Some of Western North Carolina’s most memorable waterfalls can be enjoyed from roadside overlooks, short paths and scenic mountain drives.
Use this guide to plan an easy waterfall drive from Asheville, with stops that require little to no hiking. Before you go, check current road conditions, park only in designated areas, stay behind railings and follow posted signs. Waterfall rocks are slick, roadside pull-offs can fill quickly and mountain roads may close temporarily due to weather, maintenance or storm recovery.
Where can I see roadside waterfalls near Asheville?
Looking Glass Falls
Snap a photo for the ‘gram of one of the most photographed waterfalls in the South. Find this 60-foot beauty in the Pisgah National Forest only 35 miles from Asheville. Park along US Highway 276 and head to the accessible observation deck and down the stairs to the base of the falls. The name comes from nearby Looking Glass Rock, where water freezes on its sides in the winter and glistens in the sun like a mirror.
Soco Falls
Soco Falls is a scenic double waterfall tucked just off Highway 19 between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, near the Blue Ridge Parkway at Soco Gap. The site has recently reopened following improvements to parking, trail access and the viewing experience. A short walk leads to the observation area; use caution if continuing beyond the main viewing platform, as steeper routes can be slippery.
Glassmine Falls
From the overlook at Milepost 361.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, spot this ribbon of water, named for an old mine nearby, cascading down a rock cliff across the valley. Located about 25 miles north of Asheville near Craggy Gardens, it is most impressive after a good rain.
Toxaway Falls
Toxaway Falls drops below the Lake Toxaway Dam along Highway 64, where drivers can glimpse the water from the bridge area. Use only safe, legal pull-offs, stay on pedestrian areas and never stop in the roadway for photos. If you continue along Highway 64, you’ll be following part of Western North Carolina’s waterfall-rich mountain corridor toward Highlands.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls near Highlands is a 60-foot roadside cascade along US Highway 64. It is one of the easiest waterfalls in the Highlands area to view by car, but parking is limited and traffic can be busy along the narrow mountain road. Pull over only where it is safe and legal.
Dry Falls
Just beyond Bridal Veil Falls near Highlands, Dry Falls offers a short paved path to viewing areas and the rare chance to walk behind the waterfall. The path can be wet and slippery, and spray may vary with water levels, so wear sturdy shoes and stay behind railings.
