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There’s nothing like a natural waterfall to soothe our senses. No wonder folks who adore setting out on invigorating hikes near Asheville NC, search for cascading falls throughout the region.  Waterfalls are as individual as snowflakes–no two are alike, and their beauty is undeniable.  Whether the water takes the form of running rapids, or a gentle stream flow, the waterfalls of Western North Carolina are among the state’s glorious natural features. 

Have you ever noticed the calming effect when you stand by the ocean’s shore, lost in the salty spray while the pounding surf is all you can hear? For the same reason we love the sound of the ocean, indoor waterfalls have become a popular fixture in our homes. This is because the sound of cascading water, just like the sound of the ocean’s waves, is soothing to our senses.

We are incredibly fortunate in this region to be able to step from our mountain view cottages and take hikes near Asheville NC to any number of these uplifting waterfalls where we can experience the glorious sight, sound and mist in person. The spray from a waterfall is cooling and pure as the spray from the sea, and the sound of a natural waterfall is something you cannot buy.

Here are a few waterfalls of Western North Carolina to put on your list when planning your next hikes near Asheville NC:

Looking Glass Falls is named after nearby Looking Glass Rock; located off US 276 between Waynesville and Brevard, this is an easy 50-foot waterfall you can admire from the parking lot.  There’s a short flight of stairs if you’d like a closer peek.  This is a great excursion for little kids or the elderly who are unable to handle a longer hike.  Swimming in the pool beneath the falls is amazing fun and safe even for little ones.

Soco Falls is located off Highway 19 of the Blue Ridge Parkway between Maggie Valley and Cherokee.  This waterfall is known for being tucked away as well as being two falls in one!  Soco Falls is the perfect backdrop for your family photos.

Dry Falls also has easy access from the highway and is located in the Nantahala National Forest.  This waterfall joins a group along the Cullasaja River in an 8-mile stretch.  Visitors can stay somewhat dry while walking behind the falls but don’t count on that—the refreshing mist from Dry Falls can make London seem arid!

Linville Falls is closest to The Coves and is part of the National Park Service and boasts three waterfalls, two upper and one beneath with a forty-five foot drop.  This falls is right off the parkway at milepost 316.  There are a variety of trails to hike for all levels of endurance and a picnic area to enjoy after you work up that hearty appetite.

There are hundreds of waterfalls of Western North Carolina to visit.  Did you know we have four waterfalls at The Coves?

Those who live in mountain view cottages at The Coves Mountain River Club, know the ease and simplicity of stepping out of their front doors to explore the four cascading waterfalls along the gated community’s impeccably-groomed trails.

Grandfather Gorge Falls is a 50-foot-triple-tier falls with water that plunges down tremendous boulders and into a stunning pool.  Mila Cascading Falls is admired for its staircase effect that flows into the Johns River in the serenity of Mila Park.  Highland River Falls cascades through a hollow in the mountain, splashing into the Johns River.  And Penelope Cascading Falls is dynamically layered and 40 feet high with various splash pools. Of course these waterfalls and trails are graced with mountain laurel, azaleas, and other colorful flowers and a canopy of trees that provide shelter for many captivating birds at The Coves.

When you’re scoping out mountain view cottages, come visit us and be sure to bring your camera to capture the beauty of our waterfalls.

If you’re exploring the area for the first time, ask for our 70 page complimentary Western North Carolina Visitor’s Guide which provides more information about living in the foothills.