Gorges State Park North Carolina
Explore a temperate rainforest with 26 waterfalls, rugged gorges, and diverse wildlife in North Carolina's Gorges State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Gorges State Park North Carolina
Best Time
Mild weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a temperate rainforest with 26 waterfalls, rugged gorges, and diverse wildlife in North Carolina's Gorges State Park.
"Gorges is Gorgeous! Wonderful campground with full hookups, and amazing visitor center."
🥾 Hike to Rainbow Falls
The 3.9-mile roundtrip hike is worth it! Great for families, but can be challenging for little ones near the end.
🚗 Day Trip from Sapphire
Gorges State Park is a fantastic day trip from Sapphire, NC, offering stunning waterfalls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Falls
Gorges State Park
A breathtaking 3.9-mile out-and-back hike to a spectacular waterfall. Kid-friendly but can be tiring near the end.
Upper Bearwallow Falls
Gorges State Park
Another impressive cascade accessible from the park, offering a rewarding hiking experience for nature lovers.
Visitor Center
Gorges State Park
Informative exhibits on the gorge's ecology and a gift shop. Features rocking chairs with mountain views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rainforest Vibe
Plan for Waterfall Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Hike to Rainbow Falls
The 3.9-mile roundtrip hike is worth it! Great for families, but can be challenging for little ones near the end.
🚗 Day Trip from Sapphire
Gorges State Park is a fantastic day trip from Sapphire, NC, offering stunning waterfalls.
💧 Waterproof Footwear
Essential for exploring the rainforest trails and getting close to the beautiful waterfalls.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails are well-maintained and dog-friendly, with visitors noting positive interactions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Hike to Rainbow Falls
The 3.9-mile roundtrip hike is worth it! Great for families, but can be challenging for little ones near the end.
🚗 Day Trip from Sapphire
Gorges State Park is a fantastic day trip from Sapphire, NC, offering stunning waterfalls.
💧 Waterproof Footwear
Essential for exploring the rainforest trails and getting close to the beautiful waterfalls.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails are well-maintained and dog-friendly, with visitors noting positive interactions.
🏕️ Book Camping Early
Campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends; book in advance for the best sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Gorges State Park's stunning waterfalls and lush rainforest environment, calling it 'gorgeous.' The well-maintained trails, clean campgrounds, and helpful staff, particularly campground hosts, are frequently praised. While the park offers a fantastic natural escape, some find the hikes to be moderately challenging, and dining options are limited to picnics within the park.
"Gorges is Gorgeous! Wonderful campground with full hookups, and amazing visitor center.
There are lots of hiking trails including access to the Foothills Trail.
We hiked to Rainbow Falls which is about 3 miles round trip. It was worth the hike!"
Tracy Hagen
"I stayed at the campground and it was really nice. The campsites were close but somewhat secluded. It was nicely spread out with the where the cabins were in one area, tents another, and RVs in their area. The bathrooms were clean and they had showers. They had potable water spigots throughout the campgrounds. It was cool watching the bats fly are nightly and hearing the whip-or-wills calling. The campground host Connie and her dog were super helpful and engaging. She was the best campground host I’ve ever encountered. She made rounds checking on you, called you by name, and asked about your day. She definitely went above and beyond and is an asset to the park staff.
The park was beautiful and well maintained. Nice trails and beautiful waterfalls. You can see some wildlife. Raymond Fisher pond is nice and peaceful, a great place to sit and meditate. I was lucky enough to see an elusive white squirrel in the park but missed a photo opportunity.
The visit center and gift shop nice. Definitely worth a visit. Nice informative movie on the gorge and ecology. They also had picnic tables around the building and rocking chairs facing the mountains in the distance."
michiganamygirl
"5/2025 Great place to go camping. Fills up on week-ends. Rainbow Falls and Upper Bearwallow Falls access from the park. Bathrooms and showers are cleaned daily. Rangers are very helpful in answering any questions you may have about the area."
Orrin H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gorges State Park is located in Transylvania County, North Carolina, near Sapphire, NC. It's accessible by car, and many visitors use GPS. It's also noted as being near the tripoint of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. 
Yes, the park is generally well-marked. It's considered the westernmost state park in North Carolina.
Gorges State Park is a popular day trip destination from Sapphire, NC. Driving is the most common method, and the park is easily accessible by car.
Yes, Whitewater Falls is nearby, and for a longer day trip, Cherokee and the Museum of the Cherokee People are options.
Yes, Gorges State Park offers RV camping sites, and visitors have incorporated it into RV trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gorges State Park typically does not have an entrance fee for day use, but it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updates or special event fees. Camping and specific activities may incur charges.
Park hours can vary seasonally. Generally, the park is open from dawn to dusk for day use. The visitor center may have different hours. It's recommended to check the official park website for the most current information.
For day use, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to camp, especially on weekends or holidays, booking your campsite in advance is highly recommended as they fill up quickly.
Typically, no special passes are needed for general park entry. However, if you plan on activities like fishing, you may need a North Carolina fishing license. Always check park regulations for specific requirements.
The most reliable source for information on park entry, fees, and operating hours is the official Gorges State Park website or by contacting the park directly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Rainbow Falls and Upper Bearwallow Falls are highly recommended for their stunning waterfall views. The park offers a variety of trails with accurate difficulty ratings.
Yes, many visitors find Gorges State Park family-friendly. The hike to Rainbow Falls is manageable for children, though it can be tiring near the end.
Gorges State Park is very dog-friendly! Many trails are suitable for dogs, and visitors have reported positive experiences with other park-goers and their pets.
The park is known for its biodiversity. Visitors have reported seeing bats at night, hearing whip-or-wills, and even spotting elusive white squirrels.
Yes, Gorges State Park offers camping with different areas for cabins, tents, and RVs. Campgrounds have clean bathrooms, showers, and potable water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Gorges State Park itself does not have on-site restaurants. However, there are picnic tables available around the visitor center for those who bring their own food.
Nearby Sapphire, North Carolina, offers dining options. Los Vaqueros Mexican Restaurant is mentioned as being a short drive from the park.
Absolutely! The park provides picnic tables, particularly around the visitor center, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature.
You'll likely find grocery stores in the nearby towns of Sapphire or Brevard, where you can stock up on picnic essentials before heading into the park.
Given the hiking, packing portable and energy-rich foods like sandwiches, trail mix, fruits, and plenty of water is ideal for a day trip.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfalls, especially Rainbow Falls and Upper Bearwallow Falls, are prime photography subjects. The lush rainforest scenery also offers many picturesque opportunities.
Yes, the dramatic gorges, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls make Gorges State Park an excellent location for landscape photography.
Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the waterfalls and forests. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be stunning.
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. It's essential to check the specific rules and regulations for Gorges State Park regarding drone operation before flying.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, like the white squirrels mentioned by visitors, which can provide unique and memorable photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's well-maintained trails and clear difficulty ratings make it easier for parents to choose appropriate routes. Many trails are also dog-friendly, allowing the whole family, including furry members, to enjoy the adventure. Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, as dining options within the park are limited to picnic areas. The Visitor Center offers engaging exhibits that can educate younger visitors about the local ecology. Camping is also an option, providing a more immersive nature experience, with clean facilities that are appreciated by families.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Don't miss Upper Bearwallow Falls for another rewarding trek. Nature lovers will appreciate the park's exceptional biodiversity and the chance to spot wildlife. The lush forest environment and the sound of cascading water create an immersive experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as trails can be damp and slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls of Gorges State Park
Another notable waterfall is Upper Bearwallow Falls, also accessible from the park, offering further opportunities for hikers to experience the park's aquatic beauty. When visiting the waterfalls, it's crucial to be prepared for the terrain. The park's temperate rainforest environment means trails can be damp and slippery, especially after rain. Wearing waterproof hiking boots is highly recommended to ensure safety and comfort as you navigate the paths leading to these natural wonders.
The sheer volume of water and the lush, verdant surroundings create a truly immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Beyond the main attractions, the park's numerous other falls contribute to its reputation as a waterfall haven. Exploring these less-trafficked cascades can offer a more secluded and intimate encounter with the park's natural splendor. Always check trail conditions before heading out, as some paths may be more challenging or require specific footwear.
Camping and Visitor Experience
The Visitor Center is another highlight, offering an informative movie about the gorge and its ecology, alongside a gift shop. Many appreciate the thoughtful amenities like picnic tables and rocking chairs facing the mountains, providing a relaxing spot to take in the views.
For those seeking adventure, the park's trails are generally well-maintained, and the difficulty ratings are considered accurate, which is a valuable aid for planning hikes. The dog-friendly nature of the park is also a significant plus for many visitors who enjoy exploring with their pets.
The Unique Temperate Rainforest Ecosystem
Unlike tropical rainforests, this cooler, wetter zone boasts a distinct blend of flora and fauna adapted to its specific conditions. The park's location near the tripoint of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia further contributes to its ecological significance. This rich environment is characterized by dense forests, abundant moisture, and a variety of plant and animal life. The high concentration of waterfalls is a direct result of the abundant rainfall and the rugged topography of the gorges. Exploring these trails offers a chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant, green world, with the sounds of rushing water and the scent of damp earth filling the air.
+1The park's commitment to preserving this delicate ecosystem is evident in its well-maintained trails and informative visitor center. Understanding the unique ecological aspects of this temperate rainforest enhances the appreciation for the natural beauty and the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
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