My wife and I made the trek to Glen Falls is actually a triple waterfall near Highlands, NC. There are four great scenic overlooks along the 2-mile round-trip hike in the Nantahala National Forest.
The upper and middle cascades are the most beautiful. From the parking area, take the woodland trail downhill.
The hike, which I'd rate as moderate in difficulty, makes a gradual descent with about 400 feet in elevation change. There are quite a few switchbacks, so the climb is not too steep.
About 1/2-miles from the parking area, you'll come to the first observation deck for the upper section of the waterfall, dropping about 70 feet.
Continue the downward hike 1/ 3 miles to the middle section of the falls that drop 60 feet, with water running down a wide rock face.
At both the middle and upper sections, there are observation decks to safely view the falls.
As you hike back to the parking area, you'll see a side trail that forks to the left, past the upper section. That takes you to an observation deck on top of the upper section of the falls for a birdseye view of the waterfall and mountains.
All in all, well worth the rather...
Read more4.5 stars. A memorable hike and two cascades of beautiful falls. I wouldn't suggest going to the lowest cascade. It is mostly hidden by rhododendrons. My suggestion would be to hike down to the second cascade, which is the most beautiful of the three. It is a gorgeous step fall cascade, and has a lot of character. After enjoying the positive effects of all the negative ions from the cascade, hike back up to the first cascade before heading back to the parking lot. There are many steps created to assist your navigation of the trail. It is a pretty easy hike, but you may find it easier to walk alongside the steps. Plan to spend 2-3 hours if you take your time and enjoy the scenery; 3-4 hours if you are a serious waterfall photographer. Well worth the trip, and you can piggyback a number of other nearby falls in the one trip. Close by falls that are close to the road and don't take much time are Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Callusaja Falls.There are waterfalls everywhere around here...way more than you can see in even 20 trips. The area is waterfall heaven for...
Read moreBeautiful trail with twin Falls. Lots of steps and tree roots. The trail needs improving revisions as each step down is too deep and the trail has eroded. I found myself walking around the stairs to avoid the heavy impact on my joints on the hike down. Bring a walking stick to save your knees. I didn't, but a Carolina man older than I walking up the trail gave me his. It started to rain so I wasn't able to get many good pictures this time. I did capture a beautiful mountain view. The falls are extra beautiful when the water is flowing high from above. In August the falls are not as spectacular but lacey. The trail is very close to the Town of Highlands and makes for a nice hike after a delighful lunch stop in town. Bring a change of shoes, the trail can get muddy. There are no fees or restrooms, so come prepared and don't let the little inconveniences stop you from experiencing these beautiful twin falls. ...
Read more