Dry Falls Highlands NC
About Dry Falls
Perched in Macon County’s Nantahala National Forest, Dry Falls is a 65-foot waterfall, 40 miles from Murphy, and and 20 miles from Hayesville, NC the waterfall is near Highlands. Named for the ability to walk behind its flow without getting wet, this US-64 gem is a family favorite. Its accessibility highlights the captivating appeal of NC mountain properties in North Carolina’s scenic highlands.
Waterfalls of Highlands
Dry Falls, a captivating waterfall in Macon County, beckons exploration near Highlands. This iconic stop on NC mountain hiking trails, part of the Cullasaja River Gorge, offers a thrilling experience for adventurers. Positioned along the Waterfall Byway, this North Carolina waterfall, enchants with unique walk-behind experience. Its cascading curtain draws North Carolina mountain home fans, blending North Carolina’s magic with the promise of a mountain sanctuary.
Features
Dry Falls pours over a rocky overhang, allowing visitors to walk behind its cascading curtain via a 0.1-mile NC hiking trail from a parking lot. The paved path offer stunning views, ideal for families and photographers. The handicap accessible observation deck, allows the elderly and wheelchair bound patrons a great view right off the parking lot so they can participate in the joy of this beautiful location. Spring’s robust flow and misty ambiance create a magical experience. Nearby Bridal Veil Falls adds to the area’s allure.
Visitor Information
Fall size: 65 feet
Length of hike: 0.1 miles one way (0.2 miles round-trip)
Activities: Hiking, photography, walking behind waterfall
Facilities: Parking lot (~20 spaces); restrooms at trailhead
Fees: None
Closest town: Highlands, North Carolina (~3 miles)
Terrain rating: Easy; paved trail, some stairs
Directions to trailhead: From Highlands, drive 3 miles west on US-64 toward Franklin. Turn right into the Dry Falls parking lot (marked). Follow the paved trail 0.1 miles to the waterfall and observation deck
Open year-round; parking may fill on weekends
Best visited in spring for strong flow
Dogs welcome on leash
Restrooms available; bring water
Stay on trail; rocks may be slippery
Note: Confirm parking with Nantahala National Forest; trail may close during ice
Contact
For waterfall inquiries: Contact Nantahala National Forest – Nantahala Ranger District
Phone: (828) 524-6441
Address: 90 Sloan Rd, Franklin, NC 28734
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc
Instructions: Call Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:30 PM EST, for trail conditions
For North Carolina mountain homes: Contact Gary Ward of Advantage Chatuge Realty at gward828@gmail.com or +1-828-508-0803
Ready to take the next step?
Buying property is a huge investment. Having someone who keeps your interest in mind can mean the difference between a good investment and a poor one. Some realtors only look at the bottom line. Gary Ward of Advantage Chatuge Realty is an honest family man with strong values, that is why we say to always ask for Gary if you are looking for property in this area or if you are wanting to list your property here. It is the only way we can assure you that you are getting the quality, honesty, and assistance you deserve. Working as a Broker for over 25 years in the north Georgia and North Carolina Mountain area, he will show you any available property and will represent you as a buyer’s agent as long as it is not his listing, in that case he is representing the seller and he will tell you that up front. Either way, you will always know where you stand and be well-informed. His knowledge and expertise in the area will put your mind at ease.