Cathedral Falls is a 15-foot waterfall just off NC-215, which is part of the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Two other waterfalls are on the same trail, making this hike great for a day trip!
Check out the other waterfalls located on the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway.
The land in Balsam Grove is on private property – Living Waters Christian Retreat Center – but they graciously allow visitors to hike the riverside trail. There is a small section of gravel next to the sign for Living Waters where you can park on the shoulder of the highway. Start on the trail in the woods to the left of the private property signs.
Cathedral Falls Trail
The trail dead-ends at the river and splits to the right and the left. To see the twin falls, collectively known as Mill Shoals, take the short path to the right. For Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls), turn left, and follow the trail about a quarter-mile down river.
Partway down the path, there is a small, circular overlook for visitors to gaze down at the water. Turn slightly left to continue on the trail. You will walk over a few staircases and bridges.
Along the way, there are spur trails to the river. There are cascades as well as places for visitors to wade and swim.
Just before the trail ends, take a spur trail to your right to walk on the bedrock above the waterfall. Here you get your first view of the impressive rock wall next to the falls.
When I visited, there was a small waterfall running over the colossal ledge from a recent rain.
Head back to the trail to view the falls from below. The path takes steps down to the slanted boulders at the base. Take care as you scramble across the rocks – they are very slippery! I ended up purposely sliding down one rather than trying to walk it. It was worth getting a little wet to see the waterfall up close!
Cathedral Falls
The massive rock face amplifies the sound of falling water, giving it the “cathedral” in its name. It is stunning to stand in its shadow and watch the water flow over the falls and downriver.
When you are ready to return, scramble up the rocks and follow the same path back.
For other waterfalls in the area, check out my list of Brevard waterfalls.
What a day you had! The autumn colors show off the falls even better. Thanks for this!
Thank Joni! Yes, it was a fantastic fall day for a hike. All those autumn colors made it magical.
Bird Rock / Cathedral Falls – AMAZING! For plein air painters this is a different look than other waterfalls and makes for an interesting painting. Love the colors in the rock against the
white, grays and blues of the falls.
Your descriptions always help us find our way and make the trip more enjoyable.
Thanks Charlotte! Cathedral Falls is definitely very unique compared to other waterfalls nearby. I loved the play of colors on the rock as well 🙂