Hike to Linville Falls
North Carolina › Linville Falls Visitor Center
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Activities:
Photography, Hiking
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Skill Level:
Beginner
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Season:
Year Round
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Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
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RT Distance:
1 Miles
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Elevation Gain:
100 Feet
This waterfall is easy to access 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.
I'd recommend taking Irwin Trail Overlook or scaling down to the base of the waterfall. Go during the week to avoid crowds.
5 months ago
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.
7 months ago
The falls are easy to access but it's quite difficult to go out onto the rocks to gain closer views of the falls. I went there on a Sunday morning around 10am and it was packed. If you plan to do this at the weekend, get there early!
about 1 year ago
Fun and easy hike. We went with a large group of girls. The paths are very well marked/paved out. Beautiful falls. Pack a lunch and hang out on the rocks once you reach the base.
over 1 year ago
This was an awesome half day hike and has some spots that make for some killer photos. Plus with the National Forest and National Park Services having parking lots the access is very convenient.
over 1 year ago
