Upper Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Upper Falls
Upper Falls is a scenic waterfall located near Rocky Mount, North Carolina. It is a relatively small waterfall that offers a peaceful natural setting, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking a quick outdoor escape.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 69 feet along the Tar River, in the coastal lowlands of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Details about the trail leading to Upper Falls are not well-documented. It may involve a short walk or hike, but specific trail conditions and features are unknown.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural environment with a small waterfall. The area may be suitable for a quick visit or a peaceful retreat, but amenities and trail conditions are not well-documented.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Upper Falls can be visited year-round, but spring and fall may offer the best scenery due to seasonal foliage and water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the water's edge.
Current Water Conditions
47 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 50 years of record
2.93 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TAR RIVER AT NC 97 AT ROCKY MOUNT, NC (2 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
51 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
67 cfs
3/10Mon
Barely Flowing
51 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
51 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
50 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
53 cfs
5/10Best window: Mon — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early 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 Rocky Mount 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 3-meter lidar measures about 26 feet of drop through Upper Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 69 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 28 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 9 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
- 69 feet
- Measured by 3-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 26 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 located approximately 0.4 miles from Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The coordinates for the waterfall are 35.961, -77.8036. Access may involve a short walk from a nearby parking area, but specific details about the trail or road access are unclear.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is not well-documented. Visitors should check local resources or contact nearby parks for guidance.
Elevation
69 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.960988° N, -77.803590° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check local weather conditions before visiting. Bring appropriate footwear in case the trail is uneven or muddy. Verify access and parking options in advance.
Where to Stay
Tru By Hilton Rocky Mount, Nc
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Rocky Mount, NC
Holiday Inn Rocky Mount I-95 @ US 64 by IHG
Residence Inn by Marriott Rocky Mount
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Rocky Mount, Dortches, and Sharpsburg are nearby towns that may offer additional recreational or dining options.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical North Carolina wildlife such as birds, small mammals, and insects. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings.
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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