Cullasaja Falls Franklin NC
A majestic 250-foot waterfall cascading through a gorge, accessible via a challenging trail and a scenic roadside viewpoint.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Cullasaja Falls Franklin NC
Best Time
Lush greenery, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 250-foot waterfall cascading through a gorge, accessible via a challenging trail and a scenic roadside viewpoint.
"The hike down is tough, but the views of the rushing water surrounded by forest make it completely worth it."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Water shoes are recommended if you plan to explore the rocks at the base.
🅿️ Parking is Scarce
Arrive early or be prepared to wait for a parking spot. It's a popular, but small, pull-off area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Cascade
Base of the falls
Witness the powerful 250-foot cascade plunging into the gorge. The roar of the water is immense, and the surrounding forest is breathtaking.
Roadside Viewpoint
Highway 64
Catch a glimpse of the falls directly from the road. It's a quick stop for a beautiful view, though a closer look requires a hike.
The Challenging Descent
Trail to the base
For the adventurous, the steep, rocky trail offers a more intimate experience with the falls. Proper footwear is a must!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Trails & Limited Parking
Scenic Drive with Multiple Falls
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Water shoes are recommended if you plan to explore the rocks at the base.
🅿️ Parking is Scarce
Arrive early or be prepared to wait for a parking spot. It's a popular, but small, pull-off area.
💧 Bring Water
The hike down and back up can be strenuous, especially on a warm day. Stay hydrated!
📸 Capture the Views
The surrounding valley views are as stunning as the falls themselves. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail is steep and can be slippery. Water shoes are recommended if you plan to explore the rocks at the base.
🅿️ Parking is Scarce
Arrive early or be prepared to wait for a parking spot. It's a popular, but small, pull-off area.
💧 Bring Water
The hike down and back up can be strenuous, especially on a warm day. Stay hydrated!
📸 Capture the Views
The surrounding valley views are as stunning as the falls themselves. Don't forget your camera!
🚗 Explore the Scenic Byway
Don't miss other waterfalls like Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls nearby. It's a beautiful drive!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty and power of Cullasaja Falls, calling it one of Western North Carolina's most beautiful and underrated waterfalls. While the hike to the base is steep and challenging, most agree the breathtaking views make the effort entirely worthwhile. Parking is a common point of frustration due to its limited availability. +1
"Cullasaja falls is one of my favorite waterfalls in western North Carolina. There isn’t much parking, and the trail is super steep, but the views are beautiful and the waterfall is picture-perfect. The views of the valley behind the falls is amazing, and the road to get there is just as beautiful, with multiple other waterfalls along the road."
Henry Southworth
"Cullasaja Falls is one of North Carolina’s most beautiful and underrated waterfalls. The hike to get a good view can be tough, with steep and narrow paths, but the sight of the rushing water surrounded by forest makes it completely worth it."
Istiaq Firoz Shiam
"Good luck if you choose to hike down to the base, it is fairly steep! I thought that I'd be able to but it was a bit slippery in spots and while there is rope tied in places, it wasn't in the place I needed. I'll try again another day with some better shoes. Can't really see it when you are driving and there is only a little spot to pull over, so it's easy to miss."
Lauren
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cullasaja Falls is located along US Highway 64 between Franklin and Highlands, North Carolina. It's easily accessible by car, but parking is very limited.
Parking is extremely limited. There's a small pull-off area right by the falls. Arriving early or on a weekday is your best bet to find a spot.
Yes, you can see the falls from the roadside viewpoint. However, to get a closer look and experience the full power, you'll need to hike down.
The Mountain Waters Scenic Byway (Highway 64) is renowned for its beauty and features several waterfalls, including Cullasaja Falls, Dry Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Cullasaja Falls is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Asheville, North Carolina, making it a great day trip destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Cullasaja Falls. It's a natural attraction within the Nantahala National Forest.
Cullasaja Falls is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no admission fee for the trail leading down to the base of Cullasaja Falls. It's a free natural attraction.
While some visitors enjoy wading in the shallower areas, swimming directly at the base of the falls is generally not recommended due to strong currents and slippery rocks.
Be mindful of the steep and potentially hazardous trail. Respect the natural environment and pack out everything you pack in.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered steep and challenging, with rocky and uneven terrain. It's not recommended for those with mobility issues or a fear of heights.
Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential. Water shoes are also a good idea if you plan to explore the rocky areas near the water.
The hike itself is short, but the steepness can make it take longer than expected. Allow at least 30-60 minutes for the round trip, depending on your fitness level and how long you spend at the base.
There are no facilities, including restrooms, at the Cullasaja Falls viewpoint or trailhead. Plan accordingly.
The base of the falls offers dramatic perspectives. The roadside viewpoint provides a good overview, and the surrounding rocks in the gorge can also yield great shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The closest dining options are in the towns of Franklin and Highlands, which offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries.
There are no designated picnic areas. You can enjoy a picnic in your car at the pull-off or find a spot along the scenic byway, but remember to pack out all trash.
Franklin offers a range of dining, from casual American fare and Southern comfort food to pizza and international cuisine.
No, there are no food vendors or concessions at Cullasaja Falls itself. It's a natural attraction.
It's advisable to pack snacks and drinks, or plan to eat before or after your visit in Franklin or Highlands.
📸 📸 Photography
Mid-morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the falls are impressive at any time, and the mist can create interesting effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and gorge. A tripod can help with long exposures, especially in lower light.
Bring a rain cover or a microfiber cloth to wipe away moisture. Be cautious when getting close to the falls.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's best to check current regulations with the Nantahala National Forest before flying.
Experiment with shots from the roadside viewpoint, the trail leading down, and from the rocks at the base for different perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for Families:
* Prioritize safety and assess the trail's suitability for your children's age and abilities.
* Consider visiting Dry Falls or Bridal Veil Falls for more accessible waterfall experiences.
* Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are scarce.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The roadside viewpoint allows for a quick, impactful stop, while the more adventurous can tackle the hike down. +1Road Tripper Recommendations:
* Combine with other falls: Make a day of it by visiting Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
* Enjoy the drive: The entire scenic byway is worth exploring.
* Pack a picnic: Enjoy lunch with a view, but remember to leave no trace.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
The mist rising from the falls can add an ethereal quality to your images, especially with a longer exposure. Photography Tips:
* Protect your gear: Use a rain cover or lens cloth for mist.
* Experiment with angles: Capture the falls from the roadside, trail, and base.
* Consider a tripod: For stable shots and long exposures.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Descent: Hiking to the Base
Key Takeaways for the Hike:
* Footwear is crucial: Opt for hiking boots or shoes with excellent grip.
* Assess your fitness: Be realistic about your physical capabilities before attempting the descent.
* Patience is a virtue: The climb back up can be strenuous, so take your time and rest as needed.
* Safety first: Be aware of your surroundings and the slippery conditions.
The Scenic Byway: A Waterfall Trail
+1 This makes it an ideal destination for a road trip focused on chasing waterfalls. Popular stops include Dry Falls, where you can walk behind the cascade, and Bridal Veil Falls, known for its unique rock formations. Tips for Exploring the Byway:
* Plan your stops: Research the other waterfalls beforehand to make the most of your drive.
* Allow ample time: Each stop can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your interest.
* Be mindful of parking: Similar to Cullasaja Falls, parking at other popular falls can be limited.
* Enjoy the journey: The drive itself offers breathtaking mountain vistas.
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