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Linville Falls Trail

Newland, North Carolina

4.1/5
based on 9 reviews

Details

Distance

0.98 miles

Elevation Gain

177 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Elyse Clark

Linville Falls is an easy-to-access waterfall from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take a short walk from the Visitor Center to take in this 90-foot waterfall.

Linville falls is one of North Carolina's treasures and perhaps the most photographed water fall in the state. Bring the whole family out and explore the area surrounding the falls. There are about 4 total miles of trails meandering around and through the gorge and right up to the falls. There are plenty of picnic spaces and large flat rocks near the creek where you can relax, take in some sun, and picnic between exploring.

Begin at the Linville Falls Visitor Center and follow signs towards the Falls Trail which will lead directly to the falls. This trail will intersect with several others so don't be afraid to see where they'll lead you. Depending on how adventurous you're feeling, the best bet may be to go all the way up to the falls first, then explore from there or back track and find the other trails. There are maps at the visitor center you can use to help navigate the trail system as well.

There are more direct driving routes to Linville Falls, but the drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway is leisurely, especially scenic, and only an extra 30 minutes. Drive about 6 miles north out of Asheville on NC694 and merge onto the Parkway. Follow for about 60 miles and look for the turn onto Linville Falls Road, following it all the way to the end where you'll find the visitor center.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Forest
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall

Linville Falls Trail Reviews

Lots to see on this out-and-back trail. Seems to be a very touristy spot so expect a lot of people. To get to some of the different view points, there is definitely a noticeable moderate elevation gain that can get a little challenging at a few places. Overall, still a good trail with a few different perspectives of the Linville Falls area.

It was very beautiful and a clear trail

Can't really go wrong with Linville Falls. Its a crowd pleaser, so if you're looking for a short hike for the family, this is it.

Easy trail off the Parkway with some nice views of the falls. Have been there a few times.

I'd recommend taking Irwin Trail Overlook or scaling down to the base of the waterfall. Go during the week to avoid crowds.

Super easy hike with some nice views. Couldn't figure out how to get down to the bottom of the falls but saw some folks down there. I'd recommend it but definitely try to go when theres not a lot of people. Would be very crowded otherwise.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Take in the View at the Chestoa View Overlook

Hike the Conley Cove Trail into Linville Gorge

Photograph Hawksbill Mountain at Sunrise or Sunset

Hawksbill Mountain Trail

Little Table Rock Trail

Hike to the Summit of Table Rock Mountain