High Falls, aka Cullowhee Falls, is one of my absolute favorite waterfalls—and it’s just a five-minute drive from the cabins to the lakeside trail! The West Fork of the Tuckasegee River flows from the dam at Lake Glenville, and the trail leads you to a gorgeous box canyon just downstream. There, soaring granite cliffs surround a stunning double drop waterfall with a deep pool below.
This spot is popular for good reason—it’s close to both Cashiers and Western Carolina University, making it a frequent destination for locals and visitors alike.
On hot summer days, I sometimes swim there—though the water is always ice cold, so it has to be really hot. Important: never swim on dam release days! In the summer, Duke Energy schedules dam releases, turning the waterfall into a roaring torrent. These releases also create Class III–IV rapids downstream, drawing expert kayakers for a thrilling adventure. That said, unscheduled releases can happen, especially after heavy rain, so always use caution.
Safety & Trail Etiquette
- Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and ensure safety.
- Be cautious near the waterfall; rocks can be slippery, and currents strong.
- Check for dam release schedules before planning your visit.
- Carry essentials like water, snacks, and a map; cell service is unreliable
Two Ways to Reach High Falls
Lakeside Trailhead (Pines Recreation Area)
- Address: 1966 Pine Creek Road, Cullowhee, NC 28723
- Distance from 5127 NC-107 N: Approximately 2.5 miles (about 5 minutes)
Driving Directions From the Cabins:
- Head north on NC-107 N for about 0.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Pine Creek Road.
- Continue on Pine Creek Road for approximately 2 miles.
- The Pines Recreation Area parking lot will be on your right, just past the dam.
Trail Details:
- Trail Length: 0.7 miles one-way (1.4 miles round-trip)
- Elevation Change: Approximately 650 feet descent
- Difficulty: Strenuous due to steep descent and ascent with numerous stone steps
- Features: Access to the base of High Falls, scenic views, and proximity to Lake Glenville
This trailhead was developed by Duke Energy and is located across the street from the Pines Recreation Area, which features a public beach, fishing pier, and picnic area.
Don’t underestimate this short trail—it’s steep both down and back up. My personal record is hiking in and out in under an hour, but I was red-faced and out of breath by the time I reached the car! This trail brings you to the west side of High Falls, which is also where kayakers launch on dam release days.
North Trailhead (Shoal Creek Mountain Road)
- Address: Shoal Creek Mountain Road, Glenville, NC 28736
- Distance from 5127 NC-107 N: Approximately 3.5 miles (about 8 minutes)
Driving Directions From the Cabins:
- Head north on NC-107 N for about 1.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Shoal Creek Mountain Road (a sharp left turn).
- Proceed 0.3 miles; the trailhead is behind an orange gate on the right.
- Park along the road shoulder, ensuring not to block any driveways or gates.
Trail Details:
- Trail Length: 3.8 miles round-trip
- Elevation Change: Approximately 670 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate with a more gradual ascent/descent
- Features: Views of Rough Run Falls (also known as Thurston Hatcher Falls) at 1.65 miles, access to the east side of High Falls, and a more secluded hiking experience
The north trailhead is located on Shoal Creek Mountain Road and passes through private property that has been generously opened to the public—please be respectful and follow all posted guidelines.
Parking is on the right side of the gravel road. Enter through the orange gate. Just past the bridge, follow the trail on the left and uphill.
About 1.65 miles in, look for a short side path leading to a scenic view of Rough Run Falls (also called Thurston Hatcher Falls), visible across the river.
Continuing on, you’ll reach the east side of High Falls. The final approach includes some rock scrambling if you want to get close, but there are also great views from a bit farther downstream.
When to Go
Both trails are especially beautiful in the spring when wildflowers bloom along the path. I’ve spotted several types of trillium, squirrel corn, Dutchman’s breeches, showy orchis, and wild geranium. These spring ephemerals usually bloom in April, depending on the weather.
Summer and fall bring their own delights, but honestly—High Falls is worth visiting any time of year. It’s always stunning.
