Celebrated as North Carolina’s Land of Waterfalls, Brevard and Transylvania County have much more than gorgeous cascades. Their All-American Main Street is full of local shops, galleries, and great restaurants. A stately courthouse sits on the square with a gazebo where community concerts are held. Located between Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest and Gorges State Park, Brevard affords visitors endless outdoor adventures, including hiking, mountain biking, waterfall hunting, fly fishing and much more.
Brevard's "Leave It Better" Program
We always encourage you to "Leave No Trace" when exploring trails and we're excited to partner with Brevard's “Leave It Better” program, taking it a step further! The "Leave It Better" program is designed to inspire explorers of our natural lands to leave it better than they found it with a six-step, easy-to-follow checklist you can put into practice each time you get outdoors. Happy trails! Read more about Brevard's "Leave It Better" program.
Known as one of the top mountain biking destinations in the US, Brevard sports 300 miles of epic single track in the pristine forests throughout Transylvania County. A destination for cyclists of all types, the area is also known for its road cycling and excellent cycling shops, where guides and gear are always available.
Downtown hosts several fun festivals throughout the year, including The White Squirrel Festival, Halloweenfest and Twilight Tour, but visitors can find much to explore year-round. Favorite stops include O.P. Taylor's toy store on the square and D.D. Bullwinkle's Outdoors.
Brevard’s most famous local residents are its white squirrels. These special little creatures have flourished in Brevard since escaping a visiting carnival in Florida in the early 1950s. You might catch a glimpse of them as they scurry around the local trees, especially on the Brevard College Campus. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir from local shops!
Brevard is located along scenic Highway 64. It's a popular hub for exploring Pisgah National Forest. Much of the area is a temperate rainforest with 90+ inches of rain a year, hence 250 waterfalls. The most visited waterfall is Looking Glass Falls (pic), and summer favorite Sliding Rock.
Hike to the top of iconic Looking Glass Rock or to the stunning waterfalls of DuPont State Forest. See Brevard's Be Waterfall Wise page for tips, current conditions, waterfall safety cards, and waterfall safety videos.
To find more hiking and waterfalls nearby, see our Pisgah Forest Waterfall & Hiking Map.
Head west on Highway 64 toward Cashiers for Lake Toxaway, Gorges State Park, and the Nantahala National Forest, home to Panthertown Valley and Schoolhouse Falls.
For a small mountain town, Brevard has a larger-than-average share of culture. It is home to the world-renowned Brevard Music Center and its extraordinary Summer Music Festival, the Porter Center for Performing Arts at Brevard College, and a vibrant live music community.
PARI (Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute) is an internationally known science and space learning center located near Brevard in Pisgah National Forest. Schedule a visit to tour this former NASA campus with space artifacts, minerals, meteorites, and more. For a list of stargazing events, visit PARI's website.
Go to the Explore Brevard Website to discover many more exciting things to do.
Directions from Asheville: I-26 to exit 40/Highway 280/Airport exit toward Brevard. Downtown Brevard is 33 miles from Downtown Asheville. For a super scenic drive, take the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway from Brevard to or from the Blue Ridge Parkway.
See more of our Coolest NC Mountain Small Towns. Hendersonville is 20 miles east, and Cashiers is 28 miles west.
Brevard Things to Do
Rainbow Falls
(3 miles round-trip, moderate) This majestic 150-ft. waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest can be reached via a hiking trail from Gorges State Park. Enjoy the falls safely on a boulder at its… read more
(3 miles round-trip, moderate) This majestic 150-ft. waterfall in the Pisgah National Forest can be reached via a hiking trail from Gorges State Park. Enjoy the falls safely on a boulder at its base or at the top. A little upstream is Turtleback Falls, a cool summer swimming hole.
Looking Glass Falls
Roadside 60-ft. waterfall in Pisgah National Forest along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Enjoy from the parking area or take the steps down for an up-close look. 10 miles from Blue Ridge… read more
Roadside 60-ft. waterfall in Pisgah National Forest along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. Enjoy from the parking area or take the steps down for an up-close look. 10 miles from Blue Ridge Parkway.
Brevard's "Leave It Better" Program
We always encourage you to "Leave No Trace" when exploring trails and we're excited to partner with Brevard's “Leave It Better” program, taking it a step further! The "Leave It Better" program is… read more
We always encourage you to "Leave No Trace" when exploring trails and we're excited to partner with Brevard's “Leave It Better” program, taking it a step further! The "Leave It Better" program is designed to inspire explorers of our natural lands to leave it better than they found it with a six-step, easy-to-follow checklist you can put into practice each time you get outdoors. Happy trails!…
Skyterra Wellness Retreat
A beautiful mountain retreat in the Land of the Waterfalls where you set aside life’s obligations to focus on your own health and well-being. Stress management, fitness, and culinary experts helps… read more
A beautiful mountain retreat in the Land of the Waterfalls where you set aside life’s obligations to focus on your own health and well-being. Stress management, fitness, and culinary experts helps you break old cycles, jump start new habits, and embrace the healthy, revitalized lifestyle. Spa treatments are customized. Stay for a week, or as long as you'd like. Rates include daily yoga,…
The Greystone Inn, Lake Toxaway
This luxury, picturesque boutique resort is perched on the shores of pristine Lake Toxaway surrounded by National Forests. Amenities include a spa, gourmet dining, lake cruise, golf, tennis, and… read more
This luxury, picturesque boutique resort is perched on the shores of pristine Lake Toxaway surrounded by National Forests. Amenities include a spa, gourmet dining, lake cruise, golf, tennis, and many water activities. Unwind with gracious hospitality, rocking chairs and feather topped beds. 30 rooms & suites, $249-$689, wi-fi, turndown service, shoe shine, canoes/kayaks/paddleboards. Their…
Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway
Another nationally-recognized scenic drive is this winding 79-mile route that crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway twice (milepost 412 at U.S. Highway 276 and milepost 423 at N.C. Highway 215). The… read more
Another nationally-recognized scenic drive is this winding 79-mile route that crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway twice (milepost 412 at U.S. Highway 276 and milepost 423 at N.C. Highway 215). The Forest Heritage Scenic Byway is also named the Copperhead Loop by motorcyclists who love all the curves. Stop at waterfalls, hiking trails, Sliding Rock and the Cradle of Forestry. In the photo is…
Waterfall Byway: US Highway 64
Drive 98 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains, through charming towns and by plenty of beautiful waterfalls. Begin in Chimney Rock and travel west on U.S. Highway 64 by Lake Toxaway and through… read more
Drive 98 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains, through charming towns and by plenty of beautiful waterfalls. Begin in Chimney Rock and travel west on U.S. Highway 64 by Lake Toxaway and through Cashiers and Highlands. Stop at roadside waterfalls Dry Falls and Bridal Veil as you enter the Cullasaja River Gorge. The last section is also called Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.
Brevard Adventure Guide
Order your free 48-page Adventure Guide for Brevard and Transylvania County, Land of the Waterfalls, with scenic drives, hikes, waterfall map, festivals, art, museums and picturesque Main Street… read more
Order your free 48-page Adventure Guide for Brevard and Transylvania County, Land of the Waterfalls, with scenic drives, hikes, waterfall map, festivals, art, museums and picturesque Main Street.
The Learning Center at PARI
This former NASA campus in Pisgah National Forest is now a fascinating space and science center open for camps, events and occasional tours. See exhibit galleries, a gem and meteorite collection,… read more
This former NASA campus in Pisgah National Forest is now a fascinating space and science center open for camps, events and occasional tours. See exhibit galleries, a gem and meteorite collection, hands-on research and star gazing nights. Previously called Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute.
Cathey's Creek Falls
This 80-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest is just six miles west of downtown Brevard near U.S. Highway 64. It's a short but steep hike to the cascade hidden away in a lush cove.
This 80-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest is just six miles west of downtown Brevard near U.S. Highway 64. It's a short but steep hike to the cascade hidden away in a lush cove.
Cradle of Forestry
(2 miles loop, easy) Walk paved, accessible trails to see restored buildings from the early 1900s and learn about how forestry began in the United States. Perfect for strollers, wheelchairs and … read more
(2 miles loop, easy) Walk paved, accessible trails to see restored buildings from the early 1900s and learn about how forestry began in the United States. Perfect for strollers, wheelchairs and scooters.
Oskar Blues Brewery
(342 Mountain Industrial Drive, Brevard) Oskar Blues' east coast brewery opened in 2012. The Tasty Weasel taproom is open daily with free tours of the brewery. Sample specialty draft ales, enjoy… read more
(342 Mountain Industrial Drive, Brevard) Oskar Blues' east coast brewery opened in 2012. The Tasty Weasel taproom is open daily with free tours of the brewery. Sample specialty draft ales, enjoy live music and gather with friends.
Looking Glass Rock
If you are a looking for a nice reward after a challenging hike, head to this well-known rock face summit in Pisgah National Forest. You will ascend about 1,700 feet in just over three miles. The… read more
If you are a looking for a nice reward after a challenging hike, head to this well-known rock face summit in Pisgah National Forest. You will ascend about 1,700 feet in just over three miles. The views from the top are well worth the effort. There is plenty of space to relax on the rock face with your picnic! Then it's downhill all the way back to the car.
Allison-Deaver House
Located in Brevard, this is the oldest frame house in western NC (dating back to 1815). Tour the home and beautiful grounds mid-May through mid-October on Saturdays 10 AM-4 PM and Sundays 1-4 PM.… read more
Located in Brevard, this is the oldest frame house in western NC (dating back to 1815). Tour the home and beautiful grounds mid-May through mid-October on Saturdays 10 AM-4 PM and Sundays 1-4 PM. Operated by the Transylvania County Historical Society. 2753 Asheville Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC.
Sliding Rock
The most popular natural waterslide in North Carolina for generations is in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. Slide down a 60-ft. smooth rock waterfall into a pool of chilly water. Bathrooms… read more
The most popular natural waterslide in North Carolina for generations is in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard. Slide down a 60-ft. smooth rock waterfall into a pool of chilly water. Bathrooms and showers are open, and lifeguards are on duty during warmer months.
Lake Toxaway
This pristine, scenic mountain lake is surrounded by a community with many things to do - located near Brevard. Take a lake cruise at Greystone Inn, be a beekeeper for a day, stay at a wellness… read more
This pristine, scenic mountain lake is surrounded by a community with many things to do - located near Brevard. Take a lake cruise at Greystone Inn, be a beekeeper for a day, stay at a wellness retreat and see Toxaway Falls.
Brevard Places to Stay
Find cabins of all sizes, hotels, B&Bs and luxury inns in the Brevard area from their official visitor center. It's the Land of Waterfalls. Includes Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State… read more
Find cabins of all sizes, hotels, B&Bs and luxury inns in the Brevard area from their official visitor center. It's the Land of Waterfalls. Includes Pisgah National Forest and DuPont State Forest.
Land of Waterfalls for All
See a list of nine don’t-miss attractions and activities that are easily accessible if you use a wheelchair, a walker, or need other physical assistance.
See a list of nine don’t-miss attractions and activities that are easily accessible if you use a wheelchair, a walker, or need other physical assistance.
Restaurants in Brevard
Find a variety of places to eat and drink in Brevard including upscale dining casual eateries, pubs, food trucks, bakeries, coffee shops, and more!
Find a variety of places to eat and drink in Brevard including upscale dining casual eateries, pubs, food trucks, bakeries, coffee shops, and more!
DuPont State Forest
Hike, mountain bike or horseback ride a multitude of trails to see many waterfalls and lakes on 10,000 acres. Plus, picnic on mountaintops and swim at Hooker Falls. Visitor center, free admission… read more
Hike, mountain bike or horseback ride a multitude of trails to see many waterfalls and lakes on 10,000 acres. Plus, picnic on mountaintops and swim at Hooker Falls. Visitor center, free admission.
Be Waterfall Wise Safety Tips
Brevard & NC’s Land of Waterfalls is a popular destination for exploring waterfalls. See their Be Waterfall Wise page for tips including current conditions, waterfall safety cards, and… read more
Brevard & NC’s Land of Waterfalls is a popular destination for exploring waterfalls. See their Be Waterfall Wise page for tips including current conditions, waterfall safety cards, and waterfall safety videos.
Brevard Top Events
Brevard Music Center Summer Festival
Jul 09, 2021One of the country's premier summer music festivals with 100+ performances by 500 students from around the world - joined by faculty and visiting artists for symphony, opera, pops, chamber,… read more
One of the country's premier summer music festivals with 100+ performances by 500 students from around the world - joined by faculty and visiting artists for symphony, opera, pops, chamber, cabaret, Americana, and jazz. Artist Director is Keith Lockhart (Boston Pops).
Aluminum Christmas Tree Museum
Nov 11, 2023 - Jan 20, 2023This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard features dozens of vintage aluminum Christmas trees and more than 400 Shiny Brite ornaments and tree toppers inside the Transylvania Heritage Museum. This… read more
This quirky exhibit in downtown Brevard features dozens of vintage aluminum Christmas trees and more than 400 Shiny Brite ornaments and tree toppers inside the Transylvania Heritage Museum. This year's event will also feature a room devoted to Elvis with blue aluminum trees and Elvis memorabilia and a mid-century modern train village. A fun trip back in time! Thurs-Sat. Free admission.
White Squirrel Weekend
May 26, 2023 - May 28, 2023Go nuts at this 3 day festival in downtown Brevard that features a parade, plenty of live music, food, arts and much more on Memorial Day Weekend.
Go nuts at this 3 day festival in downtown Brevard that features a parade, plenty of live music, food, arts and much more on Memorial Day Weekend.
