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Mingo Falls is a must see! The fall is tall and gorgeous. The parking lot is a bit small. I think there was a restroom at the trail head. There are lots of steps to climb. The steps are in good repair and could be done by a senior or child. The trail beyond the steps is more rocky and unstable. Though...it can be navigated by a senior. The overall length of the hike isn't bad nor too strenuous.
Pictures do not do this place justice. If you chose to venture past the local high school to the edge of town and up the moderately steep climb, you'll be blessed with one beauty of a scenic waterfall. The falls reveal themselves after a short 5-7-minute hike up steps and a small path. They are large, cooling, and majestic. A couple whom I met while up there said Mingo was the best waterfall they had seen in the area. The water was very clear and there were many people playing in the water and climbing the falls. Mingo falls is a free attraction which is easy to get to and there was ample parking at the base of the hike. The hike was about half a mile and only moderate in its difficulty. If you are not in shape, just take it slow and you should be fine in fact, I saw a couple tourist with cast and boots attempting the climb! Mingo falls offers tranquil views of a breathtaking waterfall as well free family fun!
This is a really beautiful waterfall. I was excited to find this spot as I really wanted to go to a waterfall and soak up some fresh water energy but my back was sore and I was out of shape. The hike to Mingo Falls is short and has a gorgeous end point. Located in Cherokee, this is a great place to visit if you need to balance out your day when you visit the casino and experience all of the bright lights and loud noises. Mingo Falls has a small parking lot with a narrow dirt road leading to it. Be careful as you go through this road as it is difficult to have two vehicles passing, so you really have to be alert. Once to the parking lot, you immediately hike up a set of stairs along the mountain side. I believe I read that it is around 160 steps. Straight upward. This is the exercise portion of the experience. Strenuous, yes, but short. Once you're to the top of the stairs, it's a straight shot to the falls. I believe the path is only 1/2 mile. At the top is the lovely waterfall. It is best viewed from the bridge at the base of the falls, but I did see some people wandering up the hillside a bit more to see the falls closer. This is where you need to stop, breathe, and listen to the soothing sound of the water pounding against the rocks of the mountain and joining the river. My favorite sound in the world.
It has been over 8.5 years since my last visit to Mingo Falls. But just like a fine wine, it has simply gotten better with time. To my eye, Mingo Falls looks like a waterfall you might find in Hawaii or some exotic tropical location. It has a unique volcanic sort of look to it. Some work appears to have been done to make the view of the falls more pleasant because it felt a lot more open & airy than I remember from my previous visit! Now all it needs is an outdoor escalator option to bypass the 161 steps required to reach the viewing platform! LOL As I said in my first review, I've seen many great waterfalls in the Tennessee, Carolina & North Georgia mountains. Mingo ranks high as one of the tallest in height and shortest in distance to reach. Despite the intimidating staircase, the steps actually make it even more accessible to those who would have a much harder time traversing the steep terrain without them! And BONUS, there are amenities such as restrooms, paved parking and an uncomplicated drive. So many waterfalls require tricky maneuvering on narrow gravel roads to reach, but not Mingo! FINAL THOUGHTS Even if you are only passing through Cherokee, NC, it would be a crime not to take a few moments to visit Mingo Falls. Its beauty is worth the effort! 2020 / 76
This is a wonderful hike especially during the fall. We followed the signs as Apple Maps tried to take us in the back narrow road so the signs pointing us in the better direction on the road was a better option. The hike itself is very short and doable for all ages as long as stairs and walking over roots aren't an issue. Parking was limited, but plenty of places to park along the side of the road. They also have port-a-potties in the parking area. These falls are absolutely stunning and well worth the short venture up to see them. It was decently crowded on Tuesday at 1pm in October, but not so bad it was uncomfortable. We were able to get plenty of photos and stand on the viewing platform at a safe distance from others.
A nice set of falls that requires a little hike to get to but offers a nice unique view. This is not in the Rocky Mountain National Park. The road that you drive to arrive at this location goes by a school so please drive the speed limit. At the time that I visited this site, my navigation app did not have the roads within a mile of the falls so we had to pay attention to the signs. The good thing is that there are several signs that lead you to the site. Parking is limited to about 15 parking spots directly in front of the steps. There seems to be an old campground that you may be able to park in but I did not want to take a chance. The path continues along the mountain for another few hundred yards to some rock steps and a bridge that spans the river. There is a bench at the top that will allow people to rest. The falls are very unique and beautiful with several streams instead of one large stream coming down the mountain. It is a very nice site and different from other falls that we saw on our trip. I would recommend it for visitors to the area.
Just outside Cherokee, NC with signage that's of some help. Adequate parking lot. Well placed stairs the majority of the way. Also there's a few places to stop and rest. About .4 miles to the observation deck. We found it to be well worth the climb. An encouraging hiker has written words of encouragement that will inspire you as you make your upward journey. We enjoyed the hike and are glad we made the effort to go and observe.
The roads in this area are confusing and a tad sketch, and though this was on my to-do list I ended up here somewhat unintentionally because the Blue Ridge Parkway was not as easy to get on as I'd thought (and I wouldn't count on cell service in this area; I wish I'd had maps downloaded). Once you get to the parking lot, there is a significant set of stairs, but multiple returning parties headed down those stairs promised me the climb would be worth it, and they had a point. The waterfall is dazzling, with the water being split into innumerable rivulets that slowly tumble down over the vegetation growing into the rock wall. The pictures don't do it justice. Definitely worth a detour. read more
Mingo Falls is a must see! The fall is tall and gorgeous. The parking lot is a bit small. I think there was a restroom at the trail head. There are lots of steps to climb. The steps are in good repair and could be done by a senior or child. The trail beyond the steps is more rocky and unstable. Though...it can be navigated by a senior. The overall length of the hike isn't bad nor too strenuous. read more
Pictures do not do this place justice. If you chose to venture past the local high school to the edge of town and up the moderately steep climb, you'll be blessed with one beauty of a scenic waterfall. The falls reveal themselves after a short 5-7-minute hike up steps and a small path. They are large, cooling, and majestic. A couple whom I met while up there said Mingo was the best waterfall they had seen in the area. The water was very clear and there were many people playing in the water and climbing the falls. Mingo falls is a free attraction which is easy to get to and there was ample parking at the base of the hike. The hike was about half a mile and only moderate in its difficulty. If you are not in shape, just take it slow and you should be fine in fact, I saw a couple tourist with cast and boots attempting the climb! Mingo falls offers tranquil views of a breathtaking waterfall as well free family fun! read more
This is a really beautiful waterfall. I was excited to find this spot as I really wanted to go to a waterfall and soak up some fresh water energy but my back was sore and I was out of shape. The hike to Mingo Falls is short and has a gorgeous end point. Located in Cherokee, this is a great place to visit if you need to balance out your day when you visit the casino and experience all of the bright lights and loud noises. Mingo Falls has a small parking lot with a narrow dirt road leading to it. Be careful as you go through this road as it is difficult to have two vehicles passing, so you really have to be alert. Once to the parking lot, you immediately hike up a set of stairs along the mountain side. I believe I read that it is around 160 steps. Straight upward. This is the exercise portion of the experience. Strenuous, yes, but short. Once you're to the top of the stairs, it's a straight shot to the falls. I believe the path is only 1/2 mile. At the top is the lovely waterfall. It is best viewed from the bridge at the base of the falls, but I did see some people wandering up the hillside a bit more to see the falls closer. This is where you need to stop, breathe, and listen to the soothing sound of the water pounding against the rocks of the mountain and joining the river. My favorite sound in the world. read more
6 years ago
It has been over 8.5 years since my last visit to Mingo Falls. But just like a fine wine, it has simply gotten better with time. To my eye, Mingo Falls looks like a waterfall you might find in Hawaii or some exotic tropical location. It has a unique volcanic sort of look to it. Some work appears to have been done to make the view of the falls more pleasant because it felt a lot more open & airy than I remember from my previous visit! Now all it needs is an outdoor escalator option to bypass the 161 steps required to reach the viewing platform! LOL As I said in my first review, I've seen many great waterfalls in the Tennessee, Carolina & North Georgia mountains. Mingo ranks high as one of the tallest in height and shortest in distance to reach. Despite the intimidating staircase, the steps actually make it even more accessible to those who would have a much harder time traversing the steep terrain without them! And BONUS, there are amenities such as restrooms, paved parking and an uncomplicated drive. So many waterfalls require tricky maneuvering on narrow gravel roads to reach, but not Mingo! FINAL THOUGHTS Even if you are only passing through Cherokee, NC, it would be a crime not to take a few moments to visit Mingo Falls. Its beauty is worth the effort! 2020 / 76 read more
This is a wonderful hike especially during the fall. We followed the signs as Apple Maps tried to take us in the back narrow road so the signs pointing us in the better direction on the road was a better option. The hike itself is very short and doable for all ages as long as stairs and walking over roots aren't an issue. Parking was limited, but plenty of places to park along the side of the road. They also have port-a-potties in the parking area. These falls are absolutely stunning and well worth the short venture up to see them. It was decently crowded on Tuesday at 1pm in October, but not so bad it was uncomfortable. We were able to get plenty of photos and stand on the viewing platform at a safe distance from others. read more
3 years ago
Mannnnnn this place is nothing short of amazing even if I didn't quite make it to the top - I was almost there but the scenery was still awesome! read more
3 years ago
A nice set of falls that requires a little hike to get to but offers a nice unique view. This is not in the Rocky Mountain National Park. The road that you drive to arrive at this location goes by a school so please drive the speed limit. At the time that I visited this site, my navigation app did not have the roads within a mile of the falls so we had to pay attention to the signs. The good thing is that there are several signs that lead you to the site. Parking is limited to about 15 parking spots directly in front of the steps. There seems to be an old campground that you may be able to park in but I did not want to take a chance. The path continues along the mountain for another few hundred yards to some rock steps and a bridge that spans the river. There is a bench at the top that will allow people to rest. The falls are very unique and beautiful with several streams instead of one large stream coming down the mountain. It is a very nice site and different from other falls that we saw on our trip. I would recommend it for visitors to the area. read more
4 years ago
Absolutely breathtaking waterfall. The climb up the stairs was manageable. It's a short walk so it doesn't take long to visit and well worth it!! read more
Mingo Falls in Cherokee North Carolina is a 120 foot high waterfall and is amongst the tallest in the southern Appalachians. We climbed up stairs the a short hike to the viewing. It was a small area a too many people during this time of Covid but with our masks on we took photo and left. read more
4 years ago
Mingo falls was so nice. I felt like I was in the Dominican Republic! About a 15 min winding road from the Harrahs casino. Took us away from the slots and into nature. About 100 steps to get to the top. Just take your time and worth the view! Definitely recommend read more
Just outside Cherokee, NC with signage that's of some help. Adequate parking lot. Well placed stairs the majority of the way. Also there's a few places to stop and rest. About .4 miles to the observation deck. We found it to be well worth the climb. An encouraging hiker has written words of encouragement that will inspire you as you make your upward journey. We enjoyed the hike and are glad we made the effort to go and observe. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
5 years ago
My favorite waterfall when visiting the area in late Spring 2021. The stairs (160) are not so bad. Recovering from a fractured hip and damaged knee and did fine. Just take it at your own pace! read more
6 years ago
Mingo Falls is a must-see waterfall in Cherokee, NC! It is easy to drive to and there is a parking area that offers restrooms. The entire hike is stairs-over 150 of them. But once you climb them all, a beautiful view is waiting for you. I was shocked at how tall this waterfall is. Pictures honestly don't do it justice. At the top there is a small bridge where you can view the waterfall and snap some photos. You will probably spend about 30 minutes total here, so this is a great waterfall hike to do in addition to others in the same day. Plus the hike down felt a lot easier than the hike up! Climb the stairs! It's worth it! read more
Mingo Falls is an easily accessible and impressive cascade in the Cherokee National Forest area of NC. We weren't planning on visiting here, but while stopped at Sacco Falls (about 30 minutes away), another hiker recommended we go to Mingo as well. The waterfall is accessed via a set of stairs and a short uphill hike. It can get rather crowded, so be sure to go early if you want photos that don't have a lot of other people in them. The waterfall is quite high and the bridge you stand on for viewing is very close to the base. There is usually another access trail that lets you get a little closer, but it was closed during our visit. read more
5 years ago
Definitely glad we decided to go see Mingo Falls. It can be a little challenging to find, and there is limited parking. The trail isn't very long, but there are about 160 stairs and some uneven terrain. My 3 young kids (all under 8) handled it fine though. Totally worth it and pictures don't tell enough of how beautiful this waterfall is. read more
5 years ago
Beautiful quick hike. You'll spend more time gazing at the falls than you do walking up the stairs! read more
7 years ago
Wow! Who doesn't love nature? I was so relieved to see that we didn't have to trek for 2 miles to see this fall. I didn't know what to expect, but I certainly didn't expect to see this fall so close to us. We walked up about 120 steps and was greeted with the sound of the water splashing on the rocks. My kids was so delighted to see this fall up close and personal. read more
6 years ago
One of the most beautiful falls in the Smoky Mountains (which says a lot). A short drive from Cherokee, the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Ocanaluftee Visitor Center. Our cell reception was spotty around the Smokies, but there are a number of signs and you can get great directions from the rangers at the Visitor Center also. Small dirt parking lot by a campground. The trailhead starts immediately in the parking lot, across from where you enter. The walk to the falls (it's so short, you really can't call it a hike) is less than a half mile, up a steep set of 160 well maintained wooden stairs and a short rocky path. Do not be scared off by the number of stairs, this should be easily doable for anyone in reasonably good shape. So worth it. A wooden bridge allows you to come very close to a tall, beautiful waterfall. We visited on a weekend in July, and it was quite busy with little social distancing. If that concerns you, I would go during the week or in the early morning. Highly recommend. read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
I can tell you, this place is breath taken, the view and the hike, but when you get up there, all the hike is worthy!! read more
6 years ago
Great place! The view was awesome and worth the short hike up the steps. Not wheelchair friendly. It's about 150 steps and then a rocky path to the top. read more
4 years ago
Easy, beautiful trail. Once you climb the steps, easy shoot right to the falls! Gorgeous views and very clean. We went on a Tuesday morning and we were the only ones walking the path. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to Mingo Falls with portable toilets, and there is a clear sign indicating the beginning of the trail. read more
12 years ago
7 years ago
What a great short, but somewhat strenuous, hike to a beautiful waterfall! There are a lot of stairs at the beginning but once you reach the top, it's a pretty simple hike. read more
6 years ago
One of the most beautiful falls I have ever seen! If you're staying in TN make sure to visit Cherokee too! read more
10 years ago
Very nice waterfall, the distance wasn't too bad even with the staircase. Definitely worth the effort if your in Cherokee read more
6 years ago
Very steep stairs but fairly short hike to the most amazing waterfall! Well worth the hike. read more
9 years ago
Beautiful waterfall! I highly recommend if you are in the area. It's an easy hike for such a great view! (My 3 year old had no problems, but some parts of the trail are wet, so I held her hand the whole time.) There is convenient parking right below the trail. Stairs are 90% of the hike (they are pretty steep, but there is a bench at the top if you need a rest ;) ) The best part is that there is a bridge that crosses right in front of the waterfall for great photo opportunities! Go see Mingo Falls! read more
6 years ago
Small parking lot but other then that the view was def worth the 170 steps up the mountain read more
7 years ago
9 years ago
9 years ago
Pretty falls went up for a long long way! A lot of steps and a lot of graffiti but pretty! read more
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Eastern Cherokee Reservation
Cherokee, NC 28719
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(828) 497-9195
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Mingo Falls - hiking - Updated June 2026
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