Outdoor Guide
Waterfalls, hikes & outdoor events — NC High Country
The NC High Country has some of the most accessible waterfalls and trail systems in the Southeast. Below: a live list of upcoming outdoor events from our calendar, plus a quick guide to four of the best waterfall hikes in the region.
Upcoming outdoor events
Pulled live from our events calendar.
Outdoor & Hiking
National Trails Day Scavenger Hunt
Sat, Jun 6, 2026
Profile Trail
Outdoor & Hiking
Live Music at 5506' With Brown Oak Assembly
Sat, Jun 6, 2026
NC
Outdoor & Hiking
Animal Birthday Party
Tue, Jun 9, 2026
Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Outdoor & Hiking
Animal Birthday Weekend
Tue, Jun 9, 2026
Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation
Outdoor & Hiking
Animal Birthday Party!
Wed, Jun 10, 2026
Grandfather Mountain
Outdoor & Hiking
Animal Birthday Party
Wed, Jun 10, 2026
Grandfather Mountain, 2050 Blowing Rock Highway, Linville, NC, 28646, United States
Waterfall quick guide
Easy0.8 mi
Linville Falls
0.8mi to upper falls overlook, paved parking — the most accessible major waterfall in the region.
Moderate0.5 mi
Elk Falls (Elk Park)
0.5mi steep descent to a wide 50ft plunge pool — popular swimming hole on summer weekends.
Moderate1.5 mi
Glen Burney Falls (Blowing Rock)
1.5mi, dog-friendly, accessed via Annie Cannon Park in downtown Blowing Rock.
Strenuous3 mi RT
Upper Creek Falls
3mi round trip on Wilson Creek — one of the tallest cascades in the region.