Hickory Nut Falls

The trail to Hickory Nut Falls winds through a mature hardwood forest along the base of the cliffs that form Hickory Nut Gorge. Interpretive signs point out the plants, birds and rock formations along the way, and benches and picnic spots give hikers plenty of reasons to slow down. The falls themselves appeared in The Last of the Mohicans, and standing at their base, framed by towering granite, it's easy to see why filmmakers came looking for this view.

What Can I Expect at Hickory Nut Falls?

From the lower parking area below the Chimney, the trail sets off into a cool, shaded hardwood forest and stays that way for nearly the entire walk. The path rolls gently with a few moderate climbs and some rocky stretches, but nothing that should trouble most hikers, and benches and picnic tables appear regularly if you want to rest or take in the scenery.

Along the way, the trail meets the Four Seasons Trail, a steeper connector that drops down to the park's main entrance for those looking to shorten or extend their walk. Keep straight to stay on course for the falls.

Near the end, a short set of stairs climbs to the viewing platform at the base of the falls, where the full 404-foot drop comes into view against the cliff face. The mist off the falls offers welcome relief on a warm day, even if swimming isn't in the cards here.

Because the trail sits inside a paid attraction, expect to share it with other visitors, especially on weekends and during peak fall color. Arriving early tends to mean a quieter walk.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hickory Nut Falls?

Hickory Nut Falls changes with the seasons, and so does the hike leading to it. Spring rains and snowmelt send the falls roaring at their fullest, and wildflowers line the trail. Summer brings warm, shaded hiking, though the falls can slow to a trickle during dry spells. Fall color along the gorge is a major draw, so trails and parking fill quickly. Winter can bring dramatic ice formations on the cliff face after a hard freeze, though the trail may be slick.

If a full, roaring waterfall is the goal, plan your visit for a day or two after a good rain.

How Do I Get There?

From downtown Asheville: Take I-240 East to Exit 9 toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Highway 74A East. Continue on 74A East for about 20 miles. The entrance to Chimney Rock State Park is on the right, roughly 25 to 27 miles from downtown.

From West Asheville: Take I-26 East toward Hendersonville, then Exit 49A toward Bat Cave and Highway 64 East. Continue on 64 East for about 18 miles to the park entrance.

Tip: Timed-entry reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Purchase tickets in advance through the park's website to avoid a wait at the gate.

Know Before You Go

• Admission to Chimney Rock State Park is required to access this trail, and pricing and hours vary by season. Check current rates and hours before you go.
• Timed-entry reservations are recommended, particularly during peak weekends and fall color season.
• The last stretch of trail includes a short set of stairs, so it's not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
• Climbing on the rocks or entering the pool at the base of the falls isn't permitted.
• Waterfall flow varies with rainfall and can slow to a trickle during dry summer stretches.
• Dogs are welcome on a leash no longer than six feet.
• Restrooms, a gift shop and dining are available near the upper parking area and ticket plaza.
• The trail connects to the Four Seasons Trail, a steeper, shorter route to the park's main entrance.