North Carolina has many waterfalls worth visiting. Soco Falls and Mingo Falls are two new favorites worth the drive.
Did you know that North Carolina has over 800 waterfalls? That’s a lot to choose from! On our way back to Chattanooga from camping in Waynesville, NC, my friend and I decided to stop at two. Continue reading for details about each and tips for your visit.
About Soco Falls
Soco Falls is about 50 feet tall and consists of two waterfalls that diverge into one creek. The main creek is named Soco, hence the name of the waterfall as a whole. Soco Falls is located between Cherokee and Maggie Valley on U.S. 19. It’s not far from the Blue Ridge Parkway and worth the detour if you’re traveling on the south end of the parkway. This area is called Soco Gap and was an ambush spot for the Cherokee during battles.
Tips for Visiting Soco Falls
The Soco Falls Trailhead is right beside the road on U.S. 19. If you’re following Google Maps, be sure to ignore the part where it mentions going down a gravel road. Instead, use the pull-off beside the road. The parking area can only hold a few cars and fills up quickly. I recommend arriving early to get a spot as this is a popular location.
The hike down to Soco Falls is short but treacherous. At first there’s a dirt ramp and some stone steps that lead out to a wooden overlook platform. If you want to keep your hike stress-free, this vantage point is sufficient. However, I have heard it’s better in the winter than in the summer months because the trees will somewhat block your view. If you decide to venture down to the base of the falls, which I recommend if you’re able, proceed with caution. This is not the most technical hike I’ve done even though it looks scary. And, if it’s rained recently, use extra caution as the rocks and ground will be muddy and slick. There’s ropes to give you something to hold onto as you climb down the boulders and back up. Although, I believe they added a false sense of security and were not really necessary for me. If you’re short in height, you may find them more beneficial than I did.
Soco Falls will be more full and flowing stronger in the winter months due to more rain. And with the visibility being better at this time of the year, I cannot recommend a winter visit enough. Just be aware of the rain. When we went it had rained the night before so everything was slick, but it wasn’t too bad. Overall the hike is less than a quarter of a mile round trip.
Take the Blue Ridge Parkway
Since the Blue Ridge Parkway is right by Soco Falls, it makes sense to take it to its end in Cherokee. Plus, our next waterfall stop is near the exit so it’s perfect for the scenic drive. Enjoy breathtaking views along one of the most scenic drives in the eastern United States. However, I will warn you that even if there’s no ice, sections of the parkway are closed in the winter time. In fact, on this particular trip we tried to do this exact drive but had to turn around at the Plott Balsam Overlook. We accidentally went the wrong way at first on the parkway and thoroughly enjoyed having a snack at one of the many overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway. At least we tried and even though we made no progress in distance it was well worth the detour.
About Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls is another popular waterfall located in Cherokee, NC. This waterfall stands at an impressive 120 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’re starting a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway, consider stopping here before hopping on the southern terminus of the parkway that’s just south of here. Or, if you’re like us, Mingo Falls is a great addition for your drive back to Chattanooga after stopping at Soco Falls. They are roughly a thirty minute drive apart.
Tips for Visiting Mingo Falls
Just like Soco Fall, the directions in Google Maps can be a little confusing for Mingo Falls. However, it’s mostly correct and as you get close, you’ll start to see road signs for this waterfall attraction. Follow the road signs for a more direct route. You’ll cross over a creek and end in a small parking lot. Again, there’s only room for a few cars so I suggest arriving early or on a weekday in the off-season (winter or spring) in order to get a parking spot. There’s also porta potties available for use in the parking area.
The hike up to Mingo Falls is also short, but a bit of a workout. It starts out with over 160 steps, then levels out more to a rocky, dirt-packed trail. If it’s rained recently, there will be puddles and slick, muddy spots to navigate. Overall, the hike is not too dangerous. The trail ends on a wooden bridge that faces the magnificent Mingo Falls. Overall the hike is less than a quarter of a mile round trip.
Mingo Falls will of course be fuller in the winter months due to the rains. But, it’s also known to freeze over if it’s cold enough. So, if you’d rather see a frozen waterfall than a watery one, consider the temperatures around the time you plan to visit. Just another reason to visit in the winter time.
Picnic in Oconaluftee Island Park
As we close out our North Carolina winter camping trip, I have to mention Oconaluftee Island Park. This park is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic dinner just like we did. Or, if you want to get in some more miles because those short waterfall hikes weren’t enough, the park has plenty of walking trails. Just be aware that there might be ducks wanting to share your food with you. Please do NOT feed them. Feeding the ducks will negatively affect their livelihood in the park.
In the summer months, this park is popular for wading or floating in the creek, as well as fishing. During the winter though, I would suggest sticking to walking the trails and staying out of the cold water, for obvious reasons.
In Conclusion
When you find yourself in western North Carolina, be sure to add Soco Falls and Mingo Falls to your waterfall chasing list. They’re both extremely short hikes and offer amazing, waterfall views.
Be sure to watch this week’s video as my friend and I complete our trip, visit these waterfalls, and more.
If you missed the previous two days of this three day trip, catch up here: Day 1 and Day 2.
Have you explored some of the mountains in North Carolina? If so, comment below and let me know your thoughts on the area. I’d love to know what you think! North Carolina is close enough to Chattanooga to make for a great day-trip getaway or a weekend camping trip. Until next time, enjoy exploring Chatt!
