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Looking Glass Falls, North Carolina Waterfall |
| Waterfalls | Looking Glass Rock | Brevard | Pisgah National Forest | Cradle of Forestry | Sliding Rock |
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Looking Glass Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Western North Carolina, and perhaps the easiest to view. The name "Looking Glass" comes from Looking Glass Rock, where water freezes on its sides in the winter and then glistens in the sunlight like a mirror or looking glass. Looking Glass Creek, which flows past the rock, is also named for the impressive natural structure. Its easy accessibility makes Looking Glass Falls a popular spot for travelers along U.S. 276 near Brevard in the Pisgah National Forest. The view on left is taken from the parking area along the road. The waterfall is 60 feet tall.
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Steps lead down to the falls for a close-up view. You can venture onto the rocks in the stream below the falls, and even do some wading and swim underneath the falling water. The photo at top was taken at the base of the falls. For photographers, the sun comes up over the waterfall in the morning.
To get to Looking Glass Falls, either take U.S. 276 North from Brevard about nine miles. Or take U.S. 276 South from the Blue Ridge Parkway for about 10 miles. There is no admission fee.
Nearby are Sliding Rock and the Forest Discovery Center at the Cradle of Forestry.
Read about more waterfalls in the Asheville area. |
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Nearby: Moore Cove Falls
Just a mile down U.S. Highway 276 from Looking Glass Falls is the trailhead for the 50-foot Moore Cove Falls. (From Looking Glass Falls, drive toward the Blue Ridge Parkway and Sliding Rock.) The water flow is not impressive, but you can walk behind it! This 1.5 mile roundtrip hike starts by crossing a wooden pedestrian bridge over Looking Glass Creek. The trail travels primarily through a lush, vibrant cove hardwood forest the entire way. Trees such as tulip poplar, oak, and maple can be found, along with dark, lacy hemlocks. The trail climbs moderately at first, then levels out some and even goes downhill a bit. You'll cross Moore Creek several times. The last climb just before the falls is the steepest, but it is not difficult and it is short. You'll end up on the right side of the cove, with a spectacular view of the falls. The trail continues on and behind the falls and on a hot day, the showery spray is inviting. Be careful on wet and slippery rocks, however and do NOT attempt to reach the top of the falls.
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