Blue Ridge Parkway to the Waterfalls.
THE NATION'S MOST SCENIC HIGHWAY IS MINUTES AWAY FROM THE HOLIDAY INN BILTMORE EAST
Do you love scenic drives and waterfalls? Then you will love this full or half day outing we have put together just for you. It is divided into three parts allowing you the option to choose to do all or just part of the trip. We have made suggestions to help you decide.
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
For a wonderful daytime outing we suggest entering the parkway just down the road from the hotel and heading south. You will experience a lovely one hour scenic drive as you head towards US-276 South located at milepost 412. U.S. 276 takes you to many stunning waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest.
2. Pisgah National Forest
The first is a waterfall slide called Sliding Rock. You will find the Sliding Rock entrance approximately 8 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway on U.S. 276. Cool off and have some fun as you slip and slid into an icy pool. Changing rooms and restrooms are available so bring along some dry clothes. There are life guards on duty and a $2 per person charge. What a deal!
SLIDING ROCK IS A GREAT WAY TO COOL OFF ON A HOT SUMMER DAY!
More Waterfalls and Hiking Trails
Continue south on U.S. 276 to Moore Cove Falls. Access to this 50-foot tall waterfall is via a small parking area by a stone bridge. You will find the parking lot approximately 8.2 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway on U.S. 276. There are no signs on the highway for Moore Cove Falls, but there is an information board by the parking lot so you will know you are in the right spot. This is a 3/4 mile hike. 1.5 miles round trip. It is a beautiful walk and a relatively easy hike. If you intend to go to the Dupont Forest waterfalls, you may want to skip this hike. Also, it is only at its best when there has been sufficient rainfall. This is a family and pet friendly hike with a waterfall that you can walk behind. If it is not rushing too heavily, you can take a natural shower here.
Looking Glass Falls can be seen from the road and is 60 feet tall. It is very easy to access and a fun swimming hole. Lots of couple choose to get married at Looking Glass Falls. The Holiday Inn Biltmore East would be happy to accommodate your friends and family for a waterfall wedding. We are a small wedding venue with a newly remodeled Banquet Room that is perfect for receptions and rehearsal dinners.
On colder days, and in the winter, we suggest that you make Looking Glass Falls your first stop. It is a great place to get out of the car and stretch your legs. Take the time to walk down the stairs to the base of this magnificent waterfall.
If you are done for the day travel down to 280, turn left and grab I-26 back to the hotel. If you are just getting started continue on to:
3. Dupont State Forest
The 20 mile drive from Looking Glass Falls to Dupont takes 40 minutes. Stop at the bottom of the hill for ice cream. Use the following address for Dupont in your GPS:
1300 Staton Road, Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
There are 3 main falls to see in Dupont State Forest. Hooker Falls, at the bottom, Triple Falls in the middle and High Falls at, yes, you guessed it, at the top. Locals tend to start at the bottom and work their way up as it is easier to come down the hill after all the hiking, swimming and fun in the sun. Bring snacks and drinking water!
HIGH FALLS DUPONT STATE FOREST
TRIPLE FALLS DUPONT STATE FOREST
HOOKER FALLS DUPONT STATE FOREST
This full day excursion is not for the faint of heart. You will likely want to come home via I-26 and grab a nap before dinner.
A Note from the Holiday Inn Biltmore East
We are so excited to have you as our guest at the Holiday Inn Biltmore East. When you get back to the hotel let us know how your day went. Our front desk personnel and our restaurant staff look forward to seeing you. We are available to answer your questions and make recommendations. See you Soon!
