The Chattooga River

Chattooga River Gorge

The Chattooga River Gorge is one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the eastern United States. Designated a Wild and Scenic River by congress in 1974, the Chattooga River is characterized by dense forests, undeveloped shorelines, whitewater rapids and multiple waterfalls; it's banks and riverbed riddled with massive boulders and alien rock formations.

Originating in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the Chattooga flows South through the Nanthahala National Forest for ten miles before crossing the North Carolina border. For the next forty miles the river serves as the boundary between South Carolina and Georgia as it makes it's way South to Lake Tugaloo. Over the course of a mere fifty miles the river descends some 2500 feet in elevation making the Chattooga a whitewater wonderland.



The ten mile stretch of the river that courses through the Nanthahala Wilderness is remote, and the surrounding forest is extremely dense. Few trails lead to the rivers edge and those that do are typically steep descents over slick rocks or loose top soils. Those adventurous souls who are able to make the descent are often rewarded with spectacular scenery, and tempting views up and down the river. Unfortunately, it is often difficult, if not impossible, to move upstream or down while within the gorge. The Chattooga is notorious for it's impenetrable rapids and the encroaching forest leaves little, if any, shoreline to follow.



We entered the gorge through Horse Cove, East of Highlands, N.C. and covered the last three miles to the river via Bull Pen Rd. There are several primitive campsites on Ammons Branch that are accessible from Bull Pen Rd. and the surrounding area is beautiful. Approximately 1.5 miles past Ammons Branch there is an iron bridge which spans the Chattooga. Here, there are short, moderately difficult trails which lead down to the river.


View from the bridge

While not easy to get to, the Chattooga River Gorge is a virtually virgin wilderness; one of the few places in the Eastern United States where you will likely find no trace of human intrusion. We believe it is important to keep it this way, and while we encourage you to explore this area, we ask that you Leave No Trace! Gather your gear, tie on your boots and go!

Hike On!

From Highlands, follow Main Street east out of town. Go approximately 4.5 miles through Horse Cove until ;the pavement ends. Bear right onto Bull Pen Rd. and follow it approximately three miles to the bridge.

Waterfall Safety

Rainbow Falls

Western North Carolina is home to some of the nation's most spectacular hydro-displays. Waterfalls, whitewater rapids, bubbling brooks, and wild mountain streams abound throughout the area. For the outdoor enthusiast there is nothing so exhilarating as getting up-close and personal with these incredible natural wonders, and while we encourage you to do so, we also encourage you to be safe. Here are a few tips for avoiding injury (or worse) when exploring the wild water in and around The Land of Waterfalls.

Wear Appropriate Footwear - Rivers and waterfalls are inherently dangerous. The spray areas around waterfalls, and the banks of the rivers which produce them, typically remain wet throughout the year creating an environment in which mosses, algae, and molds thrive. These areas can be extremely slippery! A good pair of hiking boots or river shoes can improve traction and protect the feet from inadvertent injury.

Lower Your Center of Gravity - In addition to wearing proper footwear, lowering your center of gravity and using both your hands and your feet to negotiate wet, steep, or uneven surfaces greatly reduces the risk of falling. This is particularly useful for scrabbling over the large boulders which are common around waterfalls and mountain streams. A low center of gravity not only increases balance, it also shortens the distance of the fall should one occur.

Never Enter a River Above a Waterfall - This should be a no-brainer. Entering a river can be a dangerous proposition under any circumstance, attempting to cross a river near a waterfall increases the danger exponentially. Currents can increase dramatically as a river approaches a waterfall and even shallow water can sweep an individual off their feet and over the falls. Hiking 101: Never put yourself in a position where you can be seriously injured in a fall.

Do Not Attempt to Climb a Waterfall - Hello! Even experienced climbers would not attempt to climb a waterfall without proper gear and safety equipment. Did I mention that waterfalls are inherently dangerous?

Carry a Big Stick - Clear mountain waters are often much deeper than they appear, and rocks and river beds that appear level or stable may not be so. Many of the rock deposits in river beds are comprised of loose rocks which have migrated with the current. What appears to be a natural ford of stationary stepping stones across a running stream may in fact, be loose rocks that can shift dangerously underfoot. Carrying a walking stick into the water with you allows you to determine depth and test the stability of surfaces in front of you.

Respect the Current - River currents vary with depth, degree of descent, water volume, size and shape of obstructions, and the natural contours of the river bed. Discerning rate and course of currents can be difficult at best. Be aware that deeper water produces stronger currents. Stepping off an underwater shelf can cause you to lose contact with the river bed and send you swiftly downstream. If you do get swept up in the current, do not struggle against it. Put your feet in front of you and raise your head, letting the river carry you until the current weakens and you can make your way toward shore. If you are carrying a pack, unbuckle it at the waist before entering the water so you can discard it if necessary.

Be Vigilant - Keep in mind that you are in an extreme environment, one that is likely far outside your realm of experience. Nature is indifferent to your well-being. Exercise common-sense and don't put yourself in dangerous situations.

Hike On!

Whitewater Falls

Upper Whitewater Falls

Over a course of less than three miles the Whitewater River drops nearly 1100 feet, coursing it's way over the Blue Ridge Escarpment and producing two of the area's most spectacular waterfalls. The Whitewater River Gorge is one of four gorges that comprise the Jocassee Gorges. The Thompson, Toxaway, and Horsepasture Rivers, along with the Whitewater are the four major waterways that feed Lake Jocassee on the border of North and South Carolina.

On it's initial plunge the Whitewater River plummets over 400 feet through some of the most pristine wilderness in the Eastern United States. It's incredible height, unmatched water volume, and the natural beauty of the surrounding area make Upper Whitewater Falls one of the most revered in the area. It is reputed to be the highest waterfall in the Eastern United States and is certainly one of the most spectacular. Upper Whitewater Falls is also one of the most accessible in The Land of Waterfalls, provided one doesn't mind viewing it from a distance. The paved, handicap accessible trail is less than a quarter mile from parking area to overlook.

Lower Whitewater falls is approximately a half-mile downstream and can be viewed from an observation platform at the end of a 1.9 mile trail. Nearly as impressive as it's up-river cousin, Lower Whitewater Falls cascades some 180 feet before free-falling another 200 feet to the rock-laden river below. The view here, like that of the upper falls, is distant and encompasses nearly the entire falls. Due to the extreme nature of the surrounding topography, attempting to get any closer to the falls is extraordinarily dangerous and many have died trying.

Rugged terrain, steep elevations, and dense hardwood forests have inhibited development and discouraged human molestation of the natural environment, making the Jocassee Gorge area home to a plethora of rare plant and animal life. The spray areas around the falls form 'tropical' micro-climates that support a variety of plant life which require the specific moisture conditions found near waterfalls. Many of the ferns, mosses, and wildflowers which thrive here take decades to establish themselves. Venturing into these areas is dangerous, not only for you, but for the fragile ecosystems that exist here. If you must go, tread lightly and Leave No Trace.

From Highlands N.C. head East on US-64 to Lake Toxaway. At the intersection of US-64 and NC-281 you will see signs for Whitewater Falls.


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Glen Falls

Top of Glen Falls

The East fork of Overflow Creek flows through the scenic Blue Valley of Nantahala National Forest. A few miles West of Highlands N.C. the waters of the Overflow spread thin over vast granite flats and can be seen pouring themselves over a smooth precipice as if spilling off the edge of the world. The water here is so shallow and clear, and the granite escarpment so flat, one is tempted to walk to the brink of the falls and look out over the edge. And while this area of the falls sits high within the valley and presents spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, venturing into the flow is ill-advised. In the past year, two individuals, in separate accidents, have been seriously injured after falling from this section of the falls. They were lucky. Waterfalls are dangerous - watch your step!


Upper Glen Falls

On it's initial plunge, Overflow Creek plummets 70 feet, the waters cascading violently over the granite bluffs below. A steep decline leads to the base of this spectacular waterfall and with a little common-sense and caution you can walk to the edge of the flow; again, caution is key. Like the escarpment above, the granite which comprises the creek bed is worn smooth by the water's relentless pursuit of the lowlands, and while it appears as though one could literally walk across the falls, attempting to do so could kill you.


Middle Section-Glen Falls

While the upper falls is an impressive sight, the middle section of Glen Falls is even more breathtaking. Here, the water cascades another 60 feet, stairstepping down a wide rock face. The granite shelves that underlie this section of the falls are lightly veiled by the water's flow and colorfully marked with mineral deposits. The trail that parallels this rolling whitewater wonder are well marked, but those leading to the waters edge will require a little bushwhacking on your part; it is well worth the effort to get a close-up of the falls.

A contract has been awarded for a reconstruction project at Glen Falls, initiated by the U.S. Forestry Service. The project description includes four new observation decks, re-surfacing of the trail tread, and re-construction of a side trail leading to a swimming hole. You can get detailed information with regard to this project here.


Head West from Highlands N.C., take a left on Hwy 106. Go about 1.7 miles and you'll see the sign for Glen Falls Scenic Area on the left. While the hike involves a somewhat strenuous incline on the return trip, it is well worth the effort. Tie your boots on and go!

Hike On!

Graveyard Fields

Second Falls at Graveyard Fields

While the name might sound a little scary, Graveyard Fields is, in reality, one of the most leisurely and enjoyable hikes within The Land of Waterfalls. Several hundred years ago the area was blasted by a freakish wind storm which toppled most of its trees. Then, in 1925 a wildfire razed the area and the forest has struggled to recover ever since. In stark contrast to the surrounding old-growth forests, Graveyard Fields is peppered with dwarfed trees and stumps that, with a little imagination, resemble tombstones in a graveyard setting. This unique and tranquil, mile high valley is filled with wildflowers in the springtime and surrounded by the towering peaks of The Blue Ridge Mountains. It is also home to three beautiful waterfalls.

The Yellowstone Prong flows through Graveyard Fields, patiently smoothing the valley's granite floor as it makes its way to the East fork of the Pigeon River. The Yellowstone enters the valley via Upper Falls, a whitewater plume that emerges between two rock masses and pours 50 feet down a narrow sluice of colorful granite. Further downstream, The Yellowstone takes an even deeper plunge at Second Falls.

Second Falls is a breathtaking scene with clear mountain waters flowing smoothly over several well-worn granite bluffs and filling a deep, clear pool at its base. This section of the Yellowstone Prong provides ample opportunity for the more adventurous to boulder-hop into the midst of its crystal clear waters and absorb the natural beauty of the area. The immense granite bluffs that form the falls are colorfully banded in a yellowish hue and the deep pool at the base is an inviting reprieve from the summer heat.

The third descent of The Yellowstone is Yellowstone Falls, a long decline of rushing water that flows in a clear, thin veil over smooth shelves of colorful rock. While we did not venture down to Yellowstone Falls during our visit to Graveyard Fields, I have read that it is a difficult, if not dangerous descent to the base. As is so often the case, my adventurous spirit will likely trump common-sense and I will make the descent on our next visit.

From Brevard, take NC-276 North to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Head West on the parkway for about 6 miles to mile post 418. (Lat:35.19218 Lon:-82.50834)

Hike On!

The Cullasaja River Gorge

Cullasaja Falls

Originating at Lake Sequoyah, the Cullasaja River carves a deep and magnificent path through the Southern Appalachians to form the Cullasaja River Gorge. The river flows West from Highlands N.C. and is paralleled by The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway (US-64), a serpentine two-lane highway precariously pressed between towering granite rock faces and the plunging depths of the gorge. Traversing more than 60 miles of the Nanthahala National Forest, this scenic highway twists and turns through the first 15 miles like a roller-coaster through a wilderness wonderland. There are numerous pull-offs along the road offering spectacular views of the gorge and providing access to the area's many waterfalls.

Bridal Veil Falls is fed by a tributary to the Cullasaja River and is located 1.2 miles West of Highlands on US-64. The falls are difficult to miss, as they plummet 120 feet from a granite bluff overhang above the highway, crashing into a rocky pool on the opposing side of the road. This unique joining of road and waterway allows visitors to literally, drive beneath the falls.


Dry Falls

Dry Falls, also known as Upper Cullasaja or High Falls, are located just a few miles further West of Bridal Veil Falls, and while you would have a difficult time driving a car behind the falls, you can certainly walk behind them. Dry Falls is on the Cullasaja River and flows over an overhanging bluff, allowing visitors to walk behind the wall of water while remaining relatively dry. For the more adventurous (or foolhardy) a rather difficult and treacherous trail leads further downriver to the base of the falls. Bear in mind, this is an extremely high-volume water flow and the river gorge is very steep; a simple miss-step could cost you your life.

Cullasaja Falls is located in the lower Cullasaja River Gorge and can be seen from the highway above. This magnificent hydro-display cascades through 250 feet of hardwood forest, its roiling waters white with fury, as it crashes noisily over massive granite spires. These majestic falls are nine miles West of Highlands on US-64, and can be viewed from a turn-off precariously perched at the apex of a sharp curve in the road. The falls are unmarked and there are no trails providing access to the gorge below. At one overlook a sheer granite wall rises some 400 feet from the base of the falls to the roadway above; a repeller's dream come true. A few hundred feet downriver the granite gives way to loose shale and thick tangles of brush, allowing for a very dangerous but achievable descent.

Note: This is an extremely dangerous and inadvisable descent into a comparably dangerous environment, riddled with slick rocks and surrounded by Class 5 rapids! Descend at your own risk!

Another little gem nestled amidst the hardwoods and mountain streams of the Cullasaja River Basin is Van Hook Glade Campground and Cliffside Lake Recreation Area. Situated between Dry Falls and Cullasaja Falls on US-64, Van Hook Glade offers secluded and well-designed campsites, several hiking trails, river access, hot showers, and flush toilets for a reasonable fee. The area is managed by a US Forest Service volunteer and tends to be less crowded than other campgrounds in the area, making it the campground of choice for my girlfriend and I.

Cliffside Lake is a small mountain oasis less than a mile away where visitors can swim, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, picnic on a grassy lakeside knoll, or fish for trophy Rainbow Trout and Largemouth Bass. Ask my girl about the monster Rainbow she hauled up from the depths.

All in all, the Cullisaja River Gorge is an awe-inspiring wilderness area that abounds with opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. Miles of hiking trails, numerous waterfalls, and acre upon acre of pristine backcountry wilderness just begging to be explored. Find the time, pack your gear and go! You won't regret it!

This stretch of The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway (US-64) which parallels the Cullasaja River Gorge is located between Highlands and Cashiers N.C.



Hike On!

Davidson River

Looking Glass Falls

Our first trip to the Land of Waterfalls took us to one of the coolest small towns in the nation. Brevard, N.C. is ranked number two on Yahoo's Top Ten Coolest Small Towns in America and has been touted as 'the gateway to outdoor recreation in the Southeast'. This artsy little town is situated at the southernmost entrance to the Pisgah National Forest and provides easy access to some of this nation's most beautiful wilderness areas.

The Davidson River is a beautiful rock-strewn mountain stream that flows on either side of scenic byway US-276 and it is home to some of the area's most beautiful waterfalls. The iconic Looking Glass Falls, is located just North of Davidson River Campground and is one of the area's most photographed attractions. The trailhead to Moore Cove Falls, considered by some to be the best hike in the area, is located a few miles further North, as is Sliding Rock Falls, a natural water slide that will propel a full-grown man 60 ft. into a deep, cool pool at its base.

The Davidson River Area and Pisgah National Forest are home to The Cradle of Forestry in America. The 6,500-acre Cradle of Forestry Historic Site was established by Congress in 1968 and contains the nation's first official school of forestry. Biltmore Forest School opened its doors in 1898 and for 15 years taught students the science and business of forestry, eventually producing over 300 foresters; the forefathers of modern forestry in America.

We stayed at Davidson River Campground, just north of Brevard and within the confines of the Pisgah. It is conveniently located and provides easy access to nearly all the area hiking trails. Many of the 161 sites are open year-round, and many are on the river; an outdoor playground in its own right. Facilities include: flush toilets, hot showers, and an amphitheater.

Be aware that due to its convenient location, Davidson River Campground tends to draw large crowds during the late spring and summer months. Fortunately, camping is allowed anywhere on National Forest property, except within 500' of a road or in a designated closed area. In fact, you will likely see a few make-shift sites along some of the trails in the area. You are free to utilize these sites if they are unoccupied.

In addition to its many waterfalls, The Davidson River Area provides access to a variety of activities for the outdoor enthusiast. It is the quintessential wilderness playground for the hiker, mountain biker, backpacker, rock climber, photographer, and fisherman. In fact, it's been said that the Davidson River produces more pounds of trout per mile than any other river in N.C. and it consistently produces trophy Browns and Rainbows. If you ever have the opportunity to explore the area ...take it! You will not be disappointed.

Head North on NC-276 from Brevard, N.C. The Davidson River Area is North of the intersection of US-64, NC-280, and NC-276.


Hike On!

Land of Waterfalls

Transylvania County, N.C. - Land of Waterfalls

Few things in the natural world are as awe-inspiring as the sight of water plummeting off the side of a mountain precipice, free-falling hundreds of feet, and crashing noisily into a rock-strewn pool below. There is nothing so exhilarating as hiking into a deep river gorge and boulder-hopping your way to the base of these majestic hydro-displays. For the connoisseur of the plunge, Transylvania County, North Carolina is a waterfall mecca.

The area's unique geography and temperate rain forest climate combine to provide waterfall hunters with some 250 magnificent cascades to explore and enjoy. Many of the area’s most beautiful waterfalls are easily accessible, while others require strenuous hikes or difficult and dangerous descents. For the less adventurous, many of the most popular falls can be seen from lookouts along Highways US-64, US-276, and NC-281.

Transylvania County is also home to hundreds of miles of mountain streams and over 1000 miles of hiking and biking trails that provide access to some of the most diverse plant and animal life in the country. Gorges State Park for instance, is home to roughly 125 rare plant and animal species and 12 endangered or threatened species, including Oconee Bells, very rare flowering plants which are abundant in the gorges of the park. Gorges State Park is also home to one of the nation's largest Black Bear sanctuaries.

We plan to explore this area further on our next trip, so look for future posts on Gorges at a later date.

Hike On!


Transylvania County is located in the Appalachian Mountains of Western North Carolina, approximately 35 minutes Southwest of Asheville via U.S. Highway 280.