The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. The trail starts at the gate that chained and says Do Not Block, Hands down; it was a dream! The trail was recently constructed in 2013 and is a model for exceptional trail design: rustic bridges were hewn from huge fallen hemlock, scores of rough-chiseled rock stairs and twisted log stair railings were all sourced on site, from the surrounding forest. High Falls Height: 120 feet Also known as Cullowhee Falls, this waterfall is just below the Lake Glenville Dam. High Falls (or Cullowhee Falls) is located just below the dam for Lake Glenville on the West Fork Tuckasegee River near Cashiers in Jackson County. The waterfall’s flow varies greatly – from barely a trickle in dry seasons, to an impressive and beautiful normal flow, and to an enormous display of whitewater on dam release days. AMAZING!!! Finished the hike, and have energy and daylight left? Dec 13, 2019 - Hike to the stunning High Falls waterfall at Lake Glenville, exploring the West Fork Tuckasegee Gorge through a beautiful forest near of Cashiers, NC. High Falls Trail Hiking Trail, Cullowhee, North Carolina A short but steep hike from Lake Glenville down to High Falls. Clad in spray skirt and shoes more suitable for river running than trail hiking, they negotiate the path carrying everything they’ll need to battle class IV rapids. The last ten minutes to the major falls is scrambling over rocks. Please note, the hike out is strenuous. Jun 5, 2019 - See thunderous High Falls (Cullowhee Falls) at Lake Glenville near Cashiers, NC, on a prescribed recreational flow day. The trail to High Falls was built for the kayakers, however, the primary users are hikers who want to see the falls. In addition to the Swamp Rabbit Trail and expansive trail network near downtown Greenville, there are walking and biking paths in other parks throughout the city. © 2014 - 2020 Trailful Outdoor Co. // Made in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Park along the road shoulder. Around the 85% mark, there were some downed trees from a recent storm. But so many boulders to climb on at the Falls, Beautiful and relaxing hike, so many great views! Well maintained trail with some really wet spots but nothing really sloppy. Let's work together to keep these fantastic trails maintained and open for use! The trail meanders under a massive, towering, mossy rock outcrop before making its final descent to the waterfall. The trail here is less than 1/4 mile both ways and really easy, making this a walk for most anyone. Follow the trail back to the old roadbed and stay left until you return to the 4-way junction described above. It is just under 4 miles round trip and you are treated to 2 different water falls along the trail. I think on a weekend or busy day it would be frustrating because the trail is pretty narrow and slow going in places. Overall a high recommend on my list. There are two spectacular falls here, the first of which we almost missed as the laurels are pretty heavy. You’ll descend on the gravel road for just under 0.2 mile, then turn right on the obvious trail. It becomes the most powerful waterfall in the North Carolina mountains for several days each year when extra water is … The hike trails the river downstream, descending more stone stairs and crossing a bridge made from wide-trunked hemlock. this trail is manageable. Stay straight and ascend the trail back to the parking lot. It becomes a stunningly powerful waterfall when the … High Falls hike trail (Lake Glenville) Downtown Sylva NC (Historic town) © 2014 - 2020 Trailful Outdoor Co. // Made in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail is remarkable, the forest is beautiful, and the waterfall itself is incredibly beautiful. View photos, see new listings, compare properties and get information on open houses. The first 0.15 miles of trail follow a gravel road along the lake shore. Then, make a very sharp left turn onto Shoal Creek Mountain Road (SR 1158). While this trail is rated as moderate, I would rate it as easy. Please refer to the official trail map for the most current and accurate route. The trail veers to the west at .25 miles, descending stone stairs and catching the first sights and sounds of the nearby West Fork Tuckasegee. Sapphire, NC Chattooga Trail Mountain Rest, SC Lower Whitewater Falls and Coon Branch Natural Area Salem, SC Devils Fork State Park Salem, SC Oconee State Park Mountain Rest, SC Lee Falls Tamassee, SC Salem, SC Trail had many muddy stretches due to rain feom yesterday. High Falls (Cullowhee) at Glenville Lake, NC - YouTube Deep plunge to bottom of falls with a drop of 650 feet in 3/4 mile. Super fun and fall ready! Walk behind the enormous cascades at Dry Falls. The hike drops over 500 feet elevation from trailhead to the waterfall, and though sections are moderately steep, the trail’s extended stretches of stone stairs make the climb back out of the gorge relatively straightforward (but a great workout). It’s one of North Carolina’s most beautiful falls and a must-see for visitors to nearby Highlands and Cashiers. This map shows our approximate route while exploring this trail, but does not replace an official trail map. There are areas on the trail that are very muddy so wear the right shoes. For more info on kayaking the West Fork Tuckasegee, see the guide at American Whitewater. It’s an almost unrelenting climb of over 500 feet elevation – and a great (but short) workout. My favorite hike was High Falls trail near the north end of Lake Glenville. The trail itself is well traveled and therefore very easy to navigate. Departing the waterfall, the hike retraces its steps to the trailhead. Duke Energy recently did a ton of work to create a public trail down to this stunning natural wonder. High Falls Trail at Lake Glenville: the hike The hike departs from a parking area near the lake’s shore (view maps and driving directions), following a wide gravel road eastbound. Step by step. Descend into a rocky, rugged gorge on the shore of Lake Glenville to the tumbling cascades at High Falls. Ascend the trail on the East side of the summit to Schoolhouse Falls. 104 homes for sale in Glenville, NC priced from $109,000 to $6,750,000. The trail starts at a gate. The moderate part of the trail is a bit of a scramble if you want to get a closer view of the falls (A little bit past the endpoint on the map.) Silver Run Falls Directions: From intersection of NC 107 and US 64 take 107 S. approx. Loved this trail! only difficult part is last few hundred yards. Important note - it is on private property but the owner allows others to use it respectfully. steep! Stay on the marked trail, tell someone where you're going, pack safety and wayfinding essentials, and don't rely on a mobile phone to find your way. The falls were absolutely spectacular, plus there is another fall off to your right about two thirds of the way to the main falls. Awsome hike with water release today. Follow the Rainbow Falls Trail at Gorges State Park to a series of enormous falls on the Horsepasture River. It is a powerful, thundering sight. Length 3.7 miElevation gain 446 ftRoute type Out & back Both falls were impressive. Accessible only by boat these beautiful falls are majestic and serene. Not crowded at all! Def a moderate trail but never an incline too crazy. Trailful Outdoor Co. is a registered trademark of Summit19 Studio LLC.Privacy Policy | Terms of Use No photo, illustration, data, or text on this website may be reproduced, published, or distributed without prior written permission and license. LOCATION:near Highlands and Cashiers, NC at Lake Glenville, PACK:our Osprey day pack and our hiking gear list, OFFICIAL MAP: Nat Geo 785 Trails Illustrated Map (find it at Trailful Outdoor Co.). Just north of Cashiers, on the northern banks of Lake Glenville, the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River pours over a 100+ foot cliff, tumbling in a dramatic multi-tiered waterfall and plunging into a boulder-filled pool below. I went on a weekday and was the only person on the trail so I was able to take my time. It’s all down hill, and this means getting back to your vehicle is all uphill. The difficulty of the trail’s construction is readily apparent – and yet, the efforts seem to seamlessly blend in with the surrounding forest, as if they were always there. Note: slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous! The “it” was the dam release which transforms the normally placid High Falls at Lake Glenville into its thundering cataract alter ego. VISIT OUR SHOP ABOUT US OUR STORY CONTACT US. And check out the full list of our favorite Highlands and Cashiers hiking trails for even more adventures. The trail descends a little over 0.6 mile to the falls. Did you have trouble accessing the trail, or notice some recent trail updates or storm damage? The hike departs from a parking area near the lake’s shore (view maps and driving directions), following a wide gravel road eastbound. Hike to the gorgeous falls at nearby Gorges State Park, including the massive Rainbow Falls waterfall on the Horsepasture River. Until just recently, it was only accessible through private land. If you want to get close to the falls, make sure you have good grip shoes. Always leave no trace, pack out everything you pack in, and if you see trash, pick it up and pack it out. Follow a short path to the towering, 400-foot falls at Whitewater Falls. Along the road, you’ll spot climbing vines and rhododendron shrubs. Triple Falls is about 100 feet downhill from the last junction, and you can use that trail to make a nice, short loop hike which includes High and Triple Falls. colong7034 412 subscribers Kayakers at High Falls on the West Fork of the Tuckasegee River, Glenville, NC Near Cullowhee, North Carolina. don't miss the other waterfall! It is well graded and easy to follow but is steep in places and has lots of steps. Super slippery. We had to climb over them and the trail was a little unclear for a short distance. The hike passes a small, just-barely-in-sight waterfall at .6 mile, following warnings to stay on the marked High Falls Trail. Easy ups and downs. The smaller of the falls is about two-thirds of the way in. With more than 6 Greenville trails covering 13 miles, you’re bound to find a perfect trail like the South Tar River Greenway or Princeville Heritage Trail. Easy walk, quite a few people out there. To inspire others to get fit outdoors and explore the South’s incredible scenic beauty. Learn about these paths and navigate your way around Greenville by The waterfall pours over the towering cliff above, cascading in multiple streams of whitewater. He's the co-owner of Trailful Outdoor Co, a locally-owned hiking outfitter shop in Hiawassee in the Georgia mountains near the Appalachian Trail. Eric Champlin is a creative director and photographer who loves to explore southeast. Part of the reason was to open up the river below this waterfall for kayaking. The “hustle” is a three-quarter-mile trail from the gravel lot to the base of the falls. This stretch of the river is popular with kayakers on release days, a 5.5 mile stretch of whitewater with Class III – IV rapids after a Lake Glenville Dam release. He’s also the co-founder of Atlanta Trails and Asheville Trails, digital magazines that highlight the South’s best outdoor adventures. Sign Up or Log In The trail from the top of High Falls is less than a mile with an elevation change of over 600 feet. 3/4 of the way there many trees are down and blocking the trail but it’s not too hard to get through them. Some muddy spots and trees down but all passable and lovely. Gorgeous trail! Hire a guide such as Lake Glenville Waterfall Cruises to give you a tour of all four or rent a boat and explore on your own – both Signal Ridge Marina and Lakeshore Marina offer rentals. Worth every step. His mission? The most beautiful falls and the trail runs along the river much of the way. The total length of the trail is 0.70 mile from the trailhead to the kayak put-in at the base of the falls. We loved this trail. Worth every step.Mt, Siyeh. Went on a Sunday and it was pretty busy. As of November 17, 2020 it has been user reported that there are numerous downed trees that require climbing over or under along this route. When flowing at full force, this is one of the most impressive falls in the area. there was a small wooden path that was damaged but passable. From the upper trailhead, the hike begins at the gate on High Falls Trail. Few muddy spots but doable. The waterfall is gorgeous, fully photo-worthy, and worth the visit. Please don’t climb, stand on, swim near, or jump from any waterfall. Leathery-leafed and gnarled-trunk rhododendron line the trail, and thick vines chase sunlight in the forest canopy above, climbing tall deciduous trees. Explore the best trails in Greenville, North Carolina on TrailLink. The steep trail to the bottom of High Falls offers a a challenge and great reward. Mooney Falls - Highlands NC A .6 mile drive up the road from Laural Falls you'll hear this waterfall before the turn out. Was concerned when we got there that we were in the wrong place but the directions given by AllTrails is correct. In 300 feet, the trail to High Falls begins on the right behind an orange gate. The hike veers northbound, departing the gravel road at.15 mile, diving into the forest. Please support them by making a donation or joining a volunteer day. It follows a tranquil section of the Little River on a gentle grade downstream, before climbing just a bit up to its end at the north intersection with the Triple Falls trail. 4.3 mi. Scattered boulders at the base of the trail make a perfect place to gaze at the falls and soak up the beauty of the surrounding gorge and forest. I will be coming back for sure, Cole Mountain and Shortoff Mountain via Yellow Mountain Trail, Whiteside Mountain National Recreation Trail, Mac's Gap to Devil's Elbow and Panthertown Valley Loop Trail, Lower Long Branch, Upper Long Branch, Little Savannah Connector, and Gribble Gap Loop, High Falls Trail via Ralph J Andrews Park, Granny Burrell Falls, Frolictown Falls, and Wilderness Falls via Panthertown Valley, Panthertown Valley Trail to Big Green Mountain Loop, Panthertown Valley Trail to Mac's Gap Trail Loop, Little Savannah Connector (Green) and Gibble Gap (Orange) Loop, Blackrock Mountain, Little Green Mountain, and Big Green Mountain Loop, Packs Creek and Falls [CLOSED / PRIVATE PROPERTY], Bear Creek Access Area - Flat Creek Falls, Frolictown Falls and Granny Burrell Falls via Deep Gap and Panthertown Valley. The hike is a total of 4 miles & I won’t lie coming back up from the waterfall it truly kicks your butt! Diving from the lake’s banks deep into a rocky, forested gorge, the trail treks through some beautiful terrain. There is a large pool at the end of the falls great for fishing or swimming (in some spots) and if the water is not too high some sandbars will ALL PHOTOS ARE COPYRIGHT ERIC CHAMPLIN OR SUMMIT19 STUDIO LLC. glad I brought poles. It’s not hard, especially if you know how to pace yourself. High Falls (sometimes called Cullowhee Falls) is located below the dam on Lake Glenville. A slight wind carries the waterfall’s spray through the deeply cut gorge – especially refreshing on a warm summer day. The trail is listed as “moderate” on several trail sites online, but it’s a steep one. Free parking is available at the trailhead. This trail is maintained thanks to the hard work of countless volunteers and donations from supporters of the National Forest Foundation. All rights reserved. We’ve loved hiking this route with our trail-loving Labrador Retrievers! High Falls ,Glenville, NC 28736, USA interchange in Asheville, NC, take I-40 west about 18 miles to Exit 27 for the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway, US 74/19/23 toward Waynesville. You park on the side of the road and the trail is not marked however it is obvious as it is a wide trail (almost an old road) for much of it. Such a beautiful, breath taking place. You don’t need And before you go, always check the trailhead kiosk, official maps, and the park or ranger office for notices of changed routes, trail closures, safety information, and restrictions. The hike veers northbound, departing the gravel road at .15 mile, diving into the forest. the rocks were slippery and there were a few loose ones here and there. The trail continues on past the falls, but it should be clear which falls are Granny Burrell. Hike to the stunning High Falls waterfall at Lake Glenville, descending into the West Fork Tuckasegee Gorge on a moderately challenging adventure through a beautiful, lush forest near Cashiers. High above Cracker Lake. High Falls is a 2.8 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Sapphire, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Contact us here, and thanks for helping us keep this site updated! The trail begins its steepest descent at .5 mile, climbing down an extended stretch of stone stairs and swinging through switchbacks. High Falls Trail is a 3.7 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Glenville, North Carolina that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. Overall a very peaceful hike along the river. We did around 4 miles total. Nice hike, well maintained. Toward the end there are a bunch of trees down, just go over them -the trail continues. The course is six miles long, narrow and challenging, and is recommended for advanced paddlers only. We'd love to know! This waterfall is in two main drops: the upper is a rounded cascade which transitions into a plunge, while the lower splits into a couple of plunges as it falls over a craggy ledge. Hike through the incredibly scenic Panthertown Valley to the beautiuful single-drop cascade at Schoolhouse Falls. 35.198550, -83.159517     //     N35 11.913 W83 09.571. Before you go, check for seasonal trail and road closures on the USFS Nantahala National Forest site. my knees were not thrilled about the path down. Please always practice good trail etiquette. The trail is primarily used for hiking and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Its steps to the towering summit of Whiteside Mountain in Highlands please support them by making a donation joining! Copyright eric Champlin is a three-quarter-mile trail from the top of High Falls was built for kayakers! 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