Soco Falls
A breathtaking roadside double waterfall in North Carolina, recently renovated for better accessibility and views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are most powerful
Soco Falls
Best Time
Waterfalls are most powerful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking roadside double waterfall in North Carolina, recently renovated for better accessibility and views.
"The falls are worth the walk down and back. Gorgeous."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for safety.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
The new parking lot is spacious and conveniently located near the trail entrance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Double Cascade
Main viewing area
Witness two powerful waterfalls merging into one breathtaking spectacle. A true natural wonder!
Accessible Viewing Platform
Top of the trail
Enjoy panoramic mountain vistas and a clear view of the falls from this newly improved, accessible deck.
Steep Trail to the Base
Trail leading down from viewing platform
For the adventurous, a challenging but rewarding scramble down to the base offers a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
New Trail, Old Charm
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for safety.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
The new parking lot is spacious and conveniently located near the trail entrance.
⚠️ Heed Safety Warnings
Always stay on marked trails and never climb on wet rocks near the falls. +1
📸 Capture the Double Falls
The unique double cascade is a photographer's dream. Visit after rain for maximum impact.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Good grip is essential for safety.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
The new parking lot is spacious and conveniently located near the trail entrance.
⚠️ Heed Safety Warnings
Always stay on marked trails and never climb on wet rocks near the falls. +1
📸 Capture the Double Falls
The unique double cascade is a photographer's dream. Visit after rain for maximum impact.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trail
Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail, making it a great spot for furry adventurers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning double waterfall at Soco Falls, especially after recent renovations that improved accessibility and parking. While the new trail is safer, the descent to the base remains steep and requires sturdy footwear. The accessible viewing platform offers beautiful mountain vistas, making it enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.
"New parking lot and new trail down to the falls is really nice! Last time we were here the parking was just a shoulder off the busy road with ropes along the steep rocks to climb down :) was fun then but now it’s a little more geared to all skill levels. Be aware there are still steep slopes down and stairs. If you have trouble with stairs or are not sure footed this may be a little tough. But it’s awesome!"
Amanda
"Parking is generous with easy access. There's a nice level area with seating overlooking a beautiful mountain scape at the head of the trail that may be enjoyed by those who are unable to get down to the falls. The path down to the falls is steep with loose gravel in certain areas, so appropriate shoes are a must. The steepest areas do have a wooden handrail for some assistance if needed, and there were a couple of benches available as well. The falls are worth the walk down and back. Gorgeous."
Wendy Nowell
"Soco Falls Trail. Finally made it to the new trail. Beautiful & nicely done. Big parking lot with a platform to overlook the mountains, handicap accessible to the platform, NOT to the trail. From the new trail you can't get to the bottom of the Falls, but it's beautiful. You can see the old trail down from the highway which is blocked off for safety due to Landslide from Helene floods. Nice hike down, cooking back up was steep but very manageable. Free hike."
Danette Kuzel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Soco Falls is conveniently located right off US-19 between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, NC. The new, improved parking area is easily accessible from the highway. 
While not directly on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Soco Falls is in close proximity and a popular stop for those traveling the parkway or in the surrounding Maggie Valley and Cherokee areas.
The recently renovated Soco Falls features a significantly improved and ample parking lot, making it much easier to find a spot compared to the old roadside shoulder parking.
The old trail access from the highway is now blocked off for safety reasons due to past landslides. Visitors should use the new, designated trail from the improved parking area.
The hike to the viewing platform is short and generally considered easy to moderate. However, the trail down to the base of the falls is steep and can be challenging for some.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Soco Falls is a free attraction. There are no admission fees to visit the falls or use the new trail and viewing platform.
Soco Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient natural light for safety.
There is no entrance fee to visit Soco Falls. It is a publicly accessible natural attraction.
Yes, Soco Falls can be visited in the winter. However, be aware that conditions can be icy, and the trail may be more hazardous. Always check local conditions before visiting.
The new trail and viewing platform at Soco Falls are generally open year-round, weather permitting. It's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to severe weather.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The newly constructed viewing deck offers excellent views of the double waterfall and the surrounding mountains. For a more adventurous perspective, the steep trail down to the base provides a unique angle.
The round trip for the new trail to the viewing platform is approximately 0.5 miles. The descent to the base is steeper and adds to the overall hiking effort.
While there isn't specific mention of restrooms directly at the falls, the area has been improved with ample parking and a picnic area, suggesting some facilities may be available nearby.
Swimming at Soco Falls is not recommended due to the steep terrain, strong currents, and safety concerns. Visitors are advised to stay on established trails and heed warning signs.
The accessible viewing platform is great for families. However, the steep trail down to the base may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, but the falls are impressive at any time. Visiting after rain will provide the most dramatic water flow for your photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire scene. Consider a tripod for longer exposures, especially if you want to smooth out the water flow.
The main viewing platform offers a great overview. For a different perspective, the trail to the base provides close-up shots of the cascading water.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the Cherokee Indian Reservation for any restrictions before flying a drone in the Soco Falls area.
Position yourself to capture both streams of water clearly. The viewing platform offers a good vantage point, but getting closer via the trail can provide more dynamic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Families can enjoy the short walk to this platform and take in the mountain scenery. While the trail to the base is steep and may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, the upper viewing area provides a rewarding experience for everyone. Remember to bring snacks and water, and always supervise children closely. 🚶♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers
📸 Photographers
Visiting after rain will ensure the falls are at their most powerful and photogenic. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene and a tripod for smoother water effects. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Renovation of Soco Falls
The new trail is designed to be more accommodating, featuring a wooden handrail in steeper sections and a more stable surface. While it's still a hike, especially down to the base, the improvements make it more manageable for a wider range of visitors. The accessible observation area at the top provides a comfortable viewing experience for those who may not be able to navigate the steeper paths.
+3These upgrades aim to enhance safety and visitor experience while preserving the natural beauty of the double waterfall. The improvements have been met with positive feedback, with many appreciating the increased accessibility and amenities.
Navigating the Soco Falls Trail
For those seeking a closer encounter, a steeper trail branches off, leading down towards the base of the falls. This path is more challenging, often described as a 'hike' rather than a 'walk,' and can involve loose gravel and steep inclines. Ropes and handrails are provided in some of the most challenging sections to assist hikers. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, such as hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes, as the terrain can be slippery, especially after rain.
Visitors are strongly advised to heed all posted warning signs and stay on established trails. Climbing on rocks or playing in the water around the falls is dangerous and discouraged. The effort to reach the base is often described as well worth the views, offering a more immersive experience of the powerful waterfalls.
+1
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