Hike to Alarka Falls

Bryson City, North Carolina

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Distance

1 miles

Elevation Gain

100 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Johnathan Duncan

Alarka Falls is a hidden treasure of Swain County that not many people know about despite being a short drive from Bryson City and offering spectacular views of a 200' waterfall!

To visit the falls, take US-74 west from Bryson City to exit 64 . Take a left at the exit and drive on Alarka Road for about 10 miles. Follow the road all the way to the end where you will find a turnaround. Don't make the mistake of following the forest service road (it is gated), as it is not the right trail. From the turnaround you will be able to see campsites. Walk through the campsites and follow the creek toward the trail. It is not hard to find once you walk through the camping area.

The trail travels about a mile before you start to get a glimpse of the falls. Don't stop here because you'll miss the best view! Continue walking up beside the creek until you see the upper section of the falls. There are many different sections of the falls, so explore around, but remember to be safe on the slick rocks and trees. Bring a camera and if you have kids keep a good eye on them.

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Hike to Alarka Falls Reviews

Wendy Acker

Wanderer

Hike to Alarka Falls

07/28/25

Definitely not an easy trail once you get close to the falls. Lots of scrambling over rocks and roots and very steep. The first part of the trail is pretty good but there are lots of fallen logs to climb over and branches to duck under. Nice to be walking within sound of the creek the whole way. Very few people on the trail. Lots of mushrooms and rhododendron blossoms.

4.0

Explorer

Jared Beeler

Explorer

Hike to Alarka Falls

09/22/20

This waterfall is kinda hard to find but when you do it is gorgeous! One of the tallest waterfalls in the area.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to Alarka Falls

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Hike to Alarka Falls Reviews

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Explore Old 288 and the Lands Creek Bridge

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