Rufus Morgan Falls Trail Franklin NC
Discover the stunning 60-foot Rufus Morgan Falls via a scenic 1-mile loop trail in the Nantahala National Forest. Perfect for a rewarding short hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant wildflowers & fewer crowds
Rufus Morgan Falls Trail Franklin NC
Best Time
Vibrant wildflowers & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the stunning 60-foot Rufus Morgan Falls via a scenic 1-mile loop trail in the Nantahala National Forest. Perfect for a rewarding short hike.
"A beautiful waterfall and a rewarding short hike, perfect for a family adventure."
Go Counter-Clockwise
Start the loop to the right for a less steep initial climb and a more gradual ascent to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Roots & Rocks
The trail has many roots and rocks, so wear sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rufus Morgan Falls
End of the loop trail
A stunning 60-foot waterfall cascading through lush forest, the ultimate reward of this hike.
The Loop Trail
Nantahala National Forest
A scenic 1-mile loop with creek crossings and varied terrain, offering a rewarding nature experience.
Springtime Bloom
Along the trail
Discover vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and observe unique nature, especially after a rain shower.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Timing
Access & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go Counter-Clockwise
Start the loop to the right for a less steep initial climb and a more gradual ascent to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Roots & Rocks
The trail has many roots and rocks, so wear sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Gravel Road
The 2-mile gravel road to the parking lot is part of the adventure! :car:
Family-Friendly (with caveats)
Great for older kids, but toddlers might find the steeper sections challenging. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Counter-Clockwise
Start the loop to the right for a less steep initial climb and a more gradual ascent to the falls. :athletic_shoe:
Watch for Roots & Rocks
The trail has many roots and rocks, so wear sturdy footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Embrace the Gravel Road
The 2-mile gravel road to the parking lot is part of the adventure! :car:
Family-Friendly (with caveats)
Great for older kids, but toddlers might find the steeper sections challenging. :child:
Capture the Falls
Use a wide lens for close-up shots of the beautiful 60-foot waterfall. :camerawithflash:
Pack for the Weather
Be prepared for changing mountain weather, especially if hiking after rain. :umbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Rufus Morgan Falls for its beautiful 60-foot waterfall and the scenic 1-mile loop trail, noting it's a rewarding hike for its length. The accessibility via a gravel road and the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere are also highlighted. Some find the trail's roots and steeper sections challenging, particularly for very young children, and wish the hike was longer.
"Went for a hike and to this beautiful waterfall area with friends. Amazing views, there are some hills and rocks to step over but not a bad climb at all, our Maltese did well as well and it was a gorgeous day to enjoy it and get some fantastic photos!! 😁💓🐾"
Cindy G
"8/27/25. We had the place to ourselves! Easy hike but definitely a lot of roots. It is a loop, but I would start from the right as the left would be a steeper incline. You get to the lower fall and think that’s amazing until you look up!"
carol dishong
"The gravel road to the parking lot is about 2 miles off Wayah. The road continues after the parking lot but I promise, there's nothing down there.
The hike to the falls is steep, ok for adolescents but I wouldn't attempt with a toddler. Follow the blue trail markings until the blue splits, head to the right... you'll see and hear the main falls."
Chris B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is accessed via a 2-mile gravel road off Wayah Road. This road leads to the parking area. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for unpaved surfaces.
The gravel road is about 2 miles long and generally manageable for most vehicles, though it's unpaved.
While GPS can guide you to the general area, it's advisable to have directions handy as cell service can be spotty. Look for signs for Rufus Morgan Falls Trail.
Many visitors access it from Wayah Road. The drive itself is scenic, offering glimpses of the surrounding Nantahala National Forest.
No, public transportation is not available to reach the Rufus Morgan Falls Trail. A personal vehicle is necessary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Rufus Morgan Falls or hike the trail. It's a free public access area.
The trail is open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours.
No, parking at the trailhead is free of charge.
No, parking is first-come, first-served. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended.
No permits are required for day hiking on the Rufus Morgan Falls Trail.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail is approximately a 1-mile loop, making it a relatively short but rewarding hike.
It's generally considered easy to moderate. There are some steep sections and roots, especially if you start clockwise.
While many families enjoy it, the steeper parts and roots might be challenging for toddlers. Older children usually handle it well.
There are no restrooms available at the Rufus Morgan Falls trailhead. Plan accordingly.
Swimming is generally not recommended directly at the falls due to steep terrain and currents. However, some visitors enjoy playing in the water at the creek crossings.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Rufus Morgan Falls Trail, but they must be kept on a leash.
📸 📸 Photography
A wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the full 60-foot waterfall, especially for close-up shots.
Morning light can be beautiful, but the deep forest setting means it's often shaded. Consider visiting after rain for vibrant colors.
The main viewpoint is at the base of the upper falls. The trail itself offers glimpses of the creek and surrounding forest.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forests. Check current regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before flying.
Expect lush greenery, flowing water, and the impressive 60-foot waterfall. Wildflowers are abundant in spring.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the trail has roots and some steeper sections, it's generally considered suitable for older children. 🐶 Dog Owners
Your dog will likely enjoy exploring the natural surroundings and the creek crossings. Ensure your dog is comfortable with uneven terrain and potential encounters with other hikers or wildlife. Always practice responsible pet ownership by keeping your dog leashed and cleaning up after them.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting in the morning for softer light, though the dense forest canopy can create shade throughout the day. The trail itself, with its creek crossings and varied terrain, also offers picturesque scenes.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Naming of Rufus Morgan Falls
His legacy is preserved not only through the naming of this beautiful waterfall but also through the continued enjoyment of the trails he helped to establish and maintain. The Rufus Morgan Falls Trail itself is a testament to the natural beauty of the Nantahala National Forest, offering a relatively short but impactful experience for visitors.
+1Navigating the Rufus Morgan Falls Trail
Be prepared for a trail that is rich in natural features. You'll encounter numerous roots and rocks, making sturdy footwear essential. The trail also involves a couple of creek crossings, which are usually shallow enough to navigate without getting your feet too wet, especially outside of heavy rain periods. The final approach to the upper falls can be quite steep, culminating in a rewarding view.
While the loop is only a mile, the terrain and the desire to explore around the falls can extend your time spent here. Some visitors have extended their hikes by exploring the areas around the falls and playing in the water at the creek crossings.
Experiencing the Falls in Different Seasons
+1Summer brings lush greenery and a refreshing escape from the heat, though the falls might be less voluminous than in wetter seasons. Autumn paints the surrounding forest in stunning fall colors, creating a picturesque backdrop for the waterfall.
Winter presents a different kind of beauty, with the possibility of ice formations around the falls, though caution is advised due to slippery conditions. Regardless of the season, the trail provides a beautiful natural experience, with the falls being the undeniable highlight.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit