© 1999 Jon Binder
Overview
Ratings (ratings explained)
Power: 5/10
Beauty: 7/10
Ease of Access: 6/10
Courthouse Falls is a beautiful 50 foot falls in the Pisgah National Forest that is reached by an easy quater-mile walk, but a rather difficult drive (hence the ease of access rating). Regular cars can make the drive, however, and it's worth the trip.
Photos
Directions
To get to Courthouse Falls, drive about 10 miles north on NC route 215 from its interesection with U.S. route 64. Turn right (east) onto Forest Road 180 (FR 180). This point is also accessible by driving south on 215 from the Blue Ridge Parkway. This is a gravel road that can be quite bumpy and loose in spots. Normal cars won't have any major problems, but be careful and take your time. It's a slow, but beautiful, 3 mile drive along this road to the bridge over Courthouse Creek. Park on the side of the road after crossing the bridge; make sure you're not blocking traffic. The trail begins on the downstream side of the bridge, and leads a quater of a mile to the falls.
Description
Courthouse Falls is a very nice place. The trail from FR 180 is easy and pretty flat, until a left turn brings you down some steep stairs to the base of the falls. The water plunges down into a small pool. The surroundings create a very pleasant atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds. Linger awhile at Courthouse Falls, before making the walk back to your car to begin the slow drive out.
Looking Glass Falls, Moore's Cove Falls, and Twin Falls are also located in this same general area of Pisgah National Forest.
<< Back to List of North Carolina Waterfalls
Page Last Revised: March 31, 2002
