Upper Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in North Carolina, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is part of the Graveyard Fields area in the Pisgah National Forest, a popular hiking destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 5,348 feet within Pisgah National Forest, in the high mountains of North Carolina.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Second Falls (50 ft) lies 1.3 miles to the east. Also nearby: Dill Falls (50 ft, 4.9 mi) and Courthouse Falls (45 ft, 3.6 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Upper Falls (#TR358A), a 3.3-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
UPPER FALLS #TR358A
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.94 miTrail Description
The trail to Upper Falls begins at the Graveyard Fields Trailhead and follows a well-maintained path through a mix of open meadows and forested areas. The trail includes some rocky and uneven sections, as well as a few stream crossings. Hikers will pass Lower Falls before continuing to Upper Falls, which is less crowded and offers a more secluded experience.
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 Upper Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage. Winter visits may provide a quieter experience but could include icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Pisgah National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious on slippery rocks near the waterfall. Watch for changing weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly in the mountains. Carry a map or GPS, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
19 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 72 years of record
0.76 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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 bracing 59 degrees F, limit your time 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 W F PIGEON R ABOVE LAKE LOGAN NR HAZELWOOD, NC (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
21 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
21 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Brevard 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 136 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,352 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 102 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,352 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 136 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Falls is accessed via the Graveyard Fields Trailhead, located at Milepost 418.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trailhead is well-marked and includes a parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at the Graveyard Fields Trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
5,348 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.318162° N, -82.867353° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially after rain, as the trail can be muddy and slippery. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
This trail sits at 5,348 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 21% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 3.3 miles and 500 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
Hampton Inn Brevard
Comfort Inn & Suites Brevard North
Holiday Inn Express - Brevard by IHG
Foxhunt at Sapphire Valley
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
COVE CREEK LOWER GROUP CAMP
3.1 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Cove Creek Lower Group Camp is one of two group campsites nestled along Cove Creek in the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains in western North Carolina. The facility can accommodate large groups of up to 60 people and offers year-round opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and picnicking in one of the most scenic areas in the state.Recreation Campers can easily relax with a book or deck of cards in the shaded camping area, or seek out activities close by. The area is a
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Cashiers, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Cashiers, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lower Falls, Graveyard Fields Loop Trail, and the Blue Ridge Parkway scenic overlooks.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and occasionally black bears. Be cautious and store food securely.
Cities near Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Upper Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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