Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About The Cascades
The Cascades tumbles through a quiet pocket of the Blue Ridge Mountains at E.B. Jeffress Park, right along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Framed by mature hardwood forest, the falls drop in a series of stepped cascades and offer a photogenic ribbon of water year-round. The site sits on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the 469-mile scenic road managed by the National Park Service that links Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks, so it’s easy to visit as part of a longer parkway drive. A short hike brings you to multiple viewpoints that reveal different angles of the falls and the surrounding laurel- and rhododendron-lined valley. The setting is peaceful and shaded, making The Cascades a popular stop for hikers and photographers seeking a relatively accessible waterfall experience in the southern Blue Ridge.
The Setting
The Cascades sits at 2,549 feet along the Cove Creek, in the hills of North Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Hickorynut Falls (404 ft) lies 2.2 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Rainbow Falls (150 ft, 1.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Cascades trail is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Most of the route follows well-packed dirt tread punctuated by wooden steps and short steeper sections as it descends to the creek; the canopy keeps much of the walk shaded. Expect two developed viewing platforms near the water that provide different perspectives of the falls—good turnaround points before retracing your steps back to the trailhead.
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 The Cascades?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Cascades?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger in spring, and the fall foliage adds vibrant colors to the landscape.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the viewing platforms and stay on designated trails. The rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, especially after rain. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge COVE CREEK NEAR LAKE LURE, NC (15 km away).
Today
Low
63 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
60 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
77 cfs
4/10Sat
Moderate
77 cfs
4/10Sun
Moderate
75 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
68 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
72 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, 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 Chimney Rock Village hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The Cascades can be accessed via the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 271.9. Look for the E.B. Jeffress Park sign, where a parking area is available.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at E.B. Jeffress Park, which provides access to the trail leading to The Cascades.
Elevation
2,549 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.462337° N, -82.273728° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery near the waterfall, especially after rain. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. 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.
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
1850s Settlers Cabin at Wethero Ridge
Lake Lure Inn and Spa
Hampton Inn Black Mountain
The Farmhouse at Wolfehaven
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
CURTIS CREEK CAMPGROUND (NC)
15.4 miles away · 24 sites
Overview Curtis Creek Campground is nestled in the mountains at the base of the Blue Ridge just minutes from the quaint town of Old Fort and less than an hour from the popular city of Asheville. Located in the first tract of National Forest land in the eastern US at the site of an old Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) camp, the campground is surrounded by old growth forests and roaring trout streams. The gravel road through the campground ascends to the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing easy access to
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Chimney Rock Village, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Chimney Rock Village, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway scenic overlooks, Mount Jefferson State Natural Area, and Boone, NC.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for native plants and wildflowers along the trail.
Cities near The Cascades
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named The Cascades
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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