Courthouse Falls

Courthouse Falls is a beautiful, 40-foot waterfall tucked away in the Pisgah National Forest near Balsam Grove, North Carolina. Previously a fairly accessible destination, the falls now see fewer crowds due to storm damage from Hurricane Helene in October 2024 along Courthouse Creek Road. 

There are two ways to reach this waterfall. The easiest route now is via the Summey Cove Trail. From the Courthouse Falls Lower Trailhead, hike roughly 1.9 miles along Summey Cove Trail until you see a blue-blazed tree on the right. When looking at the tree, you'll see an obvious path going left towards the falls and a less obvious path going right. Take the obvious path left, and the falls will come into view.

The other route that utilizes the upper trailhead used to be the easier route, but since the closure of Courthouse Creek Road to vehicles, hikers must now start at the beginning of the road, which is the new trailhead located at 35.2479° N, 82.8881° W. There is a small pull-off for 1-2 vehicles. From there, hike up the road for 3.25 miles until you reach the Summey Cove Trail on the left after crossing a one-lane bridge. Take this trail for 0.3 miles until you see a blue-blazed tree on the left. When looking at the tree, you'll see an obvious path going left towards the falls and a less obvious path going right. Take the obvious path left, and the falls will come into view. If opting for this route, the hike is about 7.2 miles in total.

However you decide to arrive, this waterfall has a beautiful swimming hole that would be great in the summer and is very peaceful to admire!

Looking for a little extra adventure? The same trailhead can be used for Cody Falls and Chestnut Falls.

Trailhead Locations: Courthouse Falls - Lower Trailhead, NC-215, Balsam Grove, NC 28708 / 35.2479° N, 82.8881° W
GPS Location: 35.2717° N, 82.8940° W
Parking: Roadside
Total Hike: 3.8 miles / 7.2 miles
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: Yes, with leash