Let’s explore some of nature’s most breathtaking wonders through the enchanting landscapes of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arkansas: waterfalls.
From the majestic cascades of Crabtree Falls to the hidden gems of Yellow Branch Falls and the towering marvel of Hemmed-in Hollow Falls, each waterfall offers a glimpse into the raw beauty and power of the natural world.
But our adventure doesn’t stop there.
Along the way, we’ll discover charming towns and vibrant cities that serve as gateways to these stunning natural attractions.
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Join us as we travel through these unique and charming mountain towns: Asheville, Brevard, and Little Switzerland.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a nature enthusiast seeking your next adventure, this journey will sure inspire and captivate you.
Get ready to experience the magic of waterfalls and the charm of mountain towns with us on this unforgettable journey.
Connecting the waterfalls: Exploring Asheville, Brevard, and Little Switzerland
Our adventure takes us beyond the breathtaking waterfalls to discover gateways to these natural wonders.
Asheville, Brevard, and Little Switzerland are mountain towns that offer their own unique blend of culture, providing the perfect complement to our exploration of the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Asheville, North Carolina:
(Update: Asheville was impacted by Hurricane Helene on September 29, 2024. Some areas may be inaccessible, so please check for local updates before visiting.)
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has an eclectic mix of art, music, and outdoor recreation.
Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and thriving food scene, Asheville has much to offer.
Asheville stood out so much to me that I wrote a dedicated post about it: Artistic Asheville: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of the Blue Ridge.
Exploring Asheville’s Artistic Vibe:
One of the most memorable aspects of this trip was exploring the vibrant arts scene in Asheville.
We spent hours wandering through local galleries, admiring the work of talented artisans, and discovering unique pieces of art that spoke to us on a personal level.
From colorful paintings to intricate sculptures, Asheville’s artistic vibe left a lasting impression on us and inspired us to see the world through a new lens.
Following are some highlights of our art tour.
Lexington Glassworks:
Located at 81 S. Lexington Ave. A warehouse of house-made, one-of-a-kind handblown glass is displayed for sale, with “Owner’s Studio” in one corner, open for viewing.
The owners were kind enough to explain their process as they created functional art pieces, making each one unique and beautiful. While they don’t hold classes currently, witnessing their creativity in action was a highlight.
Woolworth Walk:
In the historic F.W. Woolworth building downtown, about 170 local artists’ creations are showcased.
With nearly 20,000 square feet, you can find jewelry, fine art, photography, apparel, decorative art, crafts, and furnitures.
It’s a delightful place to discover a wide range of artistic expressions.
Grovewood Gallery:
Located in Asheville’s historic Grovewood Village, this site once housed the weaving and woodworking operations of Biltmore Industries.
Alongside the gallery, the village is home to the Estes-Winn Antique Car Museum and the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum.
We were only able to visit the Grovewood Gallery due to different opening hours, but peeking through the car museum’s glass door made us want to return.
Luxurious Retreats and Historic Sites
The Omni Grove Park Inn
Since it’s opening on July 12, 1913, this luxurious resort has hosted ten US presidents.
With its massive granite boulders and red-tiled roof, the Grove Park Inn is perfectly situated with breathtaking views.
Fun fact: the end-of-season talent show scene in "Dirty Dancing" movie was shot on its outdoor terrace.
Biltmore Estates
America’s largest home built by George Vanderbilt, spans an 8,000-acre grand estate.
Although we chose not to visit due to the high costs, it’s a marvel of architecture located in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
For those who enjoy luxury and grand tours, the Biltmore Estate offers a range of visiting options.
Brevard, North Carolina:
Just a short drive from Asheville is the picturesque town of Brevard, known as the “Land of Waterfalls” for its abundance of cascading treasures.
This area is home to 250 waterfalls!
Each waterfall is unique, from the thundering, roaring waterfalls to the gentle cascade waterfalls.
We felt truly humbled by the raw power and beauty of nature as we stood in awe of these natural wonders.
But there’s another reason to visit Brevard…white squirrels!
The Brevard white squirrels are not albinos but a white variant of the eastern gray squirrel.
With almost a third of Brevard’s squirrel population, they have dark eyes and sometimes gray-streaked fur.
The white squirrels are protected by the city in 1986, therefore, no one can “hunt, kill, trap, or otherwise take any protected squirrels…”
So if you are inspired to visit Brevard, some hot spots are on the campus of Brevard College and quieter residential areas of town.
Finding Peace in Little Switzerland:
Little Switzerland is tucked away in the scenic mountains of western North Carolina.
In Little Switzerland, we discovered a tranquil oasis nestled among the rugged mountains of western North Carolina.
Surrounded by breathtaking vistas and serene forests, we felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over us as we explored this hidden gem.
We were reminded of the simple bliss and the importance of taking time to slow down and appreciate the world around us.
Tourists adore this quaint mountain village for its stunning vistas, cozy cabins, and old-world charm.
Spend your days hiking through forests or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
With its laid-back atmosphere and close proximity to some of the region’s most scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls, Little Switzerland is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Exploring the Waterfalls: A Closer Look
As part of our journey through North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arkansas, we had the opportunity to visit eight stunning waterfalls, each with its own unique beauty and charm.
Here’s a closer look at each of these natural wonders:
– Toms Creek Falls:
- Location: Near Marion, North Carolina.
- Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Road Getting There: May include some paved sections, with the last portion being a gravel road in good condition.
- Directions: From Marion, NC, take US-221 N for about 5 miles, then turn left onto Huskins Branch Rd. Follow signs for Toms Creek Falls for about 2 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area.
- Description: Toms Creek Falls is a beautiful 60-foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest. The trail follows a gentle incline through forested terrain, culminating in a stunning view of the cascading water as it tumbles over the rock face.
– Linville Falls:
- Location: Near Linville, North Carolina.
- Distance: Varies depending on trail choice, from 0.5 miles and up.
- Difficulty: Easy to strenuous.
- Road Getting There: Paved.
- Directions: Take the Blue Ridge Parkway south from Linville for about 1.5 miles to the Linville Falls Visitor Center. From there, follow signs for various trails leading to different viewpoints of the falls.
- Description: Linville Falls is a breathtaking series of waterfalls located in the Linville Gorge Wilderness area. The trails offer four viewpoints, each providing a unique perspective of the cascades as they plunge into the dramatic Linville Gorge.
– Crabtree Falls:
- Location: Near Little Switzerland, North Carolina.
- Distance: Approximately 2.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Road Getting There: Mostly paved with some gravel sections closer to the parking area.
- Directions: Take NC-226 N from Little Switzerland for about 0.7 miles, then turn left onto Crabtree Falls Hwy. Follow signs for Crabtree Falls for approximately 2 miles until you reach the parking area.
- Description: Crabtree Falls is a majestic 70-foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest. The trail to the falls winds through lush forest, offering scenic views along the way. Visitors can enjoy the waterfall from various viewpoints, including a wooden observation platform near the base of the cascade.
– Looking Glass Falls:
- Location: Near Brevard, North Carolina.
- Distance: Easily accessible from the roadside.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Road Getting There: Paved.
- Directions: Located along Highway 276 near Brevard, NC. The falls are visible from the roadside, and there’s a designated parking area with easy access.
- Description: Looking Glass Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in North Carolina, plunging 60 feet into a pool below. It’s easily accessible, making it a popular spot for visitors to admire and photograph.
– Yellow Branch Falls:
- Location: Near Walhalla, South Carolina.
- Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Road Getting There: May include some paved sections, with the last portion being a gravel road in good condition.
- Directions: From Walhalla, SC, take SC-28 W for about 8 miles, then turn right onto Whetstone Rd. Follow signs for Yellow Branch Falls for about 2 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area.
- Description: Yellow Branch Falls is a hidden gem tucked away in the Sumter National Forest. The trail follows a scenic creek, passing through lush forest and over wooden bridges before reaching the waterfall, which cascades 50 feet over a series of rock ledges.
– Glory Hole Falls:
- Location: Arkansas.
- Distance: Approximately 1.8 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Road Getting There: Gravel roads to reach the trailhead parking area.
- Directions: From Fallsville, AR, take County Rd 020 for about 2 miles, then turn left onto County Rd 0205. Follow signs for the trailhead parking area, then hike the Glory Hole Trail to the waterfall.
- Description: Glory Hole Falls is a unique and mesmerizing waterfall located in the Ozark National Forest. The trail offers scenic views of the surrounding forest and rock formations, culminating in the breathtaking sight of water pouring through a natural opening in the rock.
– Eden Falls:
- Location: Lost Valley area, Arkansas.
- Distance: Approximately 1.2 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Road Getting There: May include some gravel sections but is generally accessible.
- Directions: From Ponca, AR, take AR-43 S for about 2.5 miles, then turn right onto the gravel road leading to the Lost Valley Trailhead. Follow signs for the Lost Valley Trail, which leads to Eden Falls.
- Description: Eden Falls is a picturesque 35-foot waterfall located in the Lost Valley area of the Buffalo National River. The trail meanders through a scenic canyon, passing towering bluffs, moss-covered rocks, and lush vegetation before reaching the base of the waterfall.
– Hemmed-in Hollow Falls:
- Location: Buffalo National River area, Arkansas.
- Distance: Approximately 5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
- Road Getting There: Gravel roads to reach the Compton Trailhead parking area.
- Directions: Access the trailhead from the Compton Trailhead parking area off AR-43, then follow the Hemmed-in Hollow Trail.
- Description: Hemmed-in Hollow Falls is the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians, plunging 209 feet into a lush, secluded canyon. The hike offers scenic views of the surrounding Ozark Mountains and culminates in a breathtaking overlook of the waterfall.
Practical Tips: Planning Your Waterfall Adventure
As you prepare for your journey through the waterfalls and mountain towns of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arkansas, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your adventure:
- Check Trail Conditions: Before setting out to visit any waterfall, be sure to check trail conditions and weather forecasts. Some trails may be closed or inaccessible due to inclement weather or maintenance, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
- Pack Essentials: When exploring waterfalls and hiking trails, it’s essential to pack plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. Wear sturdy footwear and consider bringing a hiking pole for added stability on uneven terrain.
- Respect Nature: As you explore the natural beauty of the area, remember to leave no trace and respect the environment. Stay on designated trails, refrain from littering, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
- Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or weather conditions. Dress in layers and bring rain gear or a poncho in case of rain.
- Stay Safe: Always prioritize safety when exploring waterfalls and hiking trails. Be mindful of slippery rocks and steep terrain, and exercise caution when near the edge of cliffs or overlooks. Keep a safe distance from the waterfall’s edge and never attempt to climb or swim in areas where it’s prohibited.
- Plan Accommodations in Advance: If you plan to stay overnight in Asheville, Brevard, Little Switzerland, or any other nearby towns, be sure to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. If you are like us, as vanlifers, here’s essential apps to find over-night spots.
- Respect Local Communities: When visiting Asheville, Brevard, and Little Switzerland, take time to explore local shops, restaurants, and attractions, and support the communities you visit. Respect local customs and traditions, and engage with locals in a friendly and courteous manner.
By following these practical tips, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience as you discover waterfalls through the beautiful landscapes of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Arkansas.
Final Thoughts
Our time spent in Asheville, Brevard, and Little Switzerland has shown us the beauty of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, with their stunning vistas, cozy cabins, and old-world charm.
We’ve marveled at the power and majesty of nature as we stood before towering waterfalls and hiked through forests, and we love the sense of adventure and wonder that comes with exploring new places.
But beyond the natural beauty and outdoor adventures, our journey has also been a reminder of the importance of slowing down and savoring the moment to enjoy a “dolce far niente” life.
Journeying with loved ones and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Our time spent in the mountains has been a source of joy, inspiration, and renewal.
As we end the chase of waterfalls and the visits to charming mountain towns, we have a deep appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
And as we look ahead to future adventures, we know that the mountains will always be calling.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and may your own travels be filled with simple bliss, beauty, adventure, and moments of wonder.
Original Post Published April 18th, 2024
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Photo Credits:
- “Little Switzerland ‘City Limits’” by jimmywayne is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 ↩︎
- “Christmas Tree Farm in Little Switzerland, NC” by Jdshepard is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 ↩︎
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