Turtleback Falls — Attraction in Highlands

Where do I even begin. This was a magical and special day for sure. Before you start, I recommend using the bathrooms at the big tourist center. Then drive down the hill a little bit from there to the parking for the start of the trail. I took a backpack with water, towel, and a couple of snacks. The trail is a good workout. There are a few spots that definitely leave me huffing and puffing a little. As you come over a summit you will be rewarded by the view of Rainbow falls. Great spots to look at the falls and take photos from many different vantage points. After you catch you breath, trudge on up the path, not much farther and you will see Turtleback falls through the dense foliage. There are a few side pathes that take you down and open up to Turtleback falls. There is usually a good crowd of people around because, as you will start to witness, most are sliding down the falls! Thats right. There is two ways to get on the top. A rope that can be challenging but not too difficult. Just hand over hand, and walk up the rock face. I recommend wearing shoes for all of this. Its easier to walk up the rock face, more stable walking across the water, and you never know whats in water. As you get on top, inch your way across the top of the falls, to the spot of your choice to slide down. Just like PLINKO you choose your route. You then start to slide down the slippery face of the falls, and then off the falls, to freefall for a moment with the cascading water into the plunge pool. The natural flow of the water and the current pushes you out and away from the falls. Its refreshing and exciting. Keep in mind, there is no lifeguards or anything like that. So just use common sense and you will be fine. This was a special day, and also makes for a great date. It was especially nice with everything going on in the world, to get out in nature to take in some fresh air, get a little sweaty, burn some calories, enjoy the views and scenery, and maybe get a little wet at the falls. Makes for a...

This is a great place to see while HIKING. It is not a paved path, it is an earthen trail that starts at the state park, but crosses into Pisgah National Forest. The trail has a steep grade in places, and is not suitable to travel on wearing anything but sturdy shoes. Take at least 32 oz of water per person. To turtleback and back is probably close to 4 miles. The falls are beautiful but, are on a white water river. A white water river has hazards that someone who is used to going to the beach may be unfamiliar with. Swimming may not be safe, visitors have nearly drowned there. Not a good idea to bring big coolers, pool floats, and flip flops. Expect big crowds, pack a backpack, enough WATER for everyone, check the weather beforehand, have an emergency plan, don't get too close to the falls. It takes emergency responders about 10-15 minutes to get there, you may be on your own until...

WARNING: The website & the trail head map say 1.5 (2?) Miles. My walk meter said 4 miles round trip. I was under every impression this trail was going to be a moderate hike, however it is not. (I didn't read the map at the entrance until we were leaving, always read the map.) It is strenuous. If you hike regularly and enjoy a mild challenge this is the trail for you. There are approx 6 sets of steep stair cases up to the falls. If you're expecting a stroll in the park with an amazing waterfall at the end, just go to the park instead. Dont forget water, bring enough for everyone and then some.

It was a really awesome trail, very well maintained. The waterfalls were beautiful. It is definitely worth every step to get to turtle back. The natural slide was exhilarating. Very awesome hike up...