01
Silver Run Falls
The closest waterfall to the cottage. A short, easy walk from a pull-off on Highway 107 leads to a pretty cascade and a swimming hole. A good first outing on arrival day.
Get directions
Waterfalls and Hikes Near Sapphire Valley
The Cashiers and Highlands plateau sits in the heart of Western North Carolina's Land of Waterfalls. These are the falls and trails we point our guests to first, most within half an hour of the cottage.
Sapphire Valley, from above the cottage
02
Whitewater Falls
One of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. A short paved path leads to an overlook with a long view of the falls dropping down the gorge.
Get directions03
Gorges State Park
Miles of trails, plus Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Falls along the Horsepasture River. Stop at the visitor center first for maps and trail conditions, then make a day of it.
Get directions04
Panthertown Valley
Often called the Yosemite of the East, with more than 30 miles of trails, granite domes, and backcountry waterfalls in the Nantahala National Forest. Trails are not all well marked, so bring a map.
Get directions05
Whiteside Mountain
A loop of about two miles to some of the biggest views on the plateau, along the top of sheer granite cliffs. Steep in places and worth every step.
Get directions06
Dry Falls
A short paved path takes you behind the curtain of water, close enough to feel the spray. Easy for nearly everyone and a favorite with kids.
Get directions07
Cliffside Lake
A calm mountain lake with easy trails around the shore, picnic shelters, and swimming in summer. A gentle half day after a bigger hike.
Get directionsGood to know: drive times are from the cottage and approximate. Waterfall rocks are slippery, so stay on marked trails and off the top of the falls. For fly fishing, the Horsepasture River and the streams around Cashiers are close by, and a local fly shop can point you to the right water.
Stay nearby
Come Back to the Fire.
After a day on the trails, The Woodland Cottage is a few minutes away, with a wood-burning fireplace, two firepits, and room for up to eight.