Highlands, NC has definitely become one of my favorite places to escape to for beautiful hikes and scenery. One of the main reasons is how many easy hikes near Highlands, NC there are. I mean, some of them you barely have to walk from your car to experience.
If you’re trying to find trails that are simple but still worth it, this post will help you narrow it down.
Dry Falls
Distance: 0.4 miles roundtrip
Location: About 5 minutes from downtown Highlands
AllTrails Link
Dry Falls is one of the most popular and accessible waterfall hikes near Highlands. The paved path leads down to the massive waterfall that you can see fully as soon as you turn the corner. Plus, you can actually walk behind the waterfall without getting soaked (though you may feel some mist).
There are stairs, but they’re manageable if you take your time. The trail is short, well-maintained, and clearly marked, which makes it one of the best easy waterfall hikes near Highlands for first-time visitors.
There is a designated parking lot, and it fills up quickly on weekends.
Bridal Veil Falls
Distance: Minimal walking
Location: Just outside downtown Highlands
AllTrails Link
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in the Highlands area. You even used to be able to drive behind it (as of recent, driving has been blocked but you can still walk behind it). While there isn’t a formal hiking trail here, there is space to park and walk around for better views.
If you’re looking for scenic stops near Highlands without committing to a hike, this is a great option. It’s also an easy add-on if you’re already exploring other waterfalls along Highway 64.
Glen Falls
Distance: Approximately 3 miles roundtrip
Location: About 10 minutes from Highlands
AllTrails Link
Glen Falls offers multiple tiers of waterfalls along one trail. The hike begins with a steady downhill walk through the forest, leading to scenic waterfall overlooks.
Since the first half is downhill, remember that your return hike will be uphill. It’s gradual and manageable if you pace yourself. The trail can be rocky and damp near the falls,
If you need a good option for hiking shoes, I highly recommend The Women’s Moab Speed 2
Although this is one slightly longer, it’s still a great beginner-friendly hike near Highlands.
Sunset Rock
Distance: 0.5 miles roundtrip
Location: Less than 5 minutes from downtown Highlands
AllTrails Link
Sunset Rock is one of the closest hiking trails to downtown Highlands. The path is short and leads to a rocky overlook with wide mountain views.
It’s especially beautiful at golden hour, but it’s peaceful any time of day. Because it’s so short, it’s a great option if you want a quick scenic walk before dinner or after coffee in town.
Parking is roadside, so arrive earlier in the day if possible.
Secret Falls (Big Shoals Falls)
Distance: About 1 mile roundtrip
Location: Approximately 20 minutes from Highlands
AllTrails Link
Secret Falls requires driving down a gravel forest road before reaching the trailhead. The hike itself isn’t too long, and it’s all downhill to get to the waterfall from the parking lot. So the hike back up will require a little effort, but it isn’t too crazy.
The trail follows alongside the creek and leads to a waterfall that feels more like a true forest hike compared to Dry Falls. Since this hike is further from downtown Highlands, it’s a great option if you prefer something less crowded.
Spending the weekend? Also see: The Perfect Weekend Guide to Highlands, NC
Ranger Falls
Distance: Around 1.5 miles roundtrip
Location: Near Secret Falls
AllTrails Link
Ranger Falls shares part of the same trail access as Secret Falls, making this a perfect add-on if you’re already in the area. The hike follows along the river and stays relatively gentle throughout.
The trail stays close to the river, and the incline builds gradually instead of all at once. It’s a steady climb the whole way but it’s still considered a pretty easy hike near Highlands, NC.
Bust Your Butt Falls
Distance: Minimal walking
Location: Along US-64 between Highlands and Franklin
Bust Your Butt Falls is more of a scenic stop than a full hike, but it’s still worth including. There’s plenty of roadside parking and it’s a short walk down to the base of the waterfall. It’s highly ranked on the list of easy hikes near Highlands, NC too!
In summer, people sometimes swim here, but even if you’re just stopping for photos, it’s a beautiful and easy waterfall to visit near Highlands.
Use caution when parking, the area can get busy.
Cliffside Lake Recreation Area
Distance: 1 mile loop
Location: About 15 minutes from Highlands
AllTrails Link
Cliffside Lake offers a flat, easy hike near Highlands, NC around a small lake. There are picnic tables, fishing access, and restrooms available, making it a good, family-friendly option.
The trail loops around the lake and stays mostly flat the entire way. It’s an easy walk with open water views and plenty of space to move at your own pace.
Whiteside Mountain (Partial Loop Option)
Distance: 2 miles for the full loop (you can turn around early)
Location: About 10 minutes from Highlands
AllTrails Link
Whiteside Mountain is more moderate overall, but if you take the gradual incline side of the loop first and go at your own pace, it can still work for confident beginners.
The payoff is expansive mountain views and a wide overlook that feels open and peaceful. Download a map beforehand and follow the route that climbs gradually first rather than heading straight up.
Black Rock Mountain State Park (Short Overlooks)
Distance: 0.5–1 mile options
Location: About 45 minutes from Highlands
Black Rock Mountain State Park is about 45 minutes from Highlands. It has a few short trails and overlook points with wide mountain views, and the scenery opens up quickly. Most of the trails are under a mile, so you don’t have to work too hard to get a great overlook.
It’s an easy add-on if you want to explore a little beyond Highlands.
Whiteside Cove Road Waterfall Stops
Distance: Minimal walking
Driving along Whiteside Cove Road, you’ll find several small roadside waterfalls and scenic pull-offs. Not every outdoor experience needs to be a formal hike.
If you’re building a relaxed Highlands itinerary, combining short waterfall stops with one longer trail keeps the day balanced.
What to Know Before Hiking Near Highlands
Parking
Popular waterfalls like Dry Falls and Glen Falls have designated parking areas, but they fill up quickly on weekends. Early mornings are your best bet.
Cell Service
Cell service can be limited on forest roads and some trails. Download maps on AllTrails before you arrive.
Weather
Highlands sits at a higher elevation, which means it’s often cooler than surrounding areas. Bring a light layer, even in summer.
Road Conditions
Some trails require driving on gravel roads. Take your time and check conditions if it has recently rained.
Best Time of Year for Easy Hikes Near Highlands, NC
Spring:
Spring is one of the best times to hike near Highlands. The waterfalls are usually flowing strong from winter rain, and the temperatures stay comfortable. Trails feel fresh and green, and you’re not dealing with peak crowds yet.
Summer:
Highlands sits at a higher elevation, so it stays noticeably cooler than many surrounding towns. That makes summer hiking here feel manageable, even on warmer days. Waterfall hikes are especially nice this time of year.
Fall:
Fall is the most popular season in Highlands. The foliage draws a lot of visitors, especially in October. The views are beautiful, but parking lots fill up quickly, so earlier starts make a big difference.
Winter:
Winter is quieter overall. Some waterfalls partially freeze, which can be beautiful to see. Just be aware that trails can get slick, especially near water, and mornings tend to be colder than you expect.