This scenic drive near the Highlands/Cashiers area is home to the Cullasaja Gorge and its four stunning roadside waterfalls: Bridal Veil Falls, Dry Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. The route goes through the Nantahala National Forest of pine, hemlock, and maple and is an unforgettable experience, especially in the fall.
Cullasaja River Gorge – Hwy 64
Where: Highlands to Franklin, NC
Distance: ~7.5-mile stretch on US 64 with 4 roadside waterfalls along the road
Cullasaja Gorge is located along US 64 in Macon County between Franklin and Highlands, NC. The gorge is about 7.5 miles of the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway that starts just past the Lake Sequoyah on the outskirts of Highlands. This narrow, winding road goes along the Cullasaja River and offers spectacular views of the gorge and mountain slopes.
We weren't prepared for how beautiful this road would be. We went there for the waterfalls, but even the views along the road blew us away. All around us are those spectacular views of the mountain scenery, a bright blue sky, towering trees and a rushing river wedged between the rugged walls of the gorge. It all took our breath away as we drove higher and higher. We couldn't ask for more.
Bridal Veil Falls
This mountain road in the heart of the Cullasaja Gorge boasts a number of magnificent waterfalls. Driving in from Greenville, SC, we reached the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway from the Highlands side and headed north on US 64 toward Franklin, NC. Snaking between towering cliffs, we reached Bridal Veil Falls first. You can walk behind the waterfall using a portion of an old road that passes under it.
Dry Falls
A mile farther on, we reached the highlight of our trip - Dry Falls, a 75-ft magnificent fall with a platform right behind the cascade. A short walk from the parking lot will take you directly under an overhanging cliff from which a massive cascade rushes down. The sight is beyond compare. Plus there's also an accessible overlook that features the bird-eye exceptionally scenic views of this natural wonder.
Bust Your Butt Falls
Bust Your Butt Falls, aka Quarry Falls, is found about 3 miles ahead from Dry Falls. This gentle cascade is a popular swimming hole in the summer. There are a few pull-offs on both sides of the road. A short scramble down a dirty path will take you straight to the bottom of the falls. Plenty of boulders along the stream provide ample seating for taking in the views. This waterfall is smaller than the others, but packs a big punch in the fall as the blazing-with-fall-colors canopy frames the views and is simply a feast for the eyes.
Cullasaja Falls
Cullasaja Falls is the last waterfall on the Cullasaja River. There's only a small pull-off along a very narrow winding road for 2-3 cars at most. Be extremely careful when trying to park or pull out. Sharp turns make it difficult to see approaching cars. This is the only waterfall we couldn't visit due to no parking.
Highlands, NC
Be sure to visit Downtown Highlands, a picturesque walkable community full of charm and natural beauty. There's a myriad of authentic little shops lining the main street. The lush green, the old brick and timber-framed fronts add to the charm of the surroundings. At 4,118 feet, this is the highest town in North Carolina and a welcome break from the hot days of lower heights, especially in the summer.
Please drive carefully as the road is very narrow and twists and turns along its route. And as usual, enjoy nature and leave no trace!
- 2 hrs from Greenville, SC
- Free on-street parking in Downtown Highlands
- Visited on 10/14
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