No matter where you're from waterfalls are the focal points that draw people to nature. Here in Western North Carolina many visitors hike well worn trails to Pearson Falls, Triple Falls, Hooker Falls and many other popular area waterfalls.

It's not hard to wonder what the attraction to these beautiful, mesmerizing waterfalls is. The fact that you can observe so much water closely and vividly. Perpetual motion fueled by nothing other than gravity and rain. It is also said that waterfalls make people feel good because they generate negative ions (negatively charged air molecules created by a number of natural and electronic processes). Another great attribute is the soothing "white noise," a sound that engineers try to imitate for electronic gadgets that are designed to help you relax, concentrate or sleep.

*NOTE: Always be very cautious when walking near waterfalls. Some of the trails can be difficult or strenuous. People attempting strenuous hikes should be in good physical condition and be equipped with proper footwear for hiking. Always stay on established trails at all times. Also, be mindful of where you step when you reach the waterfall. People are killed every year at waterfalls, and this can be easily avoided by exercising care while visiting the waterfalls.

Check out our favorite local waterfalls and enjoy them for yourself.

Waterfall photographs provided by Dave Allen Photography.

Looking Glass Falls

One of the most popular and well known waterfall in Western North Carolina is Looking Glass Falls. This beautiful waterfall is right next to the road and there are stairs that take you to the bottom of the waterfall for an even better view. This waterfall is about 60' high. Swimming is allowed in the pool at the base; however remember wet rocks are very slippery so swim at your own risk.

From downtown Hendersonville head West on Hwy 64 to the Pisgah Forest entrance, drive north on Hwy 276 north for 5.6 miles and pull off in the paved lane on the right. Looking Glass Falls will be on your right.

Pearson's Falls

Pearson's Falls is on private property, owned by the Tryon Garden Club. There's a small fee - $3 per adult and $1 for kids 6-12 for access to the waterfall. It is 90feet high. The trail is easy and less than 1/2 mile.

From downtown Hendersonville take Spartanburg Hwy all the way past Saluda and through the gorge. It is about 4 miles north of Tryon near the bottom of the gorge. Then turn right on Pearson Falls Rd. The entrance to the falls is just under a mile on the left.

Triple Falls

Triple Falls flows on the Little River through the DuPont State Forest in Transylvania County. It has 3 distinct, different types of waterfalls. There are two views of the falls, one at the base, where you can only see the bottom falls, and a second upper overlook that allows you to view the entire falls. The water cascades above 120 ft. The hike to the trail view above is less than 1/2 mile and is easy to moderate. The trail is a gravel road trail and it is well maintained. The access is pretty easy is and there is an overlook near the picnic shelter.

From downtown Hendersonville Take Church St. south to Kanuga and turn right. Kanuga becomes Crab Creek Rd. after 3.9 miles at Little River Rd. (flashing traffic light). Continue on Crab Creek 7.1 miles to DuPont Rd. Turn left and continue for 3.1 miles to the parking area on the right near the bridge.

Hooker Falls

Hooker Falls flows on the Little River through the DuPont State Forest. The hike is about 1/4 mile along a gravel road. The waterfall is less than 15' high. There are 2 views of the falls, the first overlooking the falls from above, and a second view that lets you view the entire falls.

From downtown Hendersonville Take Church St. south to Kanuga and turn right. Kanuga becomes Crab Creek Rd. after 3.9 miles at Little River Rd. (flashing traffic light). Continue on Crab Creek 7.1 miles to DuPont Rd. Turn left and continue for 3.1 miles to the parking area on the right near the bridge.