Reems Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Reems Creek Falls
Reems Creek Falls is a tucked-away cascade in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, surrounded by lush, mature hardwood forest. This lesser-known spot rewards visitors with a peaceful setting and good photo ops without the crowds — the approach is short but scenic, making it a popular choice for hikers seeking a quiet mountain escape. The waterfall is reached via a moderate out-and-back trail that climbs roughly 350 feet over the round trip. The hike’s length and gentle elevation make it accessible to most reasonably fit hikers; expect a forested approach with some uneven footing in places, so bring sturdy shoes and take your time to enjoy the woodland ambiance.
The Setting
Reems Creek Falls sits at 1,913 feet along the French Broad River, in the hills of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: Out-and-back Length: 2.4 miles (round trip) Elevation gain: ~350 feet Difficulty: Moderate Surface/conditions: Forest footpath through hardwoods with a generally gentle grade; the route is well-defined but can be uneven in spots (roots, rocks, and occasional short, steeper pitches). Sturdy footwear recommended. No official USFS trail number/name provided in available data.
What to Expect
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 Reems Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Reems Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, enhancing the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, so exercise caution. Always stay on marked paths to avoid getting lost or damaging the environment.
Current Water Conditions
629 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 130 years of record
0.95 ft
Water depth at gauge
63°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect slightly cloudy visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.1 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Water Clarity
Slightly cloudyMinor sediment present
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 FRENCH BROAD RIVER AT ASHEVILLE, NC (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
629 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
623 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
635 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
640 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
624 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
666 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
647 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 early May, 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 Weaverville 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 103 feet of descent through Reems Creek Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,897 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 66 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 67 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,897 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 103 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Reems Creek Falls is located near Weaverville, North Carolina. Access to the falls typically involves navigating forest roads and a short hike. Directions may vary depending on the trailhead used, so consulting a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located along forest roads or at small pull-offs near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,913 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.688443° N, -82.604297° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid any potential crowds and ensure parking availability. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail may be uneven. Check weather conditions before heading out, as rain can make the trail slippery.
Where to Stay
The Farmhouse at Wolfehaven
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Asheville Weaverville
GLo Hotel Asheville-Blue Ridge Parkway
Lantern Lodge - formerly The Residences at Biltmore
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
Lake Powhatan Glamping
14.4 miles away · 12 sites
Overview Located just minutes from the popular city of Asheville, North Carolina, Lake Powhatan Glamping is the perfect, all inclusive getaway. The campground is convenient to a variety of cultural and natural attractions, including art and music venues, shopping, breweries, restaurants, and scenic drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Onsite you'll enjoy numerous hiking and biking trails as well as lakeside recreational opportunities. Learn more to prepare for your trip HERE . The custom designed g
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 include the Blue Ridge Parkway, Weaverville, and other hiking trails in the Pisgah National Forest.
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 Reems Creek Falls
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