The best waterfalls in Pisgah Forest

Looking Glass Falls is located within Pisgah National Forest, and is less than a 30-minute drive from the previous two waterfalls.

I highly recommend this waterfall for two reasons. First, it is located right by the roadside, so you can reach it without any hiking. Second, it is extremely beautiful, with water cascading directly down a rock cliff in a very graceful flow. Among all the waterfalls we visited today, this one is definitely the most visually stunning.

In addition, Pisgah National Forest itself is also worth noting. Around 1900, George Vanderbilt, the builder of the Biltmore Estate, acquired this land and initiated scientific study and conservation of the forest. It is considered the birthplace of forestry in the United States.

Sliding Rocks is a spot specifically for sliding down natural rock formations. In autumn, there is no entrance fee, but because it’s free, the restroom is also closed. Still, there are a lot of people there.

I changed into my swimsuit right by the forest. The creek water was about 55°F, and it felt extremely cold and biting on the skin.

Everyone moved quickly, and before I had even mentally prepared myself, it was my turn in line. The rock surface is already very smooth, so you slide down really fast. Once you enter the water, the adrenaline kicks in immediately.

We couldn’t waste the 25°C weather at the end of December. The kids and their dad ended up hiking straight through the river again—the mountain water was absolutely freezing!

Hooker Falls is located in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, United States. Wide veil falls popular for swimming. Visit guide and safety information will be added soon.

High Falls Trail, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

This seems like a relatively lesser-known trail in DuPont State Forest, but the waterfall itself is quite spectacular. Even at the end of November, the water flow was still strong.

Doing the loop and viewing the waterfall from the overlook is quite easy and relaxed. However, if you go down to the base, you’ll need proper non-slip hiking shoes. The area at the bottom of the falls had a noticeable smell, a bit like manure, but the scenery was still worth it overall—definitely recommended.