Looking for waterfalls, swimming holes and river tubing near Asheville? Western North Carolina is filled with scenic places to cool off in the summer, from easy roadside waterfalls to mountain creeks to rivers with family-friendly tubing routes.

This guide highlights waterfall hikes, swimming areas and tubing spots around Asheville and across the region. Before heading out, check current conditions, parking rules and official alerts. Mountain weather can change quickly, and some trails, roads and recreation areas may close because of flooding, storm damage, maintenance or high water.

Jump to:

Know before you go

Hurricane Helene Travel Note

Western North Carolina is still recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, and conditions at waterfalls, trails, rivers, roads and recreation areas may have changed since the storm. Some areas may have storm damage, limited access, altered riverbanks, unstable trails, debris or temporary closures.

Before visiting any waterfall, swimming hole, river access point or tubing area, check current updates from official sources, including the U.S. Forest Service, Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina State Parks, local governments and outfitters. Do not rely only on older maps, photos, social media posts or past visits when planning a trip.

Waterfall and swimming hole safety reminder

Waterfalls and swimming holes can be beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. Rocks are often slick, currents can be stronger than they appear and water levels can rise quickly after rain. Always follow posted signs, avoid climbing on waterfalls and check official sources before visiting.

Quick guide

Hooker Falls. Photo contributed by Shawn Eckroth.

Popular waterfall hikes

  • Catawba Falls
  • Looking Glass Falls
  • Moore Cove Falls
  • Hooker Falls and Triple Falls
  • Silver Run Falls

Popular swimming holes and places to cool off

  • Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area
  • Graveyard Fields
  • Lake Lure Beach (reopens May 22, 2026)
  • Sliding Rock

Popular tubing areas

  • Upper Catawba River Trail
  • French Broad River
  • Green River

Best waterfall hikes near Asheville

Catawba Falls. Photo by 828newsNOW’s Pruett Norris.

These waterfall hikes include easy roadside stops, short forest trails and scenic destinations within a day trip of Asheville.

Bubbling Spring Falls

Location: Near N.C. 215 and the Blue Ridge Parkway
Best for: A quieter waterfall stop
Good to know: Check road and trail conditions before visiting.

Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades is a lesser-known waterfall stop near N.C. 215, just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway. The modest cascade is the perfect choice for visitors looking for a quieter alternative to some of the Asheville area’s busier summer waterfall spots.

Catawba Falls

Location: Old Fort, NC
Best for: Waterfall hike, scenic views
Good to know: Check trail and parking conditions before visiting.

Catawba Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes east of Asheville, drawing visitors to a scenic trail and a dramatic waterfall near Old Fort. The hike is a strong choice for people who want a classic mountain waterfall experience within a reasonable drive of Asheville.

The area has reopened after major trail improvements, but visitors should still check U.S. Forest Service alerts before heading out. Catawba Falls is very popular on weekends. If you want solitude or a quieter experience, try to visit early or on weekdays.

Graveyard Fields

Location: Blue Ridge Parkway
Best for: Hiking, waterfalls and mountain scenery
Good to know: Parkway access and weather conditions can change quickly.

A scenic area with multiple small waterfalls, Graveyard Fields is located about an hour south of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Great for families, easier than serious waterfall hikes, and a beautiful spot for photos. Multiple loop options range from easy to moderate. If you want elevation and views without technical difficulty, this is it.

Hooker Falls & Triple Falls

Location: DuPont State Recreational Forest
Best for: Multiple waterfalls in one trip
Good to know: Parking areas can fill quickly during peak season.

DuPont State Recreational Forest remains one of the most popular waterfall areas in the region, with Hooker Falls and Triple Falls among its best-known stops. Hooker Falls is the easier swimming-oriented option, while Triple Falls is more of a hiking and viewing destination.

For 2026, visitors should be careful about specific trail access. Friends of DuPont Forest lists several closures and advisories, including Triple Falls Stairs, Flatwoods Trail, Buck Forest Road between Lake Imaging Road and Conservation Road, and multiple other trails.

Looking Glass Falls

Location: Near Brevard, NC
Best for: Easy waterfall viewing
Good to know: This is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the region.

Looking Glass Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit near Asheville. It sits along U.S. 276 in Pisgah National Forest, making it a good option for families, visitors with limited time or anyone who wants a waterfall view without a long hike. The waterfall is best as a viewing and photo stop, with caution around any wet rocks or roadside crowds. Because it is so accessible, it can become congested during peak summer travel times. Visit early in the day or on a weekday if possible.

Moore Cove Falls

Location: Pisgah National Forest near Brevard
Best for: Short waterfall hike
Good to know: A good option for visitors looking for a gentler trail.

Moore Cove Falls is an easy 0.7-mile trail located off the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is a good choice for families who want a real hike without committing to a full-day route. It is better suited for waterfall viewing and creek-side exploring than swimming.

Silver Run Falls

Location: Near Cashiers, NC
Best for: Scenic waterfall stop
Good to know: A quieter option compared with some of the region’s most crowded waterfalls.

Silver Run Falls is a scenic waterfall near Cashiers, about four miles south of town in Nantahala National Forest. The short trail makes it one of the easier waterfall stops in the area, and the pool below the falls makes it a popular warm-weather destination.

Because Silver Run Falls is relatively easy to reach, it can get crowded on hot summer days. Visitors should use caution around slick rocks, avoid diving into unfamiliar water and be respectful of the natural area.

Best swimming holes and places to cool off in Western North Carolina

These spots offer river access, lake recreation or cold mountain water, but conditions can change quickly after storms or heavy rain.

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

Location: Near Burnsville, NC
Best for: River swimming, picnicking and camping
Good to know: Check recreation area status before visiting.

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers a peaceful summer escape along the South Toe River near Burnsville. The recreation area is part of Pisgah National Forest and is popular for camping, river access, swimming, tubing and relaxing in a shaded mountain setting.

This is a good option for families or visitors who want a river day without the heavy crowds often found at the region’s best-known waterfall stops.

Laurel River Trail

Location: Near Hot Springs and Marshall, NC
Best for: Creekside hiking and river scenery
Good to know: Use caution near water and watch for changing river levels.

Laurel River Trail is a scenic, mostly level trail near Hot Springs, that follows Big Laurel Creek through Pisgah National Forest. The trail is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, dog walkers and families looking for a shaded route with creek access and mountain scenery.

The full trail runs about 3.6 miles one way, ending near the French Broad River, but visitors do not have to hike the entire route to enjoy it. The first mile passes through private property before entering national forest land, so visitors should stay on the trail and respect nearby landowners.

Laurel River Trail is not a developed swimming area, but there are places along Big Laurel Creek where visitors often wade or cool off. Water levels can change quickly after rain, and rocks along the creek can be slick. Check conditions before visiting, keep dogs leashed where required and pack out anything you bring in.

Lake Lure

Location: Lake Lure, NC
Best for: Lake recreation and family outings
Good to know: Check local updates before planning a visit.

Lake Lure is one of the biggest summer recreation updates in Western North Carolina for 2026. After Hurricane Helene caused major damage and forced extended closures, the lake has moved into a phased reopening process.

For visitors, that means Lake Lure may again be part of summer plans, but it should not be treated as fully back to normal without checking the town’s latest guidance.

The town of Lake Lure announced Lake Lure Beach will be open seven days a week, starting on May 23, 2026.

Sliding Rock

Location: Pisgah National Forest near Brevard
Best for: Natural waterslide experience
Good to know: Expect cold water and summer crowds.

Sliding Rock remains one of the most popular natural swimming spots in Western North Carolina. Located in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, the 60-foot natural water slide sends visitors down smooth rock into an 8- to 10-foot-deep pool.

Lifeguards and restrooms are available daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Visitors should expect crowds on hot summer weekends, and the parking lot may close temporarily when full.

This is one of the better options for visitors who want a classic summer swimming experience, but it is not casual wading. The water is cold and fast-moving, and the Forest Service warns that anyone who cannot swim should not slide.

River tubing near Asheville and Western North Carolina

Tubing conditions depend on water levels, weather and outfitter operations, so always check before booking.

French Broad River

Best for: Tubing, paddling and group outings
Good to know: Choose an experienced outfitter and check river conditions.
Access Points: There are numerous access points in Buncombe, Henderson, Transylvania and Madison counties. Updated access information can be found here French Broad River Access.

The French Broad River is one of the most popular tubing and paddling rivers in the Asheville area. Several outfitters offer tubing trips during the summer season, with options that vary by section, water level and trip length.

Because river conditions can change, visitors should check with outfitters before booking and follow all safety instructions.

French Broad River outfitters near Asheville

Green River

Best for: Tubing and river adventure
Good to know: Conditions can vary by section of the river.
Access Points: Many stretches are great for tubing, kayaking or canoeing. You can find updated access information here Green River Access.

The Green River is another popular tubing destination in Western North Carolina. Depending on the section, the river can offer a relaxed float or a more adventurous outing. Visitors should use a reputable outfitter, wear proper safety gear and pay close attention to water levels and weather.

Green River outfitters near Saluda

Upper Catawba River Trail

Best for: River access and outdoor recreation
Good to know: Check local access points and current conditions
Access Points: Extends from Black Bear Access on Lake James to Lookout Access on Lake Lookout Shoals, has numerous places from which to launch. Visitors can find updated access point information here Upper Catawba River Trail Access

The Upper Catawba River area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including river access and paddling or tubing options depending on conditions and local access. It can be a good choice for visitors looking beyond the most crowded summer destinations.

Before heading out, check current access, parking and safety information.

Catawba River Outfitter near Marion

Important safety reminders for waterfall hikes and swimming holes

Watch the weather

Storms can move quickly through the mountains. Heavy rain may cause flash flooding, rising water levels and dangerous currents. Avoid swimming, tubing or hiking near waterfalls during or after heavy rainfall or storms.

Stay off waterfalls

Do not climb on waterfalls or walk across the top of falls. Rocks can be extremely slippery and a fall near moving water can be serious or fatal.

Wear proper footwear

Water shoes or sturdy hiking shoes are better than flip-flops on trails, rocks and riverbanks. Many injuries happen when visitors slip on wet rocks or uneven ground.

Check official updates

Before visiting, check official updates from parks, forests, recreation areas, local governments or outfitters. Road closures, trail work, storm damage and high water can affect access.

Pack out trash

Many swimming holes and waterfall areas are heavily visited in summer. Help protect the natural beauty of these places by packing out all trash, staying on marked trails and respecting private property.

Best times to visit waterfalls and swimming holes near Asheville

For fewer crowds, visit on weekdays or earlier in the morning. Summer weekends can be busy, especially at popular spots like Looking Glass Falls, Sliding Rock, DuPont State Recreational Forest and Graveyard Fields.

Late spring and early summer often bring strong waterfall flow, while late summer conditions may vary depending on rainfall. After heavy storms, water may be high, muddy or unsafe.

Before planning your trip, check current information from official sources, including:

More from the 828newsNOW Summer Guide

This article is part of the 828newsNOW Summer in Asheville and Western North Carolina Guide. Explore more seasonal guides for waterfall hikes, swimming holes, day trips, family activities, summer events and outdoor adventures across the region.

Explore more hikes of WNC

Looking for more trails beyond waterfalls and swimming holes? Explore more Hikes of WNC guides from 828newsNOW, featuring mountain trails, scenic overlooks and outdoor adventures across Western North Carolina.