Linville Gorge is most famous for its namesake waterfall Linville Falls, but there is another brilliant cascade hidden about 6 miles south along the gorge: Cathedral Falls, a 65-foot gem that flows right into the Linville River.
Cathedral Falls is not commonly referenced online, nor is it listed on Google Maps. This waterfall can be accessed via the Spence Ridge Trailhead, which begins along FS-210, a gravel road in the Pisgah National Forest. From the trailhead, you'll hike 1.5 miles until you reach Linville Gorge. From there, you'll need to cross the gorge. Previously there was a bridge here, and you may find evidence of it, but it no longer exists, so you'll need to do some rock hopping to get across. Once on the other side, you'll want to locate where the bridge was previously bolted in. Once you find this location, the trail ascends up and to the left, eventually reaching the Linville Gorge Trail. Continue for 0.2 miles until you see Cathedral Falls come into view on the opposite side of the gorge. A small and steep spur trail will be visible descending down towards the river. Take this trail into the gorge for the best view of the falls and enjoy! Then return the way you came.
Google Location: Spence Ridge Trailhead, Morganton, NC 28655
GPS Location: 35.9022° N, 81.8964° W
Parking: Roadside
Total Hike: 3.4 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: Yes, with leash
GPS Location: 35.9022° N, 81.8964° W
Parking: Roadside
Total Hike: 3.4 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: Yes, with leash
