10 Secret Waterfalls You Must See In North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains hold some of nature’s best-kept secrets, and I’m talking about waterfalls that most tourists never discover.
These hidden cascades offer peaceful escapes where you can actually hear the water without fighting crowds for a photo.
I’ve explored these trails myself, and trust me, the effort to find them is totally worth it.
Ready to discover waterfalls that feel like your own private paradise?
1. Setrock Creek Falls
Tucked away in a remote corner of the mountains, this waterfall feels like something out of a fantasy novel.
The water crashes down with impressive force, creating a mist that cools your face even from a distance.
You’ll need to navigate some rocky sections to reach it, but local hikers say it’s one of the most underrated spots in the entire region.
Bring sturdy shoes because the trail can get slippery, and always check weather conditions before heading out to ensure a safe adventure.
2. Dill Falls & Upper Dill Falls
A two-for-one adventure awaits you on this trail, where both waterfalls reward hikers who venture beyond the ordinary.
The lower falls tumble gracefully over moss-covered rocks, while the upper cascade offers a more dramatic plunge that echoes through the forest.
Getting there requires a moderate hike, but the solitude you’ll find makes every step feel like a treasure hunt.
Pack your camera because the lighting through the canopy creates magical moments, especially during golden hour when the sun filters through the leaves.
3. Roaring Fork Falls
Despite its fierce name, this waterfall actually offers a surprisingly peaceful vibe that instantly melts away stress.
The cascade drops about 70 feet into a crystal-clear pool that reflects the surrounding trees like a natural mirror.
What makes this spot special is how few people know about it, giving you space to sit on the rocks and just breathe.
Early morning visits are absolutely magical here, when fog hangs low over the water and wildlife comes out to drink from the stream below.
4. Tom’s Creek Falls
Families love this waterfall because the trail leading to it is manageable for kids while still feeling like a real wilderness adventure.
The falls themselves split into multiple channels as they descend, creating a curtain effect that changes with the seasons and rainfall.
During autumn, the surrounding trees explode with color, making this one of the most photographed secret spots in the mountains.
There’s a flat area near the base where you can spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch with nature’s soundtrack playing in the background.
5. Catawba Falls
This two-tiered beauty stands tall at over 100 feet, making it one of the most impressive hidden waterfalls in the region.
The lower falls are easily accessible and perfect for a quick visit, but adventurous souls can scramble up to the upper falls for an even more breathtaking view.
I remember the first time I saw it after a heavy rain—the power of the water was absolutely mesmerizing.
The trail follows the creek closely, so you’ll hear rushing water for most of your hike, building anticipation with every step forward.
6. Courthouse Falls
Named after the nearby Courthouse Creek, this waterfall hides in a narrow gorge that feels like stepping into another world entirely.
The trail can be challenging with steep sections, but reaching the falls feels like discovering a secret that nature wanted to keep for herself.
Water pours down a sheer rock face into a deep pool that stays icy cold even during summer’s hottest days.
Experienced hikers sometimes continue upstream to find even smaller cascades, creating a full day of exploration if you’re feeling ambitious and prepared.
7. Log Hollow Falls
Quiet and unassuming, this waterfall rewards those who seek tranquility over thundering drama and Instagram-worthy shots.
The cascade gently spills over layered rock shelves, creating a soothing rhythm that makes this spot perfect for meditation or simply unplugging from life’s chaos.
Few people venture here, which means you’ll likely have the entire area to yourself on weekdays.
Wildflowers bloom along the trail in spring, adding splashes of color to your journey and making the hike as beautiful as the destination itself.
8. Big Laurel Falls
This waterfall spreads wide across the rock face, creating a curtain of water that catches sunlight in the most incredible ways throughout the day.
The surrounding laurel bushes bloom in late spring, filling the air with sweet fragrance and transforming the area into something truly enchanting.
Getting here involves crossing a few streams, so waterproof boots are definitely your friend on this adventure.
Photographers particularly love this spot because the wide cascade allows for creative compositions that capture both the water and the mountain landscape behind it.
9. Elk River Falls
Swimming holes don’t get much better than this—a 50-foot waterfall plunging into a deep, refreshing pool that’s perfect for summer dips.
Local teenagers have been jumping from the surrounding rocks for generations, though you should always assess your comfort level before attempting any jumps.
The area can get busier than other secret spots on this list, especially on hot weekends when word spreads about the swimming.
Arrive early to claim your spot on the rocks, and always respect the power of moving water by staying alert and cautious.
10. Soco Falls
Convenience meets beauty at this roadside wonder, where you can literally see the waterfall from your car window without hiking a single step.
But don’t let easy access fool you—this cascade is genuinely stunning, especially after rainfall when it transforms into a roaring spectacle.
The multiple tiers create a staircase effect as water bounces from rock to rock on its way down the mountainside.
It’s perfect for travelers with limited mobility or families with small children who still want to experience Blue Ridge waterfall magic without a challenging trek.