Hike to High Falls & Triple Falls

Just an hour south of Asheville, the hike to High Falls and Triple Falls is perfect for a day trip and friendly for all ages and abilities. It's a super short and easy hike with big bang for buck value. Both falls provide ample open, flat rock right up next to the massive falls where you can picnic, take photos, or just lounge in the sun and mist. There are signs saying so, but be sure to be careful near the waters edge below the falls - swimming is not allowed as the current can be very strong.

Park at Hooker Creek parking lot, walk south, cross the creek and look to the left for the Triple Falls Trail. Follow the clearly marked trail as it parallels Little River and you'll reach Triple Falls after about a half mile. Just after the falls, the trail will split - either direction will lead to High Falls, just be sure to keep an eye out for High Falls Trail as you walk. All the trails are well marked so you shouldn't have trouble finding both waterfalls once on the main trail.

To get to the Hooker Creek parking lot from Asheville, head out of town on I-240 West and exit onto I-26 East. Drive 26 miles on the 26 until you reach Hendersonville where you'll exit onto US-64 West. Take exit 49B off of the 64 West and turn right onto Kanuga Road. Follow Kanuga, eventually turning into Crab Creek Road, for 16 miles until a left hand turn onto Staton Road. Drive 3 miles on Staton and you'll reach the parking lot at Hooker Creek.

Photo: Ryan G. Smith