Sunburst Falls
A picturesque roadside waterfall in NC's Pisgah National Forest, featuring a historic bridge and a refreshing swimming hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch peak fall colors
Sunburst Falls
Best Time
Catch peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque roadside waterfall in NC's Pisgah National Forest, featuring a historic bridge and a refreshing swimming hole.
"This unique roadside waterfall is a must-see for its beauty and easy access, especially during fall!"
🚗 Limited Roadside Parking
Parking is scarce! Be patient and aware of traffic. Keep kids and pets close. :car:
🥾 Scramble to Lower Falls
The path to the lower falls is steep and can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Sunburst Falls
Roadside, Highway 215
Easily viewable from the road, this section offers immediate natural beauty and photo opportunities.
Lower Sunburst Falls & Swimming Hole
Across Highway 215
A short, steep scramble down reveals a more secluded lower falls and a refreshing (though chilly!) swimming spot.
Historic Stone Bridge
Overlooking the falls
This unique, historic bridge built over the falls adds a picturesque element to the natural scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Roadside Wonder: Easy Access, Big Views
Timing is Key for Fall Colors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Roadside Parking
Parking is scarce! Be patient and aware of traffic. Keep kids and pets close. +1 :car:
🥾 Scramble to Lower Falls
The path to the lower falls is steep and can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The curve of the road offers great views, but be cautious of passing cars. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ Cold Water Dip
Water temps are around 50°F in October, but it's a unique experience! :cold_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Roadside Parking
Parking is scarce! Be patient and aware of traffic. Keep kids and pets close. +1 :car:
🥾 Scramble to Lower Falls
The path to the lower falls is steep and can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The curve of the road offers great views, but be cautious of passing cars. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ Cold Water Dip
Water temps are around 50°F in October, but it's a unique experience! :cold_face:
🍂 Fall Foliage Peak
Visit early fall for stunning colors, but expect more visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Sunburst Falls' stunning roadside beauty, especially during fall. While parking is limited and the scramble to the lower falls can be steep, the unique charm of the falls and the historic bridge make it a worthwhile stop for a quick photo or a refreshing, albeit cold, dip. +2
"If you haven't taken these NC backroads to the falls yet, DO IT! You can see the falls from your car, you don’t even have to get out unless you want to. This route hits all the gorgeous small, insider spots and avoids crowds until the last hr on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Be careful; the falls are right on a curve. It was busy due to the fall colors, but not bumper to bumper yet. It is considered to be located above Waynesville, Canton, etc. It is worth the ride!"
Kristi Antley (Roaming Redneck Writer)
"Sunburst Falls is a unique roadside waterfall on Highway 215, famous for its historic stone bridge built over the falls. You can view the top easily, or take a steep scramble down to a lower swimming hole. It's a popular spot, great for photos, but be cautious of traffic and slippery rocks. A distinctive mountain stop!"
Kaitlyn Buchanan
"Beautiful falls on both sides of the road. We swam in it during the month of October. We brought a thermometer. Water temp was 50 degrees. Air temp was 55. So worth it."
Dawn Parsley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunburst Falls is located on Highway 215 in North Carolina, north of the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's a roadside attraction, so you can often see it directly from your car. Be aware that parking is extremely limited, especially during peak seasons like fall.
The upper section of Sunburst Falls is easily accessible from the roadside, requiring no hiking. To reach the lower falls, there's a steep scramble down, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
You can view the upper falls directly from the pull-off on Highway 215. For the lower falls, carefully cross the road and descend the embankment. Always prioritize safety due to traffic and slippery conditions.
Sunburst Falls is situated in the scenic Pisgah National Forest and is near the Blue Ridge Parkway, offering numerous opportunities for scenic drives and exploring other waterfalls like Graveyard Fields.
Yes, the upper section of Sunburst Falls is visible right from the roadside pull-off. This makes it a convenient stop for those who prefer not to hike. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sunburst Falls is a natural attraction and does not require any tickets or admission fees. It's free to visit and enjoy the scenery.
As a natural roadside attraction, Sunburst Falls is accessible 24/7. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
There is no entrance fee for Sunburst Falls. It's a public access point within the Pisgah National Forest.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday afternoon or during the shoulder seasons. Weekends and peak fall color times can get very busy due to its popularity.
Absolutely! The upper falls are visible from the road, making it an ideal spot for a quick photo opportunity or a brief moment of appreciation for nature. +1
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the upper falls from the roadside, carefully scramble down to the lower falls, and even take a dip in the swimming hole if you're brave enough for the cold water! It's also a popular spot for photography. +1
Yes, the lower section of Sunburst Falls has a swimming hole. Be prepared for very cold water, even in warmer months, with temperatures around 50°F in October.
Sunburst Falls is a photographer's dream, especially during fall. The combination of the falls, the historic bridge, and the surrounding foliage offers stunning shots.
There are no designated hiking trails directly at Sunburst Falls. Access to the lower falls involves a steep scramble, not a formal trail.
Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must, especially if you plan to access the lower falls. Layers are also advisable, as mountain weather can change quickly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Sunburst Falls. It's a natural attraction, so plan to bring your own snacks or visit nearby towns like Canton or Waynesville for food.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a picnic at the roadside pull-off. Be sure to pack out everything you pack in to keep the area clean.
The closest towns with dining options are Canton and Waynesville, both offering a variety of local eateries and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the falls and surrounding landscape. Golden hour can create a magical atmosphere, especially with fall colors.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire scene, including the bridge and falls. A tripod can help with longer exposures to smooth out the water.
The roadside pull-off offers a classic view of the upper falls and bridge. For a different perspective, carefully descend to the lower falls area.
Visit during peak fall foliage season (typically mid-October). Look for compositions that include the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves with the water.
Limited parking can make it hard to get the perfect shot without other cars in the frame. Slippery rocks near the lower falls also require caution. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the busiest times. The easy access to the upper falls makes it a great option for a brief nature break during a scenic drive. Remember to keep little ones close and be aware of traffic when stopping.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) is ideal for capturing the best light, especially during fall when the foliage adds vibrant colors. A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the entire scene, and a tripod can be beneficial for longer exposures to smooth the water's flow. Be prepared for limited parking and potentially slippery conditions when accessing different vantage points.
+1🚗 Road Trip Detour
Be aware of the limited parking and the fact that it's situated on a curve. It's best enjoyed as a brief stop to stretch your legs, snap a few photos, and appreciate the natural scenery before continuing your journey. Combine it with other nearby attractions for a full day of exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Sunburst Falls: Access and Safety
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the lower falls offer a different perspective and a chance for a refreshing swim. Reaching this area involves a steep scramble down the embankment across the road. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, as the rocks can be slippery and the terrain uneven. Always prioritize safety, especially if traveling with children or pets, and be aware of your surroundings.
While there are no formal hiking trails, the area around Sunburst Falls is part of the beautiful Pisgah National Forest. The falls themselves are a natural spectacle, enhanced by a historic stone bridge that adds a unique architectural element to the landscape. Remember that the area may still be recovering from past weather events, so conditions can vary.
The Magic of Fall at Sunburst Falls
+1Visiting during peak fall foliage, typically in mid-October, offers the most dramatic scenery. However, this is also when the falls experience their highest visitor numbers. To enjoy the colors with fewer crowds, consider visiting on a weekday morning or later in the afternoon. The cooler air also makes the prospect of a dip in the lower falls' swimming hole more invigorating, though the water remains quite cold.
Even outside of peak fall, Sunburst Falls offers year-round charm. The sound of the water and the lush greenery provide a serene escape. However, it's worth noting that the area can experience droughts, which might affect the water flow at certain times of the year.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit