Triple Falls
North Carolina • 125 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.9 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Triple Falls
Triple Falls is a showpiece of DuPont State Forest — a dramatic three-tier cascade that drops about 125 feet as it tumbles over steep, mossy ledges. The falls are one of the forest’s most photographed features and, according to published sources, are the 125 ft Triple Falls in North Carolina; the setting of shaded hardwoods and granite outcrops makes for a classic Carolinas waterfall experience that rewards a short hike with layered viewpoints and close-up spray. Located within DuPont State Forest (designated as an SRMA; land owner listed as OTHS), Triple Falls is an inviting destination for day hikers and photographers. The trail network around the falls is well used and offers clear viewing areas and a built staircase that provides access to the middle tier, making it easy to enjoy multiple perspectives of the cascade.
The Setting
Triple Falls sits at 2,336 feet within Dupont State Forest, fed by the French Broad River, in the hills of North Carolina. At 125 feet, it is among the taller waterfalls in North Carolina.
Height: 125 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
High Falls (125 ft) lies 0.5 miles to the southeast. Also nearby: Bridal Veil Falls (120 ft, 1.5 mi) and Hooker Falls (12 ft, 0.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.9-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Distance: 2.9 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~300 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The hike to Triple Falls typically begins at the Hooker Falls parking area and follows a well-maintained forest trail that climbs moderately with some rocky sections underfoot. Expect a mix of gently graded tread through hardwood forest and short steeper pitches; the route is straightforward and well signed. Near the falls there is a developed viewing area and a staircase that allows closer access to the middle tier of the 125 ft cascade, so you can experience both sweeping panorama shots and intimate, up-close views.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 125 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 Triple Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Triple Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to pleasant weather and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but the trail 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 falls as rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas to avoid accidents. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
278 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 105 years of record
4.68 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 BLANTYRE, NC (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
278 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
288 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
282 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
285 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
276 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
286 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
294 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 Caesars Head 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 163 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The falls are listed at 125 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,335 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 211 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 50 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,335 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 163 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Triple Falls is located in DuPont State Recreational Forest, near Brevard, North Carolina. The trailhead can be accessed from the Hooker Falls parking area off Staton Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Hooker Falls parking area. It can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
2,336 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.199005° N, -82.617346° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery near the falls. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and holidays. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
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With 2.9 miles and 300 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
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Hampton Inn Brevard
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Oscar’s Hendo Retreat
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
SYCAMORE FLATS PICNIC SHELTER
7.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Sycamore Flats Picnic Shelter is located along the Davidson River on the Pisgah National Forest. This picnic area was named for the sycamore trees which line the banks of the river.The shelter is available on a first come, first served basis from mid-November to April 15th. Reservations are available April 16th through mid-November. Some amenities may not be available during the off-season. This is a popular destination with limited parking, please plan accordingly.Recreation Sycamore Fl
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Tryon, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Tryon, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Hooker Falls, High Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, all located within DuPont State Recreational Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also see wildflowers and native plants along the trail.
Cities near Triple Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Triple Falls
4 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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