Wintergreen Falls
A serene 25-foot waterfall in DuPont State Forest, offering a lovely hike and a refreshing swimming hole.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and fewer crowds
Wintergreen Falls
Best Time
Enjoy solitude and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 25-foot waterfall in DuPont State Forest, offering a lovely hike and a refreshing swimming hole.
"Nice waterfall with a pretty easy trail, about a mile and a half walk from the parking lot."
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends, for a more peaceful experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trail is generally easy, but good footwear is recommended for the 1.5-mile hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wintergreen Falls
DuPont State Recreational Forest
A beautiful 25-foot cascade offering a refreshing swimming hole and a peaceful escape.
Scenic Hiking Trails
DuPont State Recreational Forest
Enjoy a moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back hike through lush forests to reach the falls.
Refreshing Swimming Hole
Base of Wintergreen Falls
Take a dip in the cool waters at the base of the falls for a perfect summer refreshment.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Tips for Wintergreen Falls
Best Time for a Refreshing Dip
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends, for a more peaceful experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trail is generally easy, but good footwear is recommended for the 1.5-mile hike.
💧 Bring Swim Gear
The base of the falls features a nice swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
🗺️ Trailhead Navigation
The trailhead might not be clearly marked; consider using the Guion Farm parking lot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Solitude
Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends, for a more peaceful experience.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Hiking Shoes
The trail is generally easy, but good footwear is recommended for the 1.5-mile hike.
💧 Bring Swim Gear
The base of the falls features a nice swimming hole, perfect for a refreshing dip.
🗺️ Trailhead Navigation
The trailhead might not be clearly marked; consider using the Guion Farm parking lot.
🚴 Watch for Cyclists
The trails are shared with cyclists, so be aware of your surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Wintergreen Falls to be a pleasant and accessible waterfall with a manageable hike. Many appreciate the opportunity for a refreshing dip in the swimming hole and the peaceful atmosphere, especially when visiting during quieter times. While not as grand as some other regional falls, it's considered a worthwhile stop for its natural beauty and ease of access.
"Nice waterfall with a pretty easy trail, about a mile and a half walk from the parking lot"
J.C. McCauley
"Hiked this back in early April on a pleasant morning. Started at the main visitor’s center parking lot at 8:15 AM. Was a 3.4 mile hike, which took about 1 hour to get to. Only met about 5 other hikers/bikers on the trail, but no one at the falls while I was there. A nice hike. You could start closer if parking at Guion Farm parking lot."
Brian Coburn
"Pretty hike. Trail head was not marked. I included a photo of where we parked. Trail guides said it was 1.5 miles to the fall, it was more like .6 to the top and .8 to the bottom."
Chelsey King- Shaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wintergreen Falls is located in DuPont State Recreational Forest. The most common access point for a shorter hike is the Guion Farm parking lot, leading to an approximately 1.5-mile trail. Alternatively, you can start from the main visitor center parking lot for a longer 3.4-mile hike.
Yes, parking is available at designated lots such as Guion Farm and the main visitor center. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.
Yes, the trails in DuPont State Recreational Forest are shared with cyclists. Be mindful of bikers on the path, especially during peak hours.
Absolutely! Wintergreen Falls is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Asheville, making it a perfect addition to a Western North Carolina day trip.
Some visitors have noted the trailhead isn't always clearly marked. Using GPS to navigate to the Guion Farm parking lot is a reliable method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter DuPont State Recreational Forest or to visit Wintergreen Falls. It's a free public park.
DuPont State Recreational Forest is generally open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
There is no entrance fee for DuPont State Recreational Forest. Access to the trails and waterfalls is free for all visitors.
Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservations for parking spots. Arriving early is the best strategy.
Standard park rules apply, including leash laws for pets and regulations against littering. Check the park's official guidelines for specific details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the Guion Farm parking lot is approximately 1.5 miles roundtrip. Starting from the main visitor center parking lot will make it about 3.4 miles roundtrip.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, with some gentle inclines. It's suitable for most fitness levels and families. +1
Yes, the base of Wintergreen Falls features a nice swimming hole that many visitors enjoy, especially during warmer months.
It can get moderately busy, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday is recommended for a less crowded experience.
Wintergreen Falls is part of DuPont State Recreational Forest, which is home to other popular waterfalls like Hooker Falls and Triple Falls.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning light offers softer, more diffused lighting, ideal for capturing the waterfall's beauty without harsh shadows. After heavy rains, the increased water flow also makes for dramatic shots. 
You can capture the main cascade, the surrounding forest, and the swimming hole at the base. Consider wide-angle lenses for the falls and telephoto for details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the official DuPont State Recreational Forest guidelines before flying a drone.
A sturdy tripod is helpful for long exposures to capture the water's silky effect. A wide-angle lens is great for the overall scene, and a polarizing filter can reduce glare on the water.
The main trail provides excellent views of the falls. You can also carefully explore the area around the base for different perspectives, but always prioritize safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main trail is family-friendly, always supervise children closely, especially near the water. The surrounding forest also provides opportunities for kids to explore and connect with nature. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
Bring a book to enjoy by the water, or simply meditate to the sounds of the falls. The relatively easy access and less dramatic scale compared to some other regional waterfalls can contribute to a more peaceful, less overwhelming atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and reconnecting with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring DuPont State Recreational Forest
The trails within DuPont are generally well-maintained, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. Visitors can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna, with opportunities for wildlife spotting. The forest's accessibility, being relatively close to Asheville and Hendersonville, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
When planning your visit, consider that DuPont State Recreational Forest can get busy, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure parking and enjoy a more serene experience. The park offers a variety of experiences, from the gentle cascade of Wintergreen Falls to the more dramatic drops of its neighboring falls, ensuring there's something for every nature lover.
The Allure of Western North Carolina Waterfalls
+1Many of these waterfalls, like Wintergreen, are located within protected state parks and forests, ensuring their preservation for future generations. The geological makeup of the Blue Ridge Mountains provides the perfect conditions for numerous watercourses to carve their way through the landscape, creating these picturesque falls. The experience of visiting these sites often involves hiking through lush forests, adding to the overall enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
Beyond Wintergreen Falls, exploring nearby cascades like Hooker Falls or the more powerful High Falls offers a comprehensive waterfall experience in the region. Each waterfall has its own character and accessibility, providing a diverse range of options for visitors. The consistent popularity of these natural attractions underscores the enduring appeal of the Blue Ridge Mountains and their abundant waterfalls.
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