Upper Bearwallow Falls (via NC 281)

Gorges State Park is one of North Carolina’s newest and most spectacular state parks, protecting more than 7,100 acres of rugged mountain terrain along the state’s southwestern border. The park was established after North Carolina acquired the property from Duke Energy, and the purchase also included approximately 2,900 acres of adjacent game lands managed by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. Located within the Blue Ridge Escarpment, where the mountains drop dramatically toward the Piedmont, the park receives some of the highest rainfall totals in the eastern United States. This abundance of water has carved a landscape of steep river gorges, towering cliffs, rushing streams, and numerous waterfalls that rank among the most impressive in the Southern Appalachians. The park is also recognized for its remarkable biodiversity, supporting a rich variety of plant and animal life, including many rare and unique species that thrive in its cool, moist environment. As a result, Gorges State Park has become a premier destination for hikers, naturalists, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking to experience one of the wildest landscapes in North Carolina.

The short hike to Bearwallow Falls begins at a parking area along NC 281 and provides an excellent introduction to the beauty of the park. The trail descends gradually through a mixed hardwood forest, passing beneath a power-line corridor before entering dense stands of rhododendron and mountain laurel that create a colorful display when they bloom during late spring and summer. The walk is relatively easy, with the downhill journey to the falls making it accessible for hikers of most skill levels. After a short distance, the trail reaches a wooden observation platform overlooking Bearwallow Creek and the picturesque waterfall that shares its name. Although visitors cannot safely access the base of the falls, the overlook offers outstanding views as the creek tumbles over a broad rock ledge into the forested gorge below. The waterfall is particularly impressive following periods of heavy rain, when increased water flow transforms it into a powerful cascade. Combined with its easy access, scenic setting, and rewarding views, Upper Bearwallow Falls remains one of the most popular and frequently visited destinations in the northern section of Gorges State Park.