Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located in North Carolina. It is known for its serene surroundings and relatively easy access, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking a peaceful nature experience.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 59 feet along the Tar River, in the coastal lowlands of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Little Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path is well-maintained but may be muddy after rain.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but it may be busier.
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 weather conditions, as heavy rain may make the trail muddy or hazardous.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TAR RIVER AT NC 97 AT ROCKY MOUNT, NC (1 km away).
Today
Low
63 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
63 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
66 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
54 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
55 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
47 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
54 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early 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 Rocky Mount 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 3-meter lidar measures about 24 feet of drop through Little Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 58 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 16 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, 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
- 58 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 24 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Falls is located within a natural area in North Carolina. Specific directions may vary depending on the starting point, but it is typically accessed via local roads leading to a nearby trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
59 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.959043° N, -77.780811° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery after rain. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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
Tru By Hilton Rocky Mount, Nc
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rocky Mount, NC
Holiday Inn Rocky Mount I-95 @ US 64 by IHG
Residence Inn by Marriott Rocky Mount
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions may include local hiking trails and scenic viewpoints in the surrounding area.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife typical of North Carolina forests.
Cities near Little Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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