About Looking Glass Falls
Looking Glass Falls drops about 60 feet from Looking Glass Creek in Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard, North Carolina. You see it from the roadside on US-276, and a short staircase leads down to the plunge pool at the base. It is in the forest, not in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so no parking tag applies.
At the falls
The water plunges over a rock face into a deep pool. In the coldest weeks the spray can freeze across the rock and gleam like a mirror, which is often given as the source of the name. The roadside platform is an easy look for anyone, and the stairs add a closer view with mist on your face.
Getting there
The falls are on US-276 in the Pisgah Ranger District, about 5.6 miles north of the junction of US-276, US-64 and NC-280 near Brevard. From Gatlinburg, plan on about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The small pull-off beside the road fills quickly in summer and October, so arrive early or visit on a weekday. Check Pisgah National Forest for any road or parking notices.
When to go
- Spring: The fullest water and the loudest roar.
- Summer: Cool, but crowded; weekday mornings are best.
- Fall: Good color around the falls.
- Winter: Ice can build on the rock; stairs and the road edge can be slick.
Two more waterfalls on the same road
Sliding Rock, a natural water slide, is up the road, and a trail to Moore Cove Falls leaves from a pull-off on the same highway. Together they make a good half-day. The Davidson River area and the town of Brevard offer food and lodging.
Know before you go
Stay off wet rock near the base, and keep an eye on traffic when you cross to the platform. Cell service is limited.
Good to know
- How tall is Looking Glass Falls?
- Looking Glass Falls drops about 60 feet.
- 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.
