Chimney Rock State Park is located in Rutherford County, North Carolina. Covering 32.43 square kilometres, the park is about 40km southeast of Asheville. It is a paradise for nature lovers, with spectacular scenery and peaceful hiking trails. The park is also home to Hickory Nut Falls, which appeared in the epic movie The Last of the Mohicans. Standing 123 metres tall, it is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. We hiked a 2.4km return trail to see the waterfall from the viewing area. Starting from the parking area, you can reach it by following a trail of about 0.7 miles one way. The waterfall is very tall, at over 120 metres, although the water flow is not very large. It looks like a thin veil drifting down the tall, smooth rock face, making it a very beautiful waterfall.
Hickory Nut Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Hickory Nut Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Hickory Nut Falls famous?
Hickory Nut Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River at 404 feet and was featured in the 1992 film The Last of the Mohicans during the famous final battle scene. The falls is the centerpiece of Chimney Rock State Park and a iconic natural landmark in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Can you swim at Hickory Nut Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Hickory Nut Falls. The waterfall is viewed from designated lookout areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Hickory Nut Falls?
Dogs are not allowed at Chimney Rock State Park, which includes Hickory Nut Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Hickory Nut Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Park entry fee applies. Admission includes access to all trails and attractions within Chimney Rock State Park. Please check the official website for current pricing. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Hickory Nut Falls?
Parking is available at the main Chimney Rock State Park lot near the entrance. Parking is included with park admission. The lot can fill during peak season weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Hickory Nut Falls?
About 1.2 km / 0.75 miles one-way (2.4 km / 1.5 miles return) from the main park plaza to the falls base via the Hickory Nut Falls Trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Hickory Nut Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. The trail gains approximately 200 meters elevation with some stairs and rocky sections, but is well-maintained and marked. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Hickory Nut Falls?
Spring (March-May) and after heavy rainfall for the most impressive water flow. Fall (October-November) offers colorful foliage along the trails. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Hickory Nut Falls
From the main plaza near the ticket office, take the Hickory Nut Falls Trail which begins as a paved path and becomes a forest trail. The route includes stairs and boardwalk sections. Follow signs for Hickory Nut Falls through the wooded gorge. The trail ends at a viewing platform at the base of the 404-foot waterfall. Return via the same route or connect to other park trails.
Hickory Nut Falls official website
Attractions near Hickory Nut Falls
- •Chimney Rock - iconic 315-foot granite monolith with panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge
- •Lake Lure - scenic mountain lake offering boating, swimming, and beach access
- •Rumbling Bald Mountain - hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities
- •Blue Ridge Parkway - scenic drive approximately 30 minutes away with mountain vistas
- •Bat Cave - small mountain community and ecological area near the park entrance
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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Linville Falls
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Triple-tier falls in the Blue Ridge Parkway.