Leatherwood Falls

Leatherwood Falls , Hayesville NC

About Leatherwood Falls

Tucked in the Nantahala National Forest, Leatherwood Falls is a picturesque waterfall in Clay County, just minutes from Hayesville. The 30-foot cascading waterfall spills over a rocky ledge into Fires Creek, creating a tranquil setting for picnics and relaxation. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this accessible site highlights the appeal of North Carolina mountain properties. Its proximity to Lake Chatuge enhances its allure for outdoor enthusiasts.

Waterfalls of Hayesville

Leatherwood Falls, a serene 30-foot waterfall in Clay County’s Nantahala National Forest, captivates visitors near Hayesville, NC. Its gentle flow into Fires Creek makes it a gem on NC mountain hiking trails. Accessible via a short path from the Fires Creek Picnic Area, this waterfall offers a peaceful retreat for those exploring North Carolina mountain homes, or Hayesville NC waterfalls, blending natural beauty with the charm of Western North Carolina’s outdoor lifestyle.

Features

Leatherwood Falls is reached via a short, 0.1-mile trail from the Fires Creek Picnic Area, making it one of the easiest NC mountain hiking trails. The path, surrounded by hardwood forests, leads to a clearing with clear views of the falls. The picnic area offers tables and grills, perfect for a day out hiking Hayesville NC waterfalls.  The falls’ gentle flow and shallow pool are ideal for wading or photography, especially in spring.

Leatherwood waterfall in Hayesville NC
Fires Creek swimming hole
Firescreek in Hayesville NC
Fires Creek wilderness area
Hayesville NC Firescreek
Fires Creek Wilderness walking bridge
Fires-Creek-walking-bridge(3)
Fires Creek hiking trail
Deck above Leatherwood falls
Leatherwood waterfall in Hayesville NC
Fires Creek recreation area

Visitor Information

  • Fall size: 30 feet

  • Length of hike: 0.1 mile one way (0.2 miles round-trip)

  • Activities: Hiking, picnicking, photography

  • Facilities: Picnic tables, grills

  • Fees: None

  • Closest town: Hayesville, North Carolina

  • Terrain rating: Easy; flat, well-maintained path, suitable for all ages

  • Directions to trailhead:

    From Hayesville, NC, drive west on US-64 for about 4.8 miles, then turn right onto Fires Creek Road (SR 1344). Follow it for 3.8 miles, turn left onto Fires Creek Wildlife Road, and drive 1.9 miles to the Fires Creek Picnic Area parking lot. Leatherwood Falls is a short 0.3-mile hike from there, offering a serene 25-30 foot waterfall view.

    From Murphy, drive 15 miles east on US-64 toward Hayesville. Turn left on Fires Creek Rd (SR 1344), drive 3 miles to Fires Creek Picnic Area. Park and follow the Leatherwood Falls Trail 0.3 miles to the waterfall

  • Open year-round; ample parking at the picnic area

  • Best visited in spring or early summer for optimal water flow

  • Dogs are welcome but must be leashed

  • No restrooms; bring water and snacks

  • Check weather, as the path may be muddy after rain

  • Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the area

Contact

  • For waterfall inquiries: Contact the U.S. Forest Service – Tusquitee Ranger District

    • Phone: (828) 837-5152

    • Address: 123 Woodland Dr, Murphy, NC 28906

    • Website: www.fs.usda.gov/nfsnc

    • Instructions: Call Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, for trail conditions or regulations

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