Tom’s Creek Falls is a beautiful, 60-foot waterfall off U.S. 221 in the Pisgah National Forest. The creek flows over several small ledges before its large vertical drop on the lower cascade.

This is one of several waterfalls located near Mount Mitchell and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Check out some other Mount Mitchell area waterfalls.

From U.S. 221, turn on Huskins Branch Road. It is just over a mile to the trailhead on your right. Huskins Branch Road is paved except for a small section in the middle. The trailhead has a small parking area (can fit up to 6 cars) and an information board.

The sand-and-gravel trail is a 1-mile roundtrip hike. It follows an old road bed to start, with the creek to your left. The path is slightly uphill on the way to the falls and is a relatively easy walk.

Trail to the falls
Trail to the falls

You’ll cross a wooden bridge. There are benches along the route to rest or enjoy the landscape. Near the waterfall is a section of switchbacks and fencing.

Toms Creek Falls in the distance

Tom’s Creek Falls

There are two easy viewing options: a metal observation deck or a short spur trail to the base of the waterfall.

The main trail ends at a square observation deck. This is a perfect spot for families or those who don’t want to scramble over rocks. You can see the entire waterfall from here.

Observation deck
Toms Creek Falls from observation deck
Toms Creek Falls from observation deck

For a closer view of the falls, take the spur trail up the stairs just before the observation deck. It is a short path and requires little effort.

Staircase and observation deck to view falls
Toms Creek Falls

When the water is low, you can walk around and sit on the rocks.

Toms Creek Falls
Steph at Toms Creek Falls

You might see flakes of mica embedded in rocks or on the trail. Mica is used as an electrical insulator.

Mica on the ground near falls
Mica on the ground

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North Carolina, United States

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