Soco Falls, nestled amidst the lush forests of the Cherokee Indian Reservation near Cherokee, North Carolina, is a cascading wonder that deserves a perfect 5-star rating. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline rush or a tranquil escape, Soco Falls offers something for everyone.
A Double Dose of Beauty: Soco Falls isn't just one waterfall, it's two! Witness the upper cascade tumble over moss-covered rocks before merging with the lower falls, creating a powerful torrent that plunges into a refreshing pool below. The layered effect and the surrounding lush vegetation create a picture-perfect scene that will leave you breathless.
Challenge or Relaxation, You Choose: Soco Falls caters to a variety of preferences. For thrill-seekers, a short, but slightly challenging, trail leads to a viewing platform that offers a glimpse of the falls' majesty. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, an easily accessible upper viewpoint provides a safe and stunning perspective.
A Family Adventure: The short trail leading to the viewing platform makes Soco Falls a great destination for families with children. The excitement of the cascading water and the beauty of the surrounding forest create a memorable experience for all ages. Just be sure to supervise young children closely, especially near the edges.
Immerse Yourself in Nature: Soco Falls is more than just a waterfall; it's a gateway to a natural wonderland. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, listen to the calming sounds of cascading water, and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife. You might spot birds soaring through the trees or squirrels scampering across the forest floor.
A Photographer's Paradise: The combination of cascading water, lush greenery, and sunlight filtering through the leaves creates a photographer's dream. Capture the raw power of the falls, the intricate details of the surrounding landscape, or the joy on your family's faces – Soco Falls offers endless photographic opportunities.
Overall, Soco Falls is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Cherokee area. The cascading beauty of the double falls, the variety of viewpoints, and the surrounding natural splendor make it a perfect 5-star...
Read moreSoco Falls – Trail Closed? …We Found Out Why 😅
We pulled up to Soco Falls and saw a little “Trail Closed” sign just off to the side of the path. Not blocking it. Not centered. Just chillin’ like a suggestion. So naturally, we said, “Eh… we’ll just check it out.”
Well. Now we know why the trail is closed. 😂
That descent is NO JOKE. Steep doesn’t even begin to describe it—it was like nature’s version of a slip ‘n slide, minus the water and with way more roots. Honestly though? 100% worth it. The falls are absolutely beautiful. We went all the way down to the bottom and it felt like we were standing in the middle of a secret forest fantasy. Mist in the air, water roaring, completely surrounded by green. Unreal.
But let me tell you—the way back up? That’s where the trail fights back. My calves are still filing a formal complaint. I had to take “reflective pauses” every 10 feet just to survive. By the time we got back to the top, we felt like we’d just auditioned for Survivor: Blue Ridge Edition.
Food for thought, folks: if you really don’t want people to go down there, maybe put the “Trail Closed” sign in the middle of the walkway. Because if you leave it off to the side? We’re going in. 😎
Still, it was a blast. Sketchy? A little. Beautiful? Absolutely. Would I do it again? …Yes. Just with better shoes and maybe a...
Read moreSadly we didn't get there til shortly before sunset, so we didn't get to stay as long as we wanted to nor did we get to explore past the observation deck. It is an absolutely stunning site to see! We plan on returning again soon. When trying to locate the pull off look for a gravel area off the side of the road and it is in a curve. There is a guard rail as well as a chain link fence and a couple Trash cans. There is an opening in the guard rail and fence that leads to the falls. A cute lil stone bench is at the start of the trail. The trail is steep and narrow. It is also very slick when raining or right after it rains( it had rained most of the day and was still drizzling when we arrived). Not much to hold to til you get to the observation deck which has ample space to move around and get a few pics. There is a guide rope tied to the observation deck and the other end is tied to a tree off to the left and down part of the steep trail leading to the bottom. We didn't get to go to the bottom since it was dark after we took some pics and gazed at the beauty of it from the deck. Here's a few pics that aren't to good due to the weather and time of our visit! You will not be disappointed by taking the short trail to seek out this...
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