ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Western North Carolina is a waterfall wonderland. Just because winter is here doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the falls. In fact, they can be even more spectacular during the colder months, when many turn into icy marvels.
Two main routes allow you to enjoy the falls from the warmth of your vehicle.
There are more than 250 waterfalls near Brevard, many accessible off U.S. 64, known as the Waterfall Byway. On the stretch between Rosman and Murphy, travelers can visit many falls, including the spectacular 120-foot Bridal Veil Falls. Those who stop at Dry Falls will discover the reason for its name.
Not surprisingly, this scenic byway takes visitors through “the land of waterfalls,” some of the most beautiful sights in the mountains of North Carolina.
Length: 98 miles
Drive time: 3.5 hours
Note: Tractor-trailer trucks are prohibited on this road, and it is not recommended for recreational vehicles or buses.
Begin in Rosman at the juncture of highways 64 and 215. Head west on U.S. 64, and soon you’ll be at Toxaway Falls. Pass through the town of Cashiers, which borders the town of Highlands, and before long you’ll come upon the beautiful 60-foot Bridal Veil Falls. Less than a mile from Bridal Veil Falls is Dry Falls. Both are in Nantahala National Forest.
Toxaway Falls: The road passes over the top of Toxaway Falls on the Toxaway River, and there’s a nice wide shoulder on the dam side to pull over, park and take a look. Lake Toxaway is on the upper side of the road. On the opposite side of the road, Toxaway Falls spills and slides over colorful bedrock in a 240-foot elevation change before the river disappears into the forest.
Bridal Veil Falls: Bridal Veil Falls near Highlands has been famous for generations as the only waterfall in North Carolina you can drive behind. However, the section of road behind the falls is now blocked from automobiles for safety. This allows you to walk behind and enjoy it more. It’s 120 feet from the top of the falls to the pavement.
Dry Falls: One of the rare waterfalls that you can walk behind, this roadside stop near Highlands is a must-see year-round. The 75-foot tall waterfall in Nantahala National Forest flows over a cliff, allowing you to walk behind the falls.
Drift Falls (Bust Yer Butt Falls): Drift Falls is a sliding cascade that drops into a huge, deep pool. It has a fairly high water volume.
Click here to see a map of the Waterfall Byway route.
The Forest Heritage Scenic Byway takes travelers past the ice cliffs along N.C. 215 near the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic mountain drive through Pisgah National Forest is highlighted by beautiful mountain scenery and is a great way to explore Pisgah National Forest and iconic places like Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls and Looking Glass Rock along with way.
Length: 79 miles
Drive time: 2 hours
Note: N.C. 215 and U.S. 276, have 9 percent grades and curves, so the scenic byway is not recommended for recreational vehicles or buses.
Looking Glass Falls: This longtime favorite roadside waterfall in Pisgah National Forest can be seen from the parking area — or take the steps down for a close-up view.
Sliding Rock: This popular natural water slide near Looking Glass Falls is open year-round for viewing during daylight hours.
Click here to see a map of the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway.
Brave the winter cold snaps to check out the ice created by the mists from are waterfalls. Not only are the ice formations incredible, but the falls usually aren’t crowded in winter.
Remember, you should always watch the weather forecast before heading out.
Click here to find out how to get a copy of the North Carolina Byways Guidebook and begin exploring the roads less traveled.