Cullowhee Falls is a breath-taking, 150-foot, multi-tiered waterfall in Cullowhee, North Carolina within the Nantahala National Forest. Also known as High Falls, it runs along the West Fork Tuckasegee River just downstream from the Lake Glenville dam. The hike is moderate to strenuous depending on the route you choose. Either way, with spectacular views and swimming holes at the end, it's so worth it! On dam release days, this waterfall becomes extra powerful as well.
Cullowhee Falls is accessible via two different trailheads: the Cullowhee Falls North Trailhead and the Cullowhee Falls South Trailhead. From the northern trailhead, which starts at the orange gate, it's about 2 miles. Along this trail, you'll also pass Thurston Hatcher Falls. From the south, it's 0.7 miles to the falls. Though it's shorter, there are a lot of steps you will need to conquer in order to reach and depart from the falls. Along this trail, you'll encounter First Falls. Nearby as well is Onion Falls where the West Fork Tuckasegee River meets Glenville Lake.
Overall, I absolutely loved this waterfall. There are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore around the base. You can also climb to the mid-point of the falls and get even cooler views of the gorge. However, it's worth noting that the area can be crowded with kayakers eager to paddle the river on and after release days. Additionally, there are resident copperheads in the area, especially around the rocks surrounding the waterfall. Keep this in mind when gearing up and hiking in the area.
Google Location: Cullowhee Falls North Trailhead, 358-1486 State Rd 1158, Glenville, NC 28736 / Cullowhee Falls South Trail Head, 2 Lt 1, Cullowhee, NC 28723
GPS Location: 35.2041° N, 83.1599° W
Parking: Roadside pull-off (North) / Lot (South)
Total Hike: 4 miles (via North Trail) / 1.3 miles (via South Trail)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: Yes, with leash
GPS Location: 35.2041° N, 83.1599° W
Parking: Roadside pull-off (North) / Lot (South)
Total Hike: 4 miles (via North Trail) / 1.3 miles (via South Trail)
Wheelchair Accessible: No
Admission: Free
Open: 24/7
Swimming: Yes
Pets: Yes, with leash
