Big Laurel Falls Franklin NC
Discover Big Laurel Falls, a picturesque 25-30ft waterfall in NC's Nantahala National Forest. Enjoy a short, scenic hike and a refreshing swim.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Big Laurel Falls Franklin NC
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Big Laurel Falls, a picturesque 25-30ft waterfall in NC's Nantahala National Forest. Enjoy a short, scenic hike and a refreshing swim.
"Lovely falls and nice mostly level hike. The Appalachian Trail crosses nearby."
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rooted and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for a comfortable and safe hike.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Roadside parking is limited. Aim for early morning to snag a spot and enjoy the falls with fewer people.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Big Laurel Falls
Nantahala National Forest
A beautiful 25-30 foot waterfall cascading over mossy rocks into a small swimming hole. Perfect for a refreshing dip or stunning photos.
Scenic Creek Trail
Trail to Big Laurel Falls
Enjoy the sights and sounds of cascades and moss-covered rocks along the mostly level, wooded path. A lovely walk even before reaching the main falls.
Proximity to Mooney Falls
Nantahala National Forest
Combine your visit with Mooney Falls, a smaller but charming waterfall just a short distance away. A great way to experience two natural wonders in one outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Parking & Trailhead
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rooted and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for a comfortable and safe hike. +1
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Roadside parking is limited. Aim for early morning to snag a spot and enjoy the falls with fewer people.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The trail and falls offer beautiful scenery. Bring your camera for great shots of cascades and the waterfall.
🏊♀️ Swimming Hole
The small pool at the base of Big Laurel Falls is suitable for a quick dip on a warm day.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Shoes
The trail is rooted and can be uneven. Sturdy footwear is a must for a comfortable and safe hike. +1
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Roadside parking is limited. Aim for early morning to snag a spot and enjoy the falls with fewer people.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The trail and falls offer beautiful scenery. Bring your camera for great shots of cascades and the waterfall.
🏊♀️ Swimming Hole
The small pool at the base of Big Laurel Falls is suitable for a quick dip on a warm day.
🗺️ Follow the Right Split
At the trailhead, take the path to the right after the initial bridge and sign to reach Big Laurel Falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Big Laurel Falls for its beautiful cascade and the enjoyable, relatively easy hike through scenic woods. The opportunity for a refreshing dip in the swimming hole is a popular feature. While parking is limited and the trail can be a bit rooted, most find it a worthwhile and picturesque stop.
"Great, short hike. The surface is quite rooted but otherwise pretty easy. Minimal elevation gain. Scenic creek along the way to the falls. Parking is just the side of the road and easily holds 5-6 vehicles. The trailhead is shared with another trail, but take the split to the right about 50' in. There's a bridge crossing and sign at the beginning of the hike."
Mark Franco
"Everything online says this is a half mile trail. Not true. It’s more like a whole mile in and a whole mile out. The trail isn’t paved or anything so wear appropriate footwear like hiking shoes. We didn’t make it to the falls but the scenery alone along the trail was beautiful. Great opportunities for nice photos. I will be back to finish the trail soon."
Lala
"This makes for a nice short hike. It is about 1/2 mile out to the waterfall, and another 1/2 mile back. Fairly good trail, with some steps up and down and a few places with some short wooden poles on the ground to step across some wet spots. Lots of laurel bushes. A nice small wooden bridge at the creek crossing at the beginning."
Colby Deitz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Laurel Falls is located in the Nantahala National Forest near Franklin, NC. Access is via a gravel road that is generally well-maintained. Parking is available on the side of the road near the trailhead.
The road leading to the trailhead is typically a gravel road. While usually well-maintained, it's advisable to check local conditions, especially after heavy rain.
The closest town to Big Laurel Falls is Franklin, North Carolina. It's a popular base for exploring the surrounding Nantahala National Forest.
While GPS can get you close, it's helpful to have a general understanding of the area. Look for signs for Standing Indian Campground as a nearby landmark.
Public transportation is not readily available to Big Laurel Falls. A personal vehicle is necessary to reach this natural attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit Big Laurel Falls. It is located within the Nantahala National Forest and is freely accessible.
Big Laurel Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours.
Generally, there is no entrance fee for the Nantahala National Forest itself. However, some specific developed recreation areas within the forest might have day-use fees. Big Laurel Falls does not have a fee.
No, you cannot reserve a spot at Big Laurel Falls as it is a natural attraction with roadside parking. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
No specific permits are required for the short hike to Big Laurel Falls. Standard regulations for the Nantahala National Forest apply.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Big Laurel Falls is approximately 1 mile round trip, taking about 15-30 minutes depending on your pace. +1
The trail is considered easy to moderate. It has minimal elevation gain but can be rooted and uneven, requiring careful footing.
Yes, there is a small swimming hole at the base of Big Laurel Falls where visitors can take a dip on warm days.
There are no restrooms directly at the Big Laurel Falls trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly and use facilities in Franklin, NC, before or after their visit.
Due to the rooted and uneven terrain, the trail to Big Laurel Falls is not considered stroller or wheelchair accessible.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography. Weekdays are best to avoid crowds and get unobstructed shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and surrounding scenery. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures in lower light.
Absolutely! The trail itself features scenic creek views, cascades, and mossy rocks, offering plenty of picturesque moments.
Drone usage is subject to National Forest regulations. Check current FAA and US Forest Service guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
The main cascade of the falls, the moss-covered rocks, and the small swimming hole are prime photography locations. The bridge at the start of the trail also offers a nice perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities at the trailhead. Emphasize staying on the trail and respecting the natural environment. The scenic creek along the path also provides opportunities for kids to observe nature. Arriving early is key to avoid crowds and ensure parking, making the overall experience more relaxed for families.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best lighting. Weekdays are highly recommended to avoid crowds and capture unobstructed shots. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the falls and the broader landscape, and a tripod can be beneficial for longer exposures, especially in shaded areas.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Day-Trippers
Combine this with a visit to nearby Mooney Falls or explore the charming town of Franklin for a complete day trip. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be aware of the limited parking. It's a fantastic spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the natural beauty of the Nantahala National Forest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nantahala National Forest
+1Visitors often combine a trip to Big Laurel Falls with other nearby attractions, such as Mooney Falls or exploring the scenic drives within the forest. The forest offers a variety of hiking trails, from short, easy walks like the one to Big Laurel Falls to more challenging backcountry treks. It's a popular destination for hikers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
Remember that cell service can be spotty in the Nantahala National Forest, so it's wise to download offline maps and inform someone of your hiking plans. Respecting the natural environment by staying on marked trails and packing out all trash is crucial for preserving this beautiful area for future visitors.
The Hike to Big Laurel Falls: What to Expect
Along the way, the trail follows a scenic creek, offering delightful views of smaller cascades and moss-covered rocks. There's a charming wooden bridge crossing at the beginning of the hike, adding to the picturesque experience. Some sections may have short wooden poles or logs to step over, particularly in wetter areas. Despite the minor challenges, the walk is generally considered pleasant and rewarding, with minimal elevation gain.
Parking is limited to the shoulder of the road, typically accommodating about 5-6 vehicles. The trailhead is shared, so pay attention to the split about 50 feet in, taking the path to the right. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a parking spot and enjoy the falls with fewer people.
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