Elk River Falls Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Swimming · Waterfall

This is a short trail to one of the best waterfalls in northwestern North Carolina. From the parking area, head north on Elk River Falls Trail for 0.1 mile. On USFS mapping, this is referred to as Big Falls.

The trail is very busy during summer months as the falls basin is a popular swimming hole. Please do not jump off the falls! The water is plenty deep in the basin but the falls have a strong undertow that has claimed several lives. Be smart so the Forest Service does not fence off this wonderful falls area.