

While the 75 foot waterfall itself is absolutely enchanting, the real highlight here is walking behind the falls without getting wet, hence the appropriate name. At just a quarter of a mile, this one is easy enough for just about everyone (kid-friendly, handicap accessible). This hike to see this beauty is as close to no effort as you could possibly get. Location: 742 Chimney Rock Park Rd, Chimney Rock, NC 28720Īs one of the only Carolina waterfalls you can walk behind, Dry Falls should be high on your must-see list.Plus, there are numerous incredible viewpoints the entire way up, enabling you to enjoy views you wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity to see. It’s a much more rewarding experience to arrive at the stunning ending overlook via your own 2 feet.

Although the climb is a bit taxing, the grand 360 degree views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and rolling Blue Hill scenery really makes all your hard effort worth it in the end!Īlthough you may be tempted by the easier alternative route to the top (via one of the world’s only mountain elevators), completing the iconic climb is really part of the journey itself. Climb to the top of Chimney RockĮmbarking on the 499 step climb up to the top of the 535 million year old megalith known as Chimney Rock is a rewarding experience for anyone who appreciates nature. Of course, there are endless recreational opportunities to explore, so this list is by all means not all inclusive, but rather a helpful starting point! 1. Setting up base in Asheville puts you within easy daytrip distance to the region’s best natural sights and cultural attractions.įrom the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway (voted America’s Favorite Drive), to Mt Mitchell (the highest point east of the Mississippi at 6684 feet), natural wonders abound in every direction.īelow are 30 of the best things to see and do within the Western North Carolina region. The central hub of the region, Asheville, is a prominent foodie and vacation destination. The region is home to over 200 incredible waterfalls, including one of the highest east of the Mississippi. Western North Carolina is the picturesque mountainous region of the state most well-known its’ abundance of awe-inspiring wonders.
