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.
Looking Glass Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Looking Glass Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Looking Glass Falls famous?
Looking Glass Falls is one of the most photographed and easily accessible waterfalls in North Carolina, famous for its roadside location along the scenic US-276 corridor in Pisgah National Forest. The 60-foot cascading waterfall plunges into a large pool and is beloved for its year-round flow and convenient viewing platform at its base.
Can you swim at Looking Glass Falls?
No, swimming is not allowed at Looking Glass Falls due to dangerous currents and safety hazards. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Looking Glass Falls?
Dogs are allowed on-leash in Pisgah National Forest, including at Looking Glass Falls viewing area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Looking Glass Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free - no entrance fee or permit required to visit Looking Glass Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Looking Glass Falls?
There is a paved parking area directly off US Highway 276 with space for approximately 20-30 vehicles. Parking is free. The waterfall is visible from the roadside parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Looking Glass Falls?
Roadside waterfall - no hike required. A short paved path and stairs lead from the parking area down to the base viewing platform, approximately 50 meters. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Looking Glass Falls hike difficulty
Roadside (no hike) - accessible via short paved walkway and stairs from parking area; stairs may be challenging for some mobility levels. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Looking Glass Falls?
Spring (March–May) and after heavy rainfall for peak flow and most dramatic cascades; fall (October–November) offers beautiful foliage. Summer can have lower flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Looking Glass Falls
From the parking area along US-276, follow the short paved walkway that leads to a staircase descending to the base of the falls. The stairs take you to a viewing platform at the bottom where you can see the 60-foot cascade up close. The return is back up the same stairs to the parking area.
Looking Glass Falls official website
Attractions near Looking Glass Falls
- •Sliding Rock - Natural water slide in Davidson River, 2.5 miles north of Looking Glass Falls
- •Moore Cove Falls - 50-foot waterfall with walk-behind access, about 3 miles south on US-276
- •Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education - Educational center with exhibits about local ecology and wildlife
- •Blue Ridge Parkway - Scenic mountain parkway with numerous overlooks, accessible nearby
- •Brevard - Charming mountain town known as 'Land of Waterfalls,' about 5 miles away
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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More to explore nearby
Dry Falls
Highlands, North Carolina
Walk behind this 75-foot waterfall.
Sliding Rock
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
Natural 60-foot rock waterslide.
Linville Falls
Linville, North Carolina
Triple-tier falls in the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Hooker Falls
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
Wide veil falls popular for swimming.