This Stunning Waterfall Hike Is A Hidden Gem In North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest

Deep within North Carolina's Pisgah National Forest, Moore Cove Falls is a rare, serene surprise just waiting to be discovered. Just off US 276, a short, easy trail (about 1.4 miles round trip) winds through moss-clad bridge crossings, thick rhododendron, ferns, and wildflowers — a quiet curtain separating you from the buzz of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Along this shaded path, you'll encounter blooms like trilliums, foamflower, and showy orchids in all their springtime glory.

What truly makes this unforgettable is the 50-foot plunge of Moore Cove Falls cascading from an overhanging bluff. The trail opens onto a viewing platform where visitors can safely gaze upon — or even step behind — the falls, enveloped by its gentle mist. This is a region often called "land of the waterfalls," with several of these little treasures scattered throughout like Dry Falls near Asheville, one of the prettiest in the state and perfect for family-friendly hiking.

Although Moore Cove Falls is a popular hike — especially in summer — it often feels more tranquil than busier roadside attractions like Sliding Rock or Looking Glass Falls, where parking congestion is common. It delivers a restorative, nature-first experience. Useful trail markers and bridges eases hikers through cool, cove-forest terrain, and a few gentle boardwalks and well-placed wooden crossings guide hikers across Moore Creek as they approach the waterfall.

Families and dog lovers alike appreciate the trail's approachable character: a light grade, manageable elevation gain, and a well-trodden path make it accessible to children and leashed pets. The opportunity to stand behind the cascade adds a playful, almost magical moment to your adventure — especially when spring blooms frame the mist. Photographers will love playing with long exposure and finding unique vantage points all around the falls for the perfect shot.

Despite its air of enchantment, the Moore Cove Falls Trail isn't without its cautions. Slick rocks surround the falls, and the forest floor can grow muddy after rain, so watch your step and make sure to wear sturdy shoes. Even more important — resist the urge to climb above the falls. Traversing unofficial paths can have fatal consequences.

Timing your visit matters. The flow of the falls varies seasonally. In drier periods, the cascades can dwindle to a whisper, while the falls are most striking mid-rainfall. For anyone with a fondness for flowers, spring — especially April through mid-May — is just perfect. The trail comes alive with vibrant wildflower blossoms.

After experiencing Moore Cove Falls, consider extending your outing to other forested gems in Pisgah National Forest, like the beautiful river views along the Davidson River Campground in an Eastern US National Forest. You can also treat yourself to a meal in nearby Brevard or go for a beautiful drive along the underrated Forest Heritage Scenic Byway. That quiet hush behind the falls will linger long after the trail ends. You'll feel it in your heart, reminding you that some of life's most spectacular gifts are often hidden in plain sight.