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North Carolina is home to more than 250 waterfalls, but some of its most breathtaking falls are the ones that aren’t easy to find. Tucked deep within mossy forests, behind winding trails and quiet backroads, these lesser-known cascades offer peace, beauty, and a true sense of discovery. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and reconnect with nature, here are eight secluded waterfalls in North Carolina that are absolutely worth the effort.
Harper Creek
Located in Pisgah National Forest near Mortimer, Harper Creek Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall perfect for adventurers. A moderate 2.8-mile hike through rugged terrain leads to this double-drop cascade, complete with bedrock pools ideal for cooling off in the summer. Though it’s less traveled, the views are postcard-worthy, and the peaceful setting makes the hike well worth the challenge.
Bearwallow Falls
Deep in Gorges State Park near Lake Toxaway, Upper Bearwallow Falls is accessed by a quiet, well-maintained trail that offers long-range views from a wooden overlook. The hike is just over a mile, making it doable for most skill levels, but still remote enough to escape the crowds. This hidden gem flows dramatically through a lush gorge and showcases the park’s wild beauty.
Wintergreen Falls
While most DuPont State Forest visitors head to Triple or High Falls, Wintergreen Falls remains tucked away in a less-traveled corner. A peaceful 1.5-mile trail leads you to this charming 20-foot cascade surrounded by dense woods and boulders. It’s a perfect spot for meditation, photography, or a snack break with the soothing sound of water nearby.
Batson Creek
Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Connestee Falls, Batson Creek Falls is a beautiful 20-foot cascade that drops beside a wooden observation deck in Transylvania County. Easily accessible but lesser-known, it offers peaceful views without the foot traffic of more popular locations. The double-fall convergence seen here adds a special visual touch for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Stone Mountain
Tucked within Stone Mountain State Park, this 200-foot granite slide is often overlooked in favor of the park’s namesake peak. A forested trail winds past bubbling brooks and through scenic hardwoods before revealing this hidden waterfall. It’s especially beautiful in fall when the surrounding foliage glows gold and red, but quiet enough to enjoy year-round.
Turtleback Falls
Upstream from the popular Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls is a secluded spot reachable by a moderate hike through Pisgah National Forest. It’s named for its smooth rock formation that curves like a turtle’s shell. In summer, daring hikers slide down its sloped face into the pool below. In cooler seasons, it’s a peaceful place to enjoy the untouched beauty of the forest.
Moore Cove
Moore Cove Falls in Pisgah National Forest offers something rare—you can walk behind the waterfall. A gentle trail leads to a delicate 50-foot curtain of water falling over a natural rock cave. Despite being just a short drive from Brevard, it remains peaceful thanks to limited signage and no swimming. It’s a great spot for quiet reflection and light mist on your face.
Whitewater Falls
While technically the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies at 411 feet, Upper Whitewater Falls remains surprisingly peaceful. Located in Nantahala National Forest near the South Carolina border, it features paved paths to multiple viewing areas. Its sheer drop and remote mountain setting create a powerful, awe-inspiring scene—yet the peaceful atmosphere keeps it feeling secluded.