East Fork Falls

A roadside 15ft waterfall in the Headwaters State Forest of North Carolina. There is also a large swimming hole at the bottom of the falls.

Just off the road, in the newly formed Headwaters State Forest, is the very easy to reach East Fork Falls. At only about 12-15 feet high, it isn’t a very high waterfall but is very beautiful nonetheless and definitely worth checking out. There is also a large and deep swimming hole just below the falls that is sure to be a popular spot during the warm summer months.

The trailhead to East Fork Falls is located off East Fork Road near Brevard North Carolina. It isn’t marked so you will have to look for the pull-off from East Fork Road. If you approach from Brevard, it will be on you left about 5.7 miles after you turn onto East Fork Road from Highway 276. It isn’t a large area and has room for maybe 3 or 4 vehicles. East Fork Falls is only about 20 minutes from Brevard North Carolina. There are no restroom facilities at the trailhead.

The trail starts at the obvious dirt road leading into the woods from the parking area and is very short. There are two access points to the falls; neither of which are too long.

Very quickly as you begin the trail, there will be a side trail leading down to the top of the falls which you should hear in the background. After about 20 feet the trail will put you right at the top of East Fork Falls requiring extreme care as the area isn’t very big and you are right on the creek. Remember that a wet rock is a slippery rock. Enjoy the view but don’t get too close.

To reach the base of the falls, walk back up to the main trail and continue on it for about another 50 feet looking for a steeper trail leading down to the creek and large swimming hole. If you want to stay dry, the area for viewing the falls isn’t too large and has somewhat of an obstructed view. But if you don’t mind getting your feet wet, you can get great views of the very picturesque East Fork Falls.

There is a long gradual cascade just below the swimming hole so be careful if you venture into the water.

Relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of East Fork Falls before heading back up to the parking area.

Leave a Comment

Rating: