CEDAR MOUNTAIN, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If you’re planning a hike this weekend, here’s some good news: DuPont State Recreational Forest has reopened the popular Triple Falls Trail to foot traffic after temporary repairs.
“Hurricane Helene created a historic level of flooding across Western North Carolina, including the Little River watershed that contains well-known waterfalls such as Triple Falls and High Falls,” Jason Guidry, forest supervisor for DSRF, said in a news release. “The flooding extended into the lower section of Triple Falls Trail, causing severe and deep erosion.”
Flooding partially washed away the steps at Triple Falls. An engineering firm has inspected the remaining steps and determined they will require extensive repairs or replacement to be safe for public use.
“We are excited to reopen Triple Falls Trail to our visitors,” Jane Dauster, recreation specialist for DSRF, said in the news release. “Unfortunately, we are not yet able to reopen the hurricane-damaged Grassy Creek bridge or the Triple Falls steps.”
Grassy Creek bridge is at the intersection of Buck Forest and Lake Imaging roads. During Helene, flooding piled debris against the side of the bridge, causing tremendous pressure to the bridge and forcing water to both sides, resulting in deep streambank erosion into the stream channel.
Engineers have deemed the Grassy Creek bridge unsafe for use, according to a news release. Designers are developing plans for a new bridge, with construction expected to begin in early 2026. Until then, the area remains fenced off and closed to the public because of safety concerns and to protect nearby natural habitats.
“We ask that visitors respect the closures that we have clearly marked for Grassy Creek bridge and Triple Falls steps,” Guidry said. “We’ve had several individuals ignore our signs, and they have left the forest with tickets that include fees, fines and possible criminal charges.”
DSRF officials estimate that more than 700,000 people hike Triple Falls Trail every year. The less than half-mile long trail is only open to foot traffic and allows visitors to hike to Hooker Falls, Triple Falls and High Falls from a single access area.
Visitors wishing to hike Triple Falls Trail should park at the Hooker Falls access area or the High Falls access area. In addition, visitors are encouraged to click here for the latest information about trail closures when planning a visit to DSRF.