Marvel at the splendor of Asheville’s awe-inspiring waterfalls from the cozy seat of your car. As you meander your way through the Blue Ridge Mountains, those gorgeous views come easy as pie.
We’ve compiled a list of half a dozen majestic waterfalls you can easily enjoy from the road—no hiking required! Bonus: they’re all free to visit.
Looking Glass Falls
Snap a photo for the ‘gram of one of the most photographed waterfalls in the South. Find this 60-foot beauty in the Pisgah National Forest only 35 miles from Asheville. Park along US Highway 276 and head to the accessible observation deck and down the stairs to the base of the falls. The name comes from nearby Looking Glass Rock, where water freezes on its sides in the winter and glistens in the sun like a mirror.
Soco Falls
See two creeks cascade into a lush cove filled with rhododendrons and towering trees. This twin waterfall along Highway 19, located on the edge of the reservation, has long been revered by the Cherokee Indians. A short drive from the Blue Ridge Parkway, find the falls near milepost 455.7. A short walk takes you to an observation deck.
Glassmine Falls
From the overlook at Milepost 361.2 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, spot this ribbon of water, named for an old mine nearby, cascading down a rock cliff across the valley. Located about 25 miles north of Asheville near Craggy Gardens, it is most impressive after a good rain.
Toxaway Falls
Cruise scenic Highway 64 across the bridge by the Lake Toxaway Dam and you might not realize a 200-foot waterfall is right beneath you. Park on either side of the bridge and take the ridgetop walkway along the road to look down at the water flowing over colorful bedrock down the gorge. You’ll see why this highway is designated as the NC Waterfalls Byway if you continue driving to see the next two waterfalls.
Bridal Veil Falls
Located along US Highway 64 near the town of Highlands, you can't miss this 60-foot delicate cascade that glistens in the sunlight as it flows over the cliff above.
Dry Falls
See this 75-foot waterfall from an accessible observation deck, plus indulge in the rare treat of walking behind the powerful cascade. Stay dry (hence the name) on the short, paved trail that goes underneath the cliff overhang. Find the falls just a mile past Bridal Veil Falls on Highway 64.
