About Glen Falls
Glen Falls drops in three distinct tiers, about 60 feet in all, on Overflow Creek south of Highlands, North Carolina. The name is often misspelled "Glenn." The falls are in Nantahala National Forest, not Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so no parking tag applies.
The hike
The trail starts at a small lot on Glen Falls Road and descends, with stairs and steep stretches, to a series of overlooks. It is short, roughly a half mile to the main views, but the return is an uphill climb, so allow time and carry water. Because the three drops can't be seen from one place, you move from overlook to overlook, and the lowest viewpoint takes the most effort.
Getting there
From downtown Highlands, follow the Forest Service signs for Glen Falls Scenic Area; the lot is a few miles south and west of town. From Gatlinburg or Cherokee, plan on a two-hour-plus drive across the mountains. The Highlands Chamber of Commerce lists nearby lodging and dining.
When to go
- Spring: Snowmelt and rain keep the creek full.
- Summer: Shaded and cool, but flow can thin.
- Fall: Good color; weekends are busy.
- Winter: Spray ice makes the stairs and rock slick. Bring traction.
Know before you go
Wet rock near the lower overlooks is the main hazard, so stay on the trail and do not climb around the falls. Cell service is spotty. Leave valuables out of your vehicle. Highlands sits above 4,000 feet, so weather can turn cool and wet even on a warm day in town.
Good to know
- How tall is Glen Falls?
- Glen Falls drops about 60 feet.
- How far is the hike to Glen Falls?
- It is about 0.5 miles each way, rated moderate.
- Can you swim or climb at the falls?
- Please don’t climb on or around waterfalls. Wet rock and algae are extremely slick, and falls from waterfalls are a leading cause of death in the Smokies. Enjoy the view from the trail.
