Elk River Falls – North Carolina, US
Located near Beech Mountain, Banner Elk and the small town of Elk Park is the impressive Elk River Falls (formerly called Big Falls) in Pisgah National Forest (Appalachian Ranger District).
This 50-ft. North Carolina mountain waterfall cascades over a rock cliff and into a picturesque oval pool.
The trail to the top of the falls is an easy five-minute walk. You can safely stand on flat rock area and watch the waterfall plummet over the cliff.
A short, but steep trail takes below the falls. From the boulders above the waterfall, you will see your next destination in front of the falls. Return to the trail and head downhill. It’s a steep, but short walk with steps and tree roots for hiking assistance.
At the bottom, there’s a long flat boulder that is perfect for sitting and picnicking. To the LEFT of the boulders is the safe wading area (see below) downstream.
The currents in the pool directly in front of the waterfall are too strong for wading and have been deadly (including deaths in 2018 and severe injuries in 2019).
Video Source: Elk River Falls – Pisgah National Forest – North Carolina // 4K – DJI Mavic 2 Pro Footage from Nature In 4K By: Paul King on Youtube ⁄ CC BY