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. The whole experience, including walking, taking photos, and going down to the base, took just over an hour. We left when it got dark, but there were still plenty of people heading in with kids, which was a bit surprising. We even saw a few people running up from the bottom of the falls and sitting there, even racing each other back and forth—it looked pretty risky. Further along, Triple Falls is also nearby and quite impressive when viewed from above. If you have time, it’s worth doing both together.
Triple Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Triple Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Triple Falls famous?
Triple Falls gained fame as a filming location for scenes in The Hunger Games movies, doubling as a backdrop in District 12. The three distinct tiers cascading through a lush forest gorge make it one of the most photographed waterfalls in DuPont State Recreational Forest.
Can you swim at Triple Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Triple Falls due to strong currents and dangerous conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Triple Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails in DuPont State Recreational Forest. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Triple Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entrance fee or permit required for DuPont State Recreational Forest. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Triple Falls?
Free parking available at the High Falls/Triple Falls trailhead parking area off Staton Road in DuPont State Recreational Forest. Spaces can fill quickly on weekends. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Triple Falls?
About 3.2 km / 2 miles round-trip from the High Falls trailhead, often combined with High Falls as a loop. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Triple Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. Rocky, rooted trail with some elevation changes and stream crossings; can be slippery when wet. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Triple Falls?
Spring (March–May) and after rainfall for peak water flow, or fall (October–November) for beautiful foliage and pleasant hiking temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Triple Falls
From the High Falls/Triple Falls parking area, follow signs toward Triple Falls. The trail descends through the forest with some rocky sections. You'll hear the falls before seeing them—the trail brings you to overlooks of the three-tiered cascade. The upper viewing area offers the best perspective of all three tiers. Use caution on wet rocks near viewpoints.
Triple Falls official website
Attractions near Triple Falls
- •High Falls — 120-foot waterfall, one of the tallest in DuPont Forest, short hike from parking
- •Hooker Falls — Easy roadside waterfall, popular swimming hole in DuPont Forest
- •Bridal Veil Falls — Delicate 120-foot waterfall accessible via moderate hike in DuPont
- •Looking Glass Falls — Iconic 60-foot roadside waterfall on US Highway 276 nearby
- •Brevard — Charming mountain town known as 'Land of Waterfalls,' 15 minutes 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.
Looking Glass Falls
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
Roadside waterfall in Pisgah National Forest.
Sliding Rock
Pisgah Forest, North Carolina
Natural 60-foot rock waterslide.
Linville Falls
Linville, North Carolina
Triple-tier falls in the Blue Ridge Parkway.