Secret Falls (Big Creek Falls)
A hidden gem waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole, accessible via a scenic hike with creek crossings and steps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer people, more peaceful
Secret Falls (Big Creek Falls)
Best Time
Fewer people, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole, accessible via a scenic hike with creek crossings and steps.
"It's a great secret place! It’s very long to drive and walk but once you get there it’s worth it!"
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Use offline maps to navigate the forest road and trail.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be wet and has creek crossings. Good grip is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secret Falls
End of the trail
A beautiful, powerful waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole below. Worth the hike!
Creek Crossings
Along the trail
Navigate charming creek crossings, some with log bridges or natural footholds.
Waterfall Steps
Near the falls
A steep but rewarding descent via numerous steps to reach the base of the falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Access
Timing & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Use offline maps to navigate the forest road and trail. +1
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be wet and has creek crossings. Good grip is essential. +1
🏊♀️ Bring a Swimsuit
The swimming hole at the base of the falls is a major draw in warmer weather.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but be prepared for creek crossings and steps.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Use offline maps to navigate the forest road and trail. +1
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be wet and has creek crossings. Good grip is essential. +1
🏊♀️ Bring a Swimsuit
The swimming hole at the base of the falls is a major draw in warmer weather.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, but be prepared for creek crossings and steps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Secret Falls for its beauty and refreshing swimming hole, calling it a worthwhile destination despite the drive. The hike is generally easy, though the steps at the end and creek crossings require some effort. Some note the lack of signage and cell service, emphasizing the need for preparation. +1
"We hiked with our dog. We went late in the day so there were not many people on the trail. The trail was a little wet in places but there were ways around it. A couple of creek crossings to make. The hike was relatively easy until the end. Be prepared for lots of steps down to the falls. There was a nice bench halfway down if needed. The waterfall was very pretty and had a lot of water flowing. Below the main pool area there is another cascade down into a narrow area. You can overlook it but we didn't see a trail down."
Katherine Sitler
"The trail for Secret Falls sits off a dirt forest road near Highlands, NC. It's mostly downhill to get to the falls, so uphill on the way back. It's never too steep or difficult. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow. There are quite a few steps leading down to the falls. There are several nice spots to sit and relax at the waterfall."
Rebecca Berry
"Nice waterfall, easy down and back hike. Cross a few streams, one with a log "balance beam" bridge and the other with a couple of foot holds. Would highly recommend for an easy partial day hike."
D D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Secret Falls is located off a dirt forest road near Highlands, NC. Service is spotty, so download offline maps. Look for a small 2-3 car parking area. Avoid continuing past the bridge as the road deteriorates. +1
The road leading to the trailhead is a dirt forest road. While the initial part is manageable, it can deteriorate into a jeep trail further on.
A 4x4 is likely not necessary for the main trail access, but be cautious on the dirt forest road, especially after rain.
According to some visitors, there are no clear signs marking the trail, making it a true 'secret' spot. Offline maps are crucial.
The drive can be long, and the exact time depends on your starting point and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee mentioned for Secret Falls. It's a natural attraction accessed via a public forest road.
As a natural attraction, Secret Falls does not have set operating hours. It's accessible during daylight.
No advance booking is required for Secret Falls. It's a hike-in destination.
The hike is generally easy, but the final descent involves many steps, and creek crossings require some agility. Suitable for most ages, but consider mobility. +1
Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, but they must be leashed and well-behaved. Be mindful of creek crossings and steps.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is described as relatively easy, mostly downhill on the way to the falls and uphill on the return. The exact distance isn't specified but is manageable for a partial day hike. +1
The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with some wet spots and creek crossings. There are many steps leading down to the falls. +1
Yes, there is a swimming hole at the base of the falls that is popular and refreshing, especially in warmer months.
Restroom facilities are not mentioned for Secret Falls. It's advisable to use facilities before you go.
Bring water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, a swimsuit if you plan to swim, and a towel. Offline maps are essential. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the main waterfall from various angles, the cascading lower section, and the charming creek crossings. The steps leading down also offer unique perspectives.
Drone usage regulations can vary. Always check local rules and be mindful of other visitors. The surrounding forest and falls offer scenic aerial views.
Morning light can be beautiful, but late afternoon might offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the 'secret' feel.
Yes, you can get quite close to the main falls and the swimming area. Be cautious of slippery rocks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be aware of the numerous steps leading down to the waterfall; a bench halfway offers a resting spot. If visiting in warmer weather, the swimming hole is a huge hit with kids. Ensure everyone has sturdy shoes and download offline maps as service is unreliable.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be prepared for your dog to navigate the creek crossings and the steps down to the falls. Ensure they have good traction on their paws, especially if the trail is wet. It's a great way to let your dog enjoy the outdoors and cool off in the water if conditions permit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours for softer light. The swimming hole can add a dynamic element to your photos, especially on a warm day. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the falls and the environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to Secret Falls
The final approach to the waterfall involves a significant number of steps, which can be a moderate challenge for some. A bench is available halfway down these steps, offering a place to rest if needed. Despite these minor challenges, the trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, making the effort worthwhile for the stunning payoff at the end.
Key takeaway: The hike is manageable for most, but the steps and creek crossings add an element of adventure. Downloading offline maps is crucial due to lack of cell service.
Experiencing the Waterfall and Swimming Hole
Beyond the main falls, there's a secondary cascade that flows into a narrower area downstream. While this lower section is visible, a trail down to it is not readily apparent, suggesting it's more of an overlook. The area around the falls offers several pleasant spots to sit, relax, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Pro-tip: If visiting during the warmer season, don't forget your swimsuit and towel to fully enjoy the swimming experience.
Navigating the 'Secret' Access
Visitors report that there are no prominent signs marking the trail, adding to its hidden gem status. Upon reaching the correct vicinity, a small parking area for 2-3 cars is the indicator that you're in the right spot. It's important to note that the road can deteriorate significantly past a small bridge, becoming more of a jeep trail, so sticking to the main access point is advised.
Community Wisdom: Travelers emphasize that the lack of signage and spotty service means relying on GPS and offline maps is key to a successful and stress-free visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit