There's plenty of North Carolina-type things both locals and transplants want to do (or say they'll do), like a fall drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, climbing Mount Mitchell, traveling along the Outer Banks Scenic Byway, stopping off at Jockey's Ridge, visiting every lighthouse and landmark; I'm getting tired just thinking about it. While there are plenty of places and spaces deserving of every North Carolinian's bucket list, some are just quintessential Carolina. For one notable place that is perfect for a late summer or early fall hike, Linville Falls is a must.
Linville Falls is easily one of the most visited waterfalls in North Carolina. Known for its striking beauty and accessibility, hikers and passerby's enjoy two perspectives of the fall (and some exercise) with a brisk four mile hike. Located behind the steep walls of Linville Gorge, the fall cascades 90 feet between towering rock walls, feeling like an oasis around an otherwise treacherous landscape. Linville Falls was actually much larger (around 160 feet) until a flood that occurred between 1895 and 1906 carved through the stone and shortened the waterfall's length.
While Linville might have lost a little height over the years, it's still one of the most popular falls with around 350,000 visitors per year. Located in Burke County and off the Blue Ridge Parkway, here you'll find a 440-acre recreation area featuring campgrounds, hiking spots and the Visitor's Center.
There are two main hikes that take you to different perspective and vantage points of the fall. The more difficult Linville Gorge trail leads you to the base of the fall through a series of steps and trails. Once there, hikers can rest peacefully along one of the many boulders, snap photos, even eat a snack. While many people hike up, a lot of second or third time visitors say they prefer the vantage point from the base of the fall as opposed to Erwin's View. From down here, you're surrounded by solitude and the sound of rushing water.
While the view base of the fall is unique, it's not the easiest trail. Slippery steps and a steep decline can prevent those with knee problems or walking issues from reaching the endpoint. For another option, there's Erwin's View. The 1.6-mile hike leads you to the most photographed perspective of the fall (pictured above) while surrounding you in a natural oasis and greenery-wonderland during your hike. Erwin's View starts at the Visitors Center and offers different perspectives of the fall, not just at the end, but while you hike. The first fall you'll see is the small and mild Upper Falls, which is a half-mile from the Visitor's Center. Next, you'll come to The Chimney, a rocky outcrop that doubles as an overlook offering vistas of both upper and lower falls. For many with mobility issues, hiking a half-mile to The Chimney will give you great views of Linville Falls. About a mile after the Chimney, you've reached the top and are treated to a stomach-dropping aerial view of Linville Falls. While pictures can capture the beauty, it's one of those places you have to see for yourself. Between the stunning rock walls, powerful water, secluded hikes and mountain scenery; it's easy to see why Linville Falls is one of the most popular in the state.
Linville Falls is such a beautiful place and the easy accessibility makes it a must for any North Carolinian looking for an accomplishable adventure. Have you visited here before?
The waterfall was named for Linville Gorge. While visiting the falls, take time to also visit the Grand Canyon of the East.
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