The Ultimate Guide for a Weekend in Brevard
Want to plan a trip where waterfalls are the priority? You’re in the right place. Just 40 minutes south of Asheville, Transylvania County is North Carolina’s Land of Waterfalls. There are 250 cascades in our corner of the mountains—and, personally, we think that every trip here should include at least one waterfall.
In this itinerary, we’ve outlined 10+ fun ways to explore waterfalls in our corner of the mountains. This trip is perfect for outdoorsy couples, first-time Brevard travelers, outdoor photographers, and nature lovers looking for a quiet alternative to the Smokies or Asheville.
Places to Stay in the Land of Waterfalls
Stay steps away from a 60-ft waterfall at the cabin at Key Falls Inn—also a short drive to Pisgah National Forest. Or, stay at Meraki Escape, where there’s a waterfall on site. You can even book a private massage or yoga session next to the waterfall for the ultimate zen experience. Another choice in a prime waterfall chasing spot is Pilot Cove, which sits just outside the entrance of Pisgah National Forest.
Waterfall Hunting at Gorges State Park
Located 25 minutes south of Downtown Brevard, Gorges State Park offers some of the region’s most dramatic waterfall hikes:
- For an easier hike, try Upper Bearwallow Falls.
- Challenge yourself with a harder hike to Rainbow & Turtleback Falls.
- Make sure to swing by the Gorges State Park Visitor Center!
After the hike, head 10 minutes down the road to eat and drink:
- Have a taco and margarita at Los Vaqueros next to Toxaway Falls.
- Get a glass of wine at Moondance Wine Bar while you go through your waterfall photos.
Waterfalls, Arts & Scenery in and around DuPont State Recreational Forest
See the waterfalls with a fuzzy friend in DuPont:
- Try a DuPont horseback ride to Wintergreen Falls.
- Take a guided llama hike with Headwaters Outfitters to High Falls and Triple Falls.
Fuel up for your adventure in Cedar Mountain—just 5 minutes from the forest:
- Have a delicious meal at Cedar Mountain Cafe or Cedar Mountain Outpost.
Take in the scenery as you drive back to Brevard:
- Cruise the Scenic 276 arts corridor.
- Stop by Connestee and Batson Creek Falls.
Waterfalls of Pisgah National Forest
Explore the forest on a guided trip and check out some easy views:
- Perk up with a waterfall coffee hike with Nero Experiences, or get Asheville Jeep Tours to take you to some of Pisgah’s best waterfalls.
- Stop by Looking Glass Falls for a park-and-view roadside waterfall.
- Slide down nature’s water slide at Sliding Rock.
Hungry? Time for brews and bites:
- Get a burger and cold beer from the CHUBwagon at Oskar Blues Brewing.
- Grab a local brew and Tex-Mex at Ecusta Brewing Company and Gordingo’s.
- Have a pint at The Hub & Pisgah Tavern.
Get Local Advice on Waterfall Chasing
Pick up a map or waterfall guidebook in Downtown Brevard at the Brevard/Transylvania County Visitor Center to plan your next trip. Can’t wait? We don’t blame you. Start planning your adventure now with our interactive waterfall map.
