There are many waterfalls in the Highlands area along the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway including Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Both are part of a series of waterfalls on an 8-mile stretch of the Cullasaja River in the Nantahala National Forest.
Bridal Veil Falls
Bridal Veil Falls in Highlands is one of two waterfalls with that name in North Carolina. The other is in DuPont State Forest.
It is located on U.S. Highway 64 and is famous for previously allowing visitors to drive behind the waterfall. Issues with falling rocks and ice during winter caused the Forest Service to close the road behind the falls. Now only foot traffic is allowed. Roadside parking is available.
While the waterfall is nearly 120 feet, only 60 feet of the cascade is visible from the road. The waterfall has a low water volume most of the year except after a heavy rain.
Take care when visiting and keep an eye on young children as Bridal Veil Falls is directly next to the highway. It is a very popular spot and could be overcrowded in the summer, autumn, and on weekends.
Dry Falls
After visiting Bridal Veil Falls, continue on U.S. 64 for less than a mile. The parking area for Dry Falls is on your left. This lot has a $3 fee.
There is a universally accessible observation deck along the road. The below photos show the view from the deck.
For a closer look at the falls, it is a short walk down stone steps and a paved walkway.
The 75-foot waterfall flows over a bluff, allowing visitors to walk under the falls. If the water volume is low, you can walk behind it without getting wet, hence the name Dry Falls.
During cold winter months, visitors can see ice formations! If there is ice, as there was on my mid-January visit, the walkway section under the falls is closed for safety reasons. We had to cross some other icy spots on the pavement higher on the trail – be careful when visiting and watch your step.
Between the two, I preferred Dry Falls even without getting the chance to walk under it. The gorge surroundings and higher water flow make this a beautiful spot.
Have you been to either of these well-known waterfalls? If so, comment on your experience below!