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Over 500,000 visitors walk behind a waterfall each year without getting wet. Dry Falls offers this rare experience in the heart of North Carolina’s mountains. The name comes from a unique feature that lets you stand behind the curtain of water and stay completely dry.
This natural wonder sits near Highlands in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The falls drop 22.8 m (75 feet) over a rock ledge. A paved path takes you right behind the cascade. You can hear the roar of water while staying on dry ground.
The waterfall flows on the Cullasaja River. Indigenous peoples knew this spot for centuries before European settlers arrived. Today it remains one of the most accessible waterfalls in the region. You don’t need hiking boots or hours of trekking to experience its beauty.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Reaching Dry Falls requires planning your route carefully. The waterfall sits along Highway 64 between Highlands and Franklin. Most visitors fly into one of three airports and drive from there.
Closest Airports
Asheville Regional Airport sits 105 km (65 miles) northeast of Dry Falls. This airport offers the shortest drive time. You can rent a car and reach the falls in about 90 minutes. The route takes you through beautiful mountain scenery.
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport lies 145 km (90 miles) southeast. The drive takes roughly two hours. This airport often has more flight options and competitive prices. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is the largest option at 241 km (150 miles) away. The drive takes about three hours but you get the widest selection of flights.
Planning Tip: Book rental cars in advance during peak fall foliage season (October). Prices increase and availability drops during this popular time.
Driving Directions
From Highlands, drive west on Highway 64 for 4.8 km (3 miles). The parking area appears on your right. From Franklin, head east on Highway 64 for about 19 km (12 miles). Watch for signs indicating the falls.
The road winds through mountains with many curves. Drive carefully and allow extra time. GPS coordinates are 35.0847°N, 83.2847°W if you prefer digital navigation.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Best Time to Visit Dry Falls
Spring brings the highest water flow to Dry Falls. March through May offers spectacular views as snowmelt feeds the Cullasaja River. The falls roar with power during these months. Wildflowers bloom along the trail adding color to your visit.
Fall attracts the most visitors for good reason. September through November showcases brilliant foliage. The forest transforms into shades of red, orange, and gold. October sees peak colors but also peak crowds. Arrive early in the day to find parking.
Summer provides warm weather and family-friendly conditions. June through August temperatures range from 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). The mist from the falls creates a natural cooling effect. This season works well for families with children.
Money Saver: Visit on weekdays rather than weekends to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience at no extra cost.
Months to Avoid
Winter months from December through February bring challenges. Ice forms on the trail making it dangerous. The path closes when conditions become unsafe. Water flow decreases significantly in late summer and early fall. August and early September may show reduced waterfall volume during dry years.
Weather Patterns
Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring layers even in summer. Morning temperatures can be cool at this elevation of 914 m (3,000 feet). Rain occurs frequently so pack a waterproof jacket. The area receives about 203 cm (80 inches) of rain annually.
Check forecasts before you go. Thunderstorms develop rapidly in afternoon during summer. Plan morning visits to avoid weather delays. Winter brings occasional snow that makes driving treacherous on mountain roads.
Notable Annual Festivals
The Highlands area near Dry Falls hosts several festivals throughout the year. These events add cultural experiences to your waterfall visit.
Highlands Cashiers Land Trust Plateau Celebration
This event takes place each September. The celebration features guided nature hikes and educational programs. Local experts lead walks to waterfalls including Dry Falls. You learn about regional ecology and conservation efforts.
Highlands Food and Wine Festival
November brings this culinary celebration to the area. Regional chefs showcase Appalachian cuisine. Wine tastings feature selections from North Carolina vineyards. The festival runs over one weekend with multiple events.
Highlands Motoring Festival
Classic car enthusiasts gather each May for this event. Vintage automobiles line Main Street in Highlands. The scenic drives pass right by Dry Falls. Car shows and rallies continue throughout the weekend.
Summer concert series run from June through August. Free outdoor music happens weekly in Highlands. These events complement a day trip to the waterfall area.
Getting Around Locally
Personal vehicles provide the only practical transportation to Dry Falls. No public transit serves this rural mountain area. Rental cars give you flexibility to explore multiple waterfalls and attractions.
Parking and Access
A dedicated parking area sits directly off Highway 64. The lot accommodates about 20 vehicles. Spaces fill quickly on weekends and during peak seasons. Arrive before 10 AM for the best chance of parking. No parking fees apply at this location.
Limited roadside parking exists along the highway. Use caution if you park on the shoulder. The road sees steady traffic and curves reduce visibility. Never block the entrance or exit to the parking area.
Access Note: The parking area and trail meet ADA accessibility standards. The paved path accommodates wheelchairs and strollers.
Regional Driving
Highway 64 connects Dry Falls to other waterfalls in the area. Bridal Veil Falls sits just 4 km (2.5 miles) west. You can visit both falls in one trip. The scenic drive takes about five minutes between locations.
Mountain roads require careful driving. Sharp curves and steep grades challenge unfamiliar drivers. Speed limits drop to 40 km/h (25 mph) in many sections. Allow extra travel time beyond GPS estimates. Cell phone service can be spotty in valleys.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options center in Highlands and Cashiers. These towns sit within 16 km (10 miles) of Dry Falls. Booking ahead ensures better rates and availability.
Highlands Accommodations
The town of Highlands offers upscale lodging. Historic inns provide charm and character. The Old Edwards Inn features luxury rooms and fine dining. Rates start around $300 per night during peak season.
Mid-range hotels like Hampton Inn offer comfort at lower prices. Expect to pay $150 to $200 per night. These properties include breakfast and parking. Reserve early for fall foliage season when prices jump.
Vacation rentals through private owners give you more space. Cabins accommodate families and groups. Prices range from $200 to $500 per night depending on size. Many rentals require minimum stays of two to three nights.
Budget Tip: Stay in Franklin, North Carolina for lower rates. Hotels cost 30 to 40 percent less than Highlands. The drive to Dry Falls adds only 25 minutes.
Camping Options
Cliffside Lake Recreation Area offers camping 11 km (7 miles) from the falls. Sites cost $24 per night. Facilities include restrooms and drinking water. The campground operates from April through October.
Van Hock Campground provides basic sites near Cullasaja River. This Forest Service facility charges $15 per night. No hookups or showers exist at this rustic location. It works well for tent camping.
Dining & Local Cuisine
The Highlands area serves traditional Appalachian cuisine alongside contemporary options. Local ingredients appear on many menus. Trout comes fresh from nearby streams.
Regional Specialties
Mountain trout prepared multiple ways dominates local menus. Restaurants serve it fried, grilled, or smoked. The fish comes from cold mountain waters giving it excellent flavor. Prices range from $18 to $28 for entrees.
Country ham appears as a breakfast staple. This salt-cured meat differs from standard ham. The process creates intense salty flavor. Locals serve thin slices with eggs and biscuits. Barbecue varies by restaurant but usually means pulled pork with tangy sauce.
Apple dishes showcase fall harvests. Fried apple pies appear on dessert menus. Apple butter accompanies breakfast biscuits. Local orchards supply restaurants with fresh seasonal fruit.
Restaurant Recommendations
Highlands offers diverse dining from casual to fine. The Ugly Dog Pub serves burgers and craft beer in a relaxed setting. Expect to spend $15 to $25 per person. Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro provides upscale German cuisine. Dinner costs $40 to $60 per person.
Wild Thyme Gourmet focuses on fresh local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally. Reservations help during busy periods. Lunch averages $20 while dinner runs $35 per person.
Local Favorite: Stop at Buck’s Coffee Cafe for morning coffee and pastries before heading to Dry Falls. Opening time is 7 AM most days.
Cashiers offers additional choices. The Cornish Hen serves breakfast and lunch. Their portions satisfy hungry hikers. Canyon Kitchen combines casual atmosphere with quality food. Both restaurants keep prices moderate at $12 to $20 per meal.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Experiencing Dry Falls
The main attraction draws visitors for one unique feature. You can walk behind the waterfall and remain dry. A short paved trail of 0.08 km (0.05 miles) leads from the parking area to the falls. The path descends gradually with handrails for safety.
The trail takes you under a rock overhang. Water cascades 22.8 m (75 feet) in front of you. The spray creates rainbows on sunny days. The roar of falling water fills your ears. Most visitors spend 20 to 30 minutes at the falls taking photos and enjoying views.
The viewing area behind the waterfall provides multiple photo opportunities. Look through the curtain of water at the forest beyond. The contrast between falling water and green trees creates stunning images. Bring a camera but protect it from mist.
Safety Alert: The trail and viewing area can be slippery from mist and spray. Wear shoes with good traction. Watch children carefully near the edge.
Nearby Waterfalls
Bridal Veil Falls offers another walk behind experience. This waterfall sits 4 km (2.5 miles) west on Highway 64. The falls measure 36.5 m (120 feet) tall. You can actually drive behind this one though the road has weight limits.
Cullasaja Falls creates a series of cascades dropping 76 m (250 feet). The waterfall sits 8 km (5 miles) east of Dry Falls. No official trail exists but roadside pullouts offer views. Use extreme caution as the viewing area has no barriers.
Scenic Drives
The Cullasaja Gorge Scenic Drive follows Highway 64 for 16 km (10 miles). This route passes three major waterfalls. The road winds along the river through dense forest. Fall colors make this drive spectacular in October.
Whiteside Mountain Road branches off Highway 64 near Cashiers. The 8 km (5 mile) route leads to hiking trails. Granite cliffs tower 229 m (750 feet) above the valley. The loop drive takes about 30 minutes without stops.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Cultural attractions complement outdoor activities in the Highlands area. Small museums preserve local history. Art galleries showcase regional artists.
Highlands Historical Society and Museum
This museum occupies the historic Prince House in downtown Highlands. Exhibits cover Cherokee heritage and early European settlement. Artifacts include farming tools and household items from the 1800s. Admission is free though donations help operations. The museum opens Thursday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Arts and Crafts
The Bascom arts center presents visual arts year round. Gallery shows change monthly featuring regional and national artists. Classes teach painting, pottery, and sculpture. The center sits on 6 hectares (15 acres) with sculpture gardens. Admission to galleries costs nothing.
Summer street fairs bring craft vendors to downtown Highlands. Local artisans sell handmade pottery, jewelry, and wood crafts. These markets run on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Performing Arts
The Highlands Performing Arts Center stages concerts and theater productions. The season runs from June through August. Performances range from classical music to contemporary plays. Ticket prices vary from $25 to $60 depending on the event.
Mountain Findings antique shop offers browsing through regional collectibles. The store specializes in Appalachian crafts and vintage items. Even if you don’t buy anything the collection provides insight into local culture.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Hiking Trails
Dry Falls trail serves as an introduction to mountain hiking. The short paved path works for all fitness levels. You gain experience with mountain terrain without commitment to long hikes.
Whiteside Mountain Trail offers more challenge 16 km (10 miles) away. The 3.2 km (2 mile) loop climbs to cliff overlooks. Elevation gain reaches 122 m (400 feet). Allow two hours for this moderate hike. Views extend for miles across valleys and peaks.
Glen Falls Trail leads to three waterfalls in 2.6 km (1.6 miles). The path descends steeply requiring good knees for the return climb. Each waterfall offers viewing platforms. This hike takes two to three hours round trip.
Trail Tip: Download offline maps before hiking. Cell service drops in many valleys. The AllTrails app works well for this area.
Wildlife Viewing
Black bears inhabit forests around Dry Falls. Sightings happen most often in early morning or evening. Never approach bears and maintain distance of at least 46 m (150 feet). Store food properly if camping.
White-tailed deer appear frequently along forest edges. Dawn and dusk offer best viewing times. Wild turkeys scratch in leaf litter searching for food. Salamanders live in streams throughout the area. The region hosts over 50 species of these amphibians.
Water Activities
Lake Glenville provides water recreation 24 km (15 miles) from Dry Falls. The reservoir covers 150 hectares (370 acres). Boat rentals operate from May through September. Kayaks cost about $40 per day. Canoes run $50 for full day rental.
Fly fishing attracts anglers to mountain streams. The Cullasaja River holds native brook trout. North Carolina requires fishing licenses for anyone over 16. Daily licenses cost $10 and week passes run $20. Purchase online or at local sporting goods stores.
Travel With Children
Dry Falls works perfectly for families with children. The short walk from parking to waterfall prevents complaints about distance. Kids find walking behind the waterfall exciting and memorable.
Age Appropriate Activities
The paved trail accommodates strollers and young children. Preschoolers can walk the distance easily. The experience holds attention for kids of all ages. Most children want to walk back and forth multiple times.
Bring waterproof jackets for kids who want to get closer to the spray. The mist creates natural air conditioning on hot days. Children enjoy the cooling effect while adults appreciate the break from heat.
Salamander hunting along streams near the parking area entertains kids. Look under rocks in shallow water. Always replace rocks carefully to protect habitats. This activity teaches observation and respect for nature.
Safety Considerations
Supervise children carefully on the trail. The path includes stairs that can be slippery. Keep kids away from the trail edge. The drop behind the viewing area poses danger. Hold hands with young children throughout the walk.
Parent Alert: The trail and area behind the falls can be wet and slippery. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear with good grip.
Family-Friendly Lodging
Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms suit families better than hotel rooms. Full kitchens let you prepare meals saving money and accommodating picky eaters. Properties with game rooms keep kids entertained during downtime.
Hampton Inn in Highlands offers indoor pool and free breakfast. Kids swim after hiking. The breakfast saves time in mornings when you want early starts. Rates include all family members in one room.
Money Saving Tips
Visiting Dry Falls costs nothing but smart planning saves money on the trip overall. Small changes add up to significant savings.
Free Attractions
No entrance fee applies at Dry Falls. Parking costs nothing. This makes the waterfall an excellent free activity. Other free waterfalls in the area include Bridal Veil Falls and roadside views of Cullasaja Falls.
Hiking trails throughout the region require no permits or fees. National Forest lands provide free access. The Bascom art center charges nothing for gallery viewing. Downtown Highlands window shopping costs nothing and shows you regional crafts.
Big Saver: Pack picnic lunches instead of eating at restaurants for every meal. Grocery stores in Highlands and Franklin stock sandwich supplies. Save $40-60 per day for a family of four.
Accommodation Savings
Book lodging in Franklin rather than Highlands. Hotels cost 30 to 40 percent less. The extra 24 km (15 mile) drive to Dry Falls saves $50 to $100 per night. Multiply that over multiple nights for substantial savings.
Visit during shoulder seasons of late spring or early fall. Avoid peak fall foliage weeks in mid-October when prices jump. Late September offers similar colors at lower rates. Early November provides deals after leaves drop.
Dining Deals
Eat your main meal at lunch rather than dinner. Many restaurants offer lunch specials for $10 to $15. The same entree costs $20 to $30 at dinner. Breakfast at your hotel or rental saves another meal cost.
Shop at Ingles grocery store in Highlands for snacks and drinks. Avoid buying beverages at tourist spots where prices inflate. A case of water costs $4 at the grocery versus $2 per bottle at falls.
Safety & Local Customs
Trail Safety
The path to Dry Falls includes stairs that become slippery when wet. Mist from the waterfall keeps surfaces damp. Wear shoes with good tread. Avoid sandals or smooth-soled shoes. Railings line most of the trail so use them for balance.
Watch your step constantly. Looking up at the waterfall while walking causes trips and falls. Stop walking to take photos. The uneven surface catches inattentive feet. Stay on the paved path at all times.
Lightning poses danger during summer thunderstorms. The trail offers no shelter. If you hear thunder head back to your vehicle immediately. Don’t wait to see how close the storm might be. Mountain weather turns dangerous quickly.
Emergency Contact: Cell service works at the parking area but drops near the falls. Note the location before descending the trail. The nearest hospital is Highlands-Cashiers Hospital at +1 (828) 526-1200.
Wildlife Precautions
Black bears live throughout this region. Never approach or feed bears. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising them. If you encounter a bear back away slowly while facing it. Never run. Most bears leave when they detect humans.
Venomous snakes including copperheads and timber rattlesnakes inhabit rocky areas. Watch where you place hands and feet. Most snake bites happen when people step on or grab snakes accidentally. Give snakes space and they pose no threat.
Local Etiquette
Southern hospitality defines interactions in this area. Locals appreciate polite greetings. Say hello to people you pass on trails. Thank you goes a long way in shops and restaurants. Service workers remember courteous visitors.
Tipping follows standard American customs. Leave 15 to 20 percent at restaurants. Tip hotel housekeeping $2 to $5 per day. The slower mountain pace differs from cities. Don’t expect rushed service.
Respect private property throughout the region. Many waterfalls sit on private land with public access. Stay on marked trails. Don’t litter or damage vegetation. Leave no trace principles apply everywhere.
Visitor Comments About Dry Falls
“Walking behind the waterfall was amazing! We visited three different falls that day but Dry Falls was our favorite. The kids talked about it for weeks after we got home. The short walk made it easy even with our youngest who is only four.”
“I was skeptical about staying dry while walking behind a waterfall but the name is accurate. The path keeps you out of the main flow. You get some mist which feels refreshing on a hot day. The view looking out through the falling water is spectacular. Bring a good camera.”
“This waterfall exceeded expectations. We have seen many waterfalls but few let you walk behind them. The falls flow strong even in summer. The whole experience from parking to viewing takes less than an hour. Perfect for including in a day of exploring multiple sites. The parking area was full at 11 AM on a Saturday.”
Additional Nearby Destinations
Highlands Town Center
Downtown Highlands sits 6.4 km (4 miles) from Dry Falls. The town features upscale shopping and dining. Art galleries line Main Street. Browse without obligation. Window displays showcase regional crafts and paintings. The town works well for afternoon exploration after morning waterfall visits.
Cashiers
This small community offers more casual atmosphere than Highlands. Cashiers sits 11 km (7 miles) west of Dry Falls. The village has fewer tourists and lower prices. Local shops sell outdoor gear and supplies. Stop here for last minute hiking needs.
Gorges State Park
This park protects 2,916 hectares (7,200 acres) of mountain wilderness. Located 32 km (20 miles) from Dry Falls, the park features multiple waterfalls. Rainbow Falls drops 45.7 m (150 feet) over rock faces. Hiking trails range from easy to strenuous. The park charges $5 per vehicle for parking.
Nantahala National Forest
Dry Falls sits within this vast national forest. The forest covers 219,000 hectares (540,000 acres). Hundreds of miles of trails wind through mountains. Camping, fishing, and hunting opportunities exist throughout. Stop at the ranger station in Highlands for maps and information.
Lake Toxaway
This private lake sits 24 km (15 miles) northeast of the falls. The lake covers 141 hectares (348 acres) making it North Carolina’s largest private lake. Public access is limited but the scenic drive around the lake offers views. Historic estates line the shoreline.
Practical Travel Tips
What to Bring
Pack light but include essentials. Water bottles prevent dehydration even on short walks. The trail to Dry Falls takes 10 minutes but you will likely spend 30 minutes total. Bring snacks if visiting multiple waterfalls in one day.
Cameras and phones capture memories but protect electronics from moisture. The mist behind the falls can damage devices. Bring a waterproof case or plastic bag. Microfiber cloths wipe water spots from lenses.
Rain jackets serve double duty. They protect from sudden showers and waterfall spray. The mountain weather changes rapidly. Carry jackets even when forecasts show sun. Temperatures drop 3°C to 6°C (5°F to 10°F) from morning to evening.
Packing Essential: Bring insect repellent during summer months. Mosquitoes and gnats thrive near water. Apply before starting the trail walk.
Best Photography Tips
Morning light creates better photos than afternoon. The sun angle illuminates the waterfall from 9 AM to 11 AM. Afternoon sun creates harsh shadows. Overcast days produce even lighting that works well for waterfall photography.
Use fast shutter speeds to freeze water motion. This shows individual water droplets. Slow shutter speeds create the silky water effect. Try both approaches. Bring a tripod for slow shutter work though hand holding works for fast speeds.
Restroom Facilities
Portable toilets sit in the parking area. These facilities get maintained regularly but bring hand sanitizer. No running water exists at this location. The nearest public restrooms with running water are in Highlands 6.4 km (4 miles) away.
Cell Phone Service
Coverage works in the parking area with most carriers. The signal drops as you descend to the falls. Download maps and directions before arriving. Don’t count on GPS working at the waterfall itself. Take photos of important information before losing signal.
Visitor Center
The Highlands Visitor Center provides maps and current conditions. The center operates at 108 Main Street in Highlands. Staff answer questions about waterfalls and trails. Free maps show all area waterfalls. Hours run 10 AM to 4 PM daily during summer. Call ahead in winter for seasonal hours.
Location Map
Your Mountain Adventure Awaits
Dry Falls delivers an unforgettable mountain experience. The unique walk behind a waterfall creates memories that last for years. You combine natural beauty with easy access. No strenuous hiking keeps the experience open to everyone.
The surrounding area offers days of exploration. Waterfalls dot the landscape waiting for discovery. Mountain towns provide charm and hospitality. Local cuisine satisfies after outdoor adventures.
Plan your visit during optimal seasons for best conditions. Spring brings powerful water flow. Fall showcases brilliant colors. Summer offers family friendly weather. Each season presents different rewards.
Start planning your trip to Dry Falls today. The mountains call with their timeless appeal. Crystal clear water tumbles over ancient rocks. Forest surrounds you with peace and beauty. This destination deserves a spot on every traveler’s list.
