Slick Rock Falls
A serene 35-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, known for its smooth, slick rocks and peaceful ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For maximum water flow
Slick Rock Falls
Best Time
For maximum water flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 35-foot waterfall in Pisgah National Forest, known for its smooth, slick rocks and peaceful ambiance.
"A beautiful little waterfall off the beaten path, easy to get to and so peaceful."
🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead
Headwaters Road (FR-475B) is unpaved. Drive slowly and consider a vehicle with higher clearance.
⚠️ Watch Your Step!
The rocks around the falls are very slippery, hence the name. Wear appropriate footwear!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Cascade
Upper section of the falls
A beautiful 35-foot waterfall cascading over slick rocks into a pool below.
Lower Slick Rock Falls
Downstream from the main falls
A less-visited, scenic waterfall often partially obscured by trees, offering a more secluded experience.
Slippery Rock Scramble
Around the base of the falls
Carefully explore the slick rocks around the falls, but be mindful of the name's warning!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Slick Rock Falls
Best Viewing Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead
Headwaters Road (FR-475B) is unpaved. Drive slowly and consider a vehicle with higher clearance.
⚠️ Watch Your Step!
The rocks around the falls are very slippery, hence the name. Wear appropriate footwear!
💧 Best After Rain
For the most impressive flow, visit after a good rainfall.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera! The scenery is stunning, especially with good water flow.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bumpy Road Ahead
Headwaters Road (FR-475B) is unpaved. Drive slowly and consider a vehicle with higher clearance.
⚠️ Watch Your Step!
The rocks around the falls are very slippery, hence the name. Wear appropriate footwear!
💧 Best After Rain
For the most impressive flow, visit after a good rainfall.
📸 Capture the Beauty
Bring your camera! The scenery is stunning, especially with good water flow.
🌲 Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with other Pisgah National Forest waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Slick Rock Falls for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially after a good rain. The easy access and less crowded nature compared to other local falls are significant draws. Some note the road can be bumpy and caution is needed on the slippery rocks.
"I spent the morning driving Headwaters Road or FS475. An old Forest Service gravel road in Pisgah National Forest, in Brevard, NC. Slick Rock Waterfall is about a mile up on the right once you turn onto Headwaters Road. It's set back about 40 or 50 feet from the road. A beautiful little waterfall. I would imagine that after a big rain that you is spectacular to see.
There is a beautiful camping area across the road from the waterfall."
David Shuler
"Beautiful waterfall, off the beaten path. Easy hike from the parking area, watch it has slippery rocks."
Gator Bait Adventure Tours
"This is a beautiful little waterfall off the beaten path. It’s off of 475b, Headwaters Rd., which is an unpaved forestry road. The waterfall is easy to get to once you’ve found the trailhead, and there is parking large enough for 5-6 cars."
Elizabeth “Liz” Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Slick Rock Falls is located in Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard, NC. Take Headwaters Road (FR-475B), an unpaved forestry road, for about a mile. Parking is available on the right side.
Headwaters Road is a gravel road that can be bumpy. While many cars can navigate it slowly, a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended for a smoother ride.
Once you turn onto Headwaters Road, the falls are about a mile up on the right. You can often hear the waterfall from the parking area.
Yes, Pisgah National Forest is home to many beautiful waterfalls. Looking Glass Falls, Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls are popular nearby options.
Yes, Slick Rock Falls is accessible in winter. The trees are bare, which can offer better views of the falls, especially if there's ice.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Slick Rock Falls is located within Pisgah National Forest and does not require an entrance fee or ticket. It's a natural attraction accessible to all.
Slick Rock Falls is a natural attraction and is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
Yes, there is a parking area for Slick Rock Falls that can accommodate about 5-6 cars. It's located just off Headwaters Road.
Slick Rock Falls is generally safe, but caution is advised due to slippery rocks and the potential for flash flooding after heavy rain. Always be aware of your surroundings.
While the pool at the base of the falls is deep enough for swimming, the rocks are extremely slippery. Swimming is at your own risk. Lifeguards are present at the more famous Sliding Rock nearby during peak season.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike from the parking area to Slick Rock Falls is very short, only a couple of hundred feet. It's an easy walk, but the terrain around the falls is rocky and can be slippery.
There are no dedicated restrooms at Slick Rock Falls itself. Visitors typically use facilities at nearby Pisgah Wildlife Center and Fish Hatchery or plan accordingly.
Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear suitable for hiking on wet and rocky surfaces. Quick-drying clothing is also a good idea if you plan to get close to the water.
Yes, in low water conditions, it's possible to scramble around and even go behind the waterfall. However, extreme caution is advised due to the slippery nature of the rocks.
Slick Rock Falls is generally less crowded than more famous nearby attractions like Sliding Rock. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can ensure a more peaceful experience.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, especially with the surrounding forest. Visiting after rain will provide dramatic water flow for dynamic shots. 
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the falls and the surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with longer exposures to smooth out the water, but be mindful of the wet environment.
Experiment with different angles, including low shots near the water or from behind the falls if conditions permit. Capturing the texture of the slick rocks can add interest.
The main cascade offers the most iconic view. For a different perspective, explore the path to the lower falls or find vantage points from the surrounding rocks.
Avoid shooting in harsh midday sun, which can wash out details. Also, be extremely careful not to drop your camera or phone on the slippery rocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Slick Rock Falls itself isn't a swimming hole with lifeguards like the nearby Sliding Rock, the peaceful atmosphere can be a great alternative for families seeking a less crowded experience. Ensure children wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and stay within safe viewing distances from the water's edge.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the biodiversity of the surrounding forest and the unique geological formations of the falls. The opportunity to see a less-crowded waterfall and potentially explore the lower falls adds to the appeal. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in to preserve this natural area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Pisgah National Forest Waterfalls
When planning your waterfall tour, consider the trail difficulty and distance for each. Some, like Looking Glass Falls, are just a short walk from the parking lot, while others, like Triple Falls and High Falls, involve longer hikes with elevation changes. The best time to visit many of these waterfalls is after a good rain to witness their full power, but be aware that this also increases the slipperiness of the surrounding rocks. Always check local conditions and be prepared for changing weather in the mountains.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Pisgah National Forest offers numerous hiking trails that lead to hidden cascades and breathtaking vistas. The Blue Ridge Parkway also provides scenic overlooks and access points to various trailheads. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of these areas for future visitors.
The Geology and Naming of Slick Rock Falls
The falls themselves are a series of drops, with the main cascade being around 35 feet. The water originates from Slick Rock Creek, a tributary that winds through the dense forest before plunging over the rock formations. The surrounding hardwood forest provides a lush green backdrop in warmer months and a stunning display of color in the fall. The area's geology contributes to its unique character, offering a raw, natural beauty that appeals to hikers and nature lovers.
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