3 Breathtaking Waterfalls In North Carolina You Can Walk Behind & Are Open Year-Round

These views are a small hike away.

A person standing near the Dry Falls. Right: Dry Falls waterfall.

A person standing near the Dry Falls. Right: Dry Falls waterfall.

Florida Associate Editor

There are gorgeous cascading waterfalls all over North Carolina, and some you can actually walk behind to watch the scenic view from the rushing stream. These natural wonders are a short hike away and are absolutely breathtaking.

While some falls are hidden gems, others are as tall as 75 feet and are rather hard to miss. However, you won't have to find them alone. You can bring your four-legged friends to each trail.

These routes are open year-round no matter the season. You might see the water turn to icicles in the winter or the colorful trees turning bright reds and yellows during fall. No matter when you go, don't forget a jacket you don't mind getting a little wet.

Dry Falls

Price: $3/vehicle, $15 annual pass

When: Open year-round

Address: Highlands, NC

Why You Need To Go: This 75-foot beauty rushes over a large rock formation and has a gated trail to walk behind. It has a high visitor volume and is also pet-friendly.

However, it is important to be weary during the winter time as the slicked rocks might not look like there is ice on them, but they can be extremely slippery.

Website

Window Falls

When: Year-round

Address: Hanging Rock State Park

Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem got its name because it's tucked away behind a rock wall with a hole — or "window" — where you can see right through.

The falling streams aren't as heavy and make for the perfect IG backdrop for you to step behind. This is also a pet-friendly area.

Website

Moore Cove Falls

When: Open year-round

Address: Brevard, NC

Why You Need To Go: It's a short hike to see this fascinating sight that's about 50 feet tall. There's plenty of room for you to walk behind into a little grotto area.

You can sit and enjoy the rushing water or even walk around it.

Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Associate Editor

    Jenna Kelley (she/her) was the Associate Editor for Florida at Narcity Media, where she oversaw all of the editorial content across the Sunshine State. She started her career in broadcast media as a television news reporter for three years. In 2020, Jenna won a Georgia Association of Broadcasters (GABBY) award for Best Online Produced Story. She's covered live concerts, reported at the Masters Tournament, and interviewed state senators during election season. Prior to working at Narcity Media, she made her way home to Florida and launched a copywriting business. Jenna received her B.A. in English with a minor in Communications at Florida State University. She has over five years of experience from print and digital media to radio and television.

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