8 Tranquil Spots Not to Miss in North Carolina

Our Frugal Family Travelers have explored the mountains of Tennessee numerous times on previous trips!   However, on a recent excursion, we decided it was time to explore North Carolina!  The trip did not disappoint, mostly because it was devoid of the commercialism often found in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.  Don’t get me wrong, we love these areas, but this new location offered the tranquil atmosphere we were seeking on this trip.  So, if you and your Frugal Family Travelers enjoy hiking and also soaking up the tranquility to be had at waterfalls, then add some of these North Carolina spots to your next vacation itinerary.    The best part is that these waterfalls are all in the same general area of Asheville, NC and therefore, can be easily combined with other local activities, including the Biltmore.  

Pearson’s Falls 

This beautiful waterfall is located in the foothills of the blue ridge mountains and is privately owned and maintained by the Tryon Garden Club.  The waterfall is a short hike from the parking area and is great for those traveling with small children or those with limited mobility.  

Cost: $5 Adults; $1 Children

Tips: Pack bug spray

Note: Bathroom facility on site. 

Directions: 

Pearson’s Falls 2748 Pearson Falls Road Saluda, NC 28773

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Catawba Falls

At approximately 100 ft high, Catawba is certainly worth the 3 mile round trip hike.   This best part is it is only 26 miles from Asheville! 

Cost: Free

Tips: Pack bug spray

Note: Bathroom facility on site. 

Directions: 

Catawba Falls 3074 Catawba River Rd, Old Fort, NC 28762

Pictured below is Andrew’s Geyser.  This is a great picnic spot and is not far from Catawba Falls!  

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Linville Falls 

The falls plunges into the Linville Gorge which makes for a spectacular view!   The trail leading to the falls is 1.6 miles round trip and is easy for families as well as those with limited mobility.  

Cost: Free

Tips: Pack bug spray

Note: A bathroom facility is located up the road from the trailhead at the information cabin  

Directions:

Click here for direction

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High, Triple, Hooker Falls

These beautiful waterfalls are located in DuPont State Forest.  The best part is that all three are accessible from the same trail.   

(Above: High Falls) 

(Above: Tripple Falls)

(Above: Hooker Falls)

(Above: Covered Bridge Above High Falls)

Cost: Optional Donation

Tips: Pack bug spray

Note: Bathroom available at information center. 

Directions: 

Dupont State Forest 1300 Staton Road, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718

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Looking glass Falls and Sliding Rock

Both waterfalls are located in the Pisgah National Forest and are down the road from one another.   Both waterfalls are perfect spots for families with small children and those with limited mobility as there is no hike required.   However,  the waterfall may be viewed its base by hiking down a short set of steps.    

(Above: Looking Glass Falls)

(Above: Sliding Rock)

Cost: Free; Sliding Rock charges in the summer! 

Tips: Pack bug spray

Note: Bathroom facility is open seasonally at Sliding Rock.  In the summer pack a bathing suit to slide down Sliding Rock! 

Directions: 

Click here for directions

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All content provided on Frugal Family Travelers blog is for informational purposes only. The owners of this blog make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.  The owners of Frugal Family Travelers blog do not share personal information with third-parties and are not responsible for the republishing of the content found on this blog on other Web sites or media without permission.  As with all travel, operating days, times, costs, etc., should be verified prior to departure.

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