites
The South Toe River area is on the Appalachian Ranger District near Burnsville, NC. This area includes the Black Mountains, the Blue Ridge, and the headwaters of the South Toe River. The Black Mountains, capped with a forest of red spruce and Fraser fir, are named for the resulting dark color. Along the South Toe River, you can camp, picnic, fish, swim, tube, bike, and horseback ride.
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Asheville, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Asheville, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Laughing Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Laughing Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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