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 along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Upper Falls sits at 3,409 feet within Blue Ridge Parkway, fed by the South Toe River, in the mountains of North Carolina.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.3-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Falls begins at the Graveyard Fields Loop Trailhead. It features a mix of boardwalks, dirt paths, and rocky sections. The trail passes through lush forests and open meadows, with some moderate elevation gain. The final approach to the falls involves a rocky and uneven path, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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
The best time to visit is during late spring or early summer when the surrounding vegetation is lush and the water flow is strong. Fall is also a popular time due to the vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Watch your footing near the falls, as the rocks are often wet and slick. Be aware of changing weather conditions, as storms can develop quickly in the mountains.
Current Water Conditions
55 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
0.80 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SOUTH TOE RIVER NEAR CELO, NC (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
55 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
59 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
61 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
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 Spruce Pine 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: 1-meter lidar measures about 110 feet of drop through Upper Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 3,407 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 94 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 132 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,407 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 110 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
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
Upper Falls is accessed via the Graveyard Fields Loop Trail, located at Milepost 418.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The trailhead is well-marked, and the area is a popular stop for visitors traveling the parkway.
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
3,409 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.819012° N, -82.150831° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be strenuous in sections. Be prepared for muddy or slippery conditions, particularly after rain.
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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.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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
Apt with Wraparound Deck and Epic Views in Burnsville!
The Farmhouse at Wolfehaven
Ruth's Place Tiny Home Retreat 1 mile to town
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Marion by IHG
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
CAROLINA HEMLOCKS REC AREA
3.2 miles away · 39 sites
Overview Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area sits in the scenic mountains of Pisgah National Forest. This is a great place for small to medium-sized groups to swim, fish, tube, hike, camp, picnic and simply relax in the cool shade of the forest.Recreation The river provides endless hours of fun for families and water enthusiasts, including swimming and tubing. Anglers can also try their luck for trout and smallmouth bass from the shore. Picnickers will enjoy relaxing in the shaded picnic shelter se
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Swannanoa, North Carolina on SoakingSprings.
Explore North Carolina springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lower Falls, Graveyard Fields Loop Trail, and other scenic overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears, which are occasionally spotted in the region.
Cities near Upper Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Upper Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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