Linville Falls Trail at Linville Gorge
Linville Falls Trail is one of the most beloved—and most photographed—hikes in Western North Carolina. With three incredible viewpoints, well-maintained paths, and the thundering drama of a 90-foot waterfall plunging into Linville Gorge, this is a short hike that delivers big payoffs.
POST-HURRICANE UPDATE: Linville Gorge Wilderness is open. However, visitors may experience temporary closures at the following locations as construction progresses through the Old NC 105 corridor: Pinch In Trailhead, Conley Cove Trailhead, Wisemans View, Babel Tower Trailhead, Cabin Trailhead, Bynum Bluff Trailhead, Pine Gap Trailhead, Linville Falls Trailhead, Linville Falls Cabin Site. For current trail conditions, visit AllTrails.
- Length: 1 mileDuration of Hike: 1 hourElevation Gain: 82 feetBlazes: NoFeatures: Waterfalls, Views, Kid Friendly, Pet Friendly, Open Trail
One hike, three epic views
This trail is designed with casual hikers and families in mind—wide, well-marked, and full of scenic payoff. You’ll visit three key overlooks, each offering a unique vantage point on Linville Falls and the deep gorge carved by the Linville River.
- Upper Falls View (0.5 miles): A paved path leads to your first stop—a calm cascade that quickly drops into a narrow chasm, signaling the waterfall’s immense power.
- Chimney View (0.7 miles): From here, you’ll see the full plunge of Linville Falls into the gorge, framed by jagged cliffs and lush canopy.
- Erwins View (1.0 mile): The final overlook offers a sweeping panorama of the gorge, river, and distant Blue Ridge ridgelines—an ideal spot to linger with a camera or snack.
What To Expect
You’ll start your hike at the Linville Falls Visitor Center, where restrooms, maps, and picnic tables are available. The trail begins near the map kiosk and follows a gentle climb through a mix of hardwood and rhododendron forest.
Expect mostly packed dirt and gravel underfoot. It’s an out-and-back trail, so you’ll return the same way after reaching Erwins View. You can complete the hike in about an hour, but plan extra time to enjoy the views or grab a snack on a bench along the way.
Planning a longer day? The nearby Plunge Basin Trail offers a more rugged adventure down into the gorge for a closer view of the falls from below.
Directions
From downtown Asheville, take I-40 East to Exit 85 (Marion). Follow US-221 North toward Linville Falls for about 28 miles. At the intersection with the Blue Ridge Parkway, head north (left) on the Parkway to Milepost 316.4. The Linville Falls Visitor Center and parking area will be on your right.
Scenic Option: Take the Blue Ridge Parkway from Asheville all the way to Milepost 316.4 (approx. 66 miles). It’s slower, but especially rewarding in spring or fall.
GPS Coordinates
35.9425, -81.9282
