Right along the North Carolina-South Carolina state line, lies one of the highest waterfalls (811 feet) east of the Rockies – Whitewater Falls. The upper falls plummet 411 feet. The 400-foot lower falls can be accessed from a different location in South Carolina. This is a popular waterfall so be prepared for crowds.
Learn about other Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area waterfalls.
Upper Whitewater Falls
There is a parking lot for the upper falls and a fee to park there ($3 per vehicle in 2019). It is a large parking lot that includes picnic tables as well as restrooms. Park your car and walk to the self-pay post. Insert your dollar bills in the envelopes provided, tear off the hanging tag for your car, and then deposit the sealed envelope back in the post. You will need to place in the hanging tag in your car before continuing on the trail.
Whitewater Falls Overlook
Follow the paved walkway at the end of the parking lot to the overlook for the upper falls. This 0.6-mile path is universally accessible but does climb in elevation to the top. In the distance, to your right, visitors are able to view Lake Jocassee and the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. There are scattered benches lining the sides of the trail.
Upper Whitewater Falls is on the Whitewater River in the Nantahala National Forest. From the overlook you can see the top of the multi-drop cascading waterfall.
Whitewater Falls Lower Platform
To the right of the overlook there is a set of wooden stairs leading to a lower overlook platform. From the lower platform you can see all of Upper Whitewater Falls. This is an even better view and worth the 154 wooden stairs if you are able. There is a bench on a landing about midway down the stairs to rest if needed.
Whitewater is a magnificent waterfall! I could have stayed all day to watch it. There was even a rainbow caused by mist and the sun hitting the water just right.
You can continue on a half-mile spur trail to the right of the lower platform, which switchbacks down the mountain. This path is steep in places. It will take you down to the Whitewater River and access to the over 75-mile Foothills Trail.