Mingo Falls
North Carolina • 120 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
160 ft
About Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls drops a dramatic 120 feet into a rocky gorge just outside the town of Cherokee in Swain County, North Carolina. Nestled within the Qualla Boundary — the land trust of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and part of the Eastern Cherokee Reservation managed by tribal authorities — the waterfall is one of the tallest in the southern Appalachian (Blue Ridge) Mountains and offers a striking, photogenic cascade that draws day hikers and photographers alike. Access is short but rewarding: a well-maintained 0.4-mile out-and-back path climbs roughly 160 feet and culminates at a viewing bridge at the base of the falls. The trail is considered moderate due to its steep stairs and grade; it can be slippery after rain, so bring good footwear. For campers, Smokemont Group Camp is nearby (about 4.6 km), making Mingo Falls an easy day trip from established camping in the area.
The Setting
Mingo Falls sits at 2,602 feet within Eastern Cherokee Reservation, fed by the Oconaluftee River, in the hills of North Carolina. At 120 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in North Carolina.
Height: 120 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Flat Creek Falls (200 ft) lies 5.9 miles to the east. Also nearby: Grotto Falls (25 ft, 13.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 0.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 160 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Mingo Falls is a short 0.4-mile out-and-back that gains about 160 feet in elevation and is rated moderate. Much of the approach consists of a steep staircase—approximately 160 steps—that leads down to (or up from) a viewing bridge at the base of the falls. The path is well-maintained but can become slick when wet, so expect a steep grade and bring traction-conscious footwear; the route is brief but strenuous in spots due to the stair section.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 120 feet. 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 Mingo Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mingo Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Mingo Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience with potential for icy formations.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The steps can be slippery, especially after rain. Exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear. Stay on the trail and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
1,560 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 78 years of record
3.14 ft
Water depth at gauge
67°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display. Water temperature is a refreshing 67 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect very murky conditions with low visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 6.8 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Very murkyVery low visibility
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 OCONALUFTEE RIVER AT BIRDTOWN, NC (11 km away).
Today
Roaring
898 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
948 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
957 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
933 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
939 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
921 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
930 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, chance showers and thunderstorms then slight chance showers and thunderstorms (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid 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 Cherokee hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mingo Falls is located off Big Cove Road, approximately 5 miles from downtown Cherokee, North Carolina. Visitors can access the falls by parking at the Mingo Falls Campground and following the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,602 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.532044° N, -83.274595° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the steps can be steep and slippery. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls.
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With 0.4 miles and 160 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Great Smokies Inn - Cherokee
Harrah's Cherokee, A Caesars Destination
Cherokee Grand Hotel
Cozy Smoky Mtn Cabin Pointing to Fun and Relaxation
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
SMOKEMONT GROUP CAMP
2.9 miles away · 3 sites
Overview Situated in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this sunny group camp offers an ideal setting for camping excursions. Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian culture, this is America's most visited national park.Recreation Great Smoky Mountai
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cherokee, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cherokee, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Oconaluftee Indian Village, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of snakes and other natural hazards.
Cities near Mingo Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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