Soco Falls is absolutely worth the stop if you're driving through the area. The waterfall is beautiful, and the photos honestly don't do it justice. That said... don't let the short hike fool you! The walk down isn't bad--it's the climb back up that will definitely remind you whether you've been keeping up with your cardio. Thankfully, there are handrails and benches along the trail because I absolutely took advantage of them on the way back. I thought I was in decent shape... the mountain quickly humbled me! My advice: wear good hiking shoes, bring water, and if you have a walking stick, use it. A neck fan isn't a bad idea either during the warmer months. Just because you see people tackling the trail in Crocs or flip-flops doesn't mean it's a good idea. If you're adventurous, there is a way to get down to the base of the falls, where people were swimming, but we admired it from the overlook instead. The surrounding mountain views are beautiful as well, making it an easy stop even if you're just passing through. If you're in the Bryson City/Cherokee area, don't skip Soco Falls. Just come prepared, take your time, and enjoy one of the prettiest waterfalls in Western North Carolina. read more

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I was seeking a waterfall and didn't quite have time to make it to Cherokee and the Great Smoky Mountains, and so located this turn-off a couple of miles off the Blue Ridge Parkway. The parking area is by the road, and the hike down to the falls is short, but of considerable grade. At the end, a platform allows viewing. You can't get anywhere near the falls or take a swim, and it seems like it would be a tough area even if there weren't a thousand signs telling you not to wander off the trail, which is shared with a driveway to some private property. It certainly isn't among the best Western NC waterfalls, but it's a nice site and it's free and open to the public, so not a bad place to stop depending on one's itinerary. read more

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Great little path- I believe it's under on mile there. Also dogs on leashes seem to be allowed as well and has its own parking spaces. Great photo ops here. Beautiful place and the walk isn't too far from the parking lot either just very steep so wear good shoes read more

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Soco Falls has been updated with a huge parking lot, observation deck at the top (beginning) and second observation deck at the falls with new concrete steps and wood railing. Some trashy, low class dregs of humanity have already vandalised parts of the decks and railing-which were installed and graciously gifted by the Cherokee Reservation Indians, how gross do you have to be to do something so awful? Regardless, it's a beautiful half mile hike each way and the serenity of the falls is so worth it. Hopefully garbage humans dont ruin it for the rest of us to enjoy this magical.place. read more

Soco Falls - Hiking Near Me

The newly renovated parking and trail access makes this a much safer experience than what was available in the past. To see the waterfall in its entirety from the viewing platform, it is a better view when all the leaves are off the trees, so Nov - Mar. read more

Soco Falls was amazing. This was a very short hike to the waterfall, around 3 minutes. I wouldn't recommend taking any small children since the path is still quite steep. There is an option to climb down to the waterfall and they do have a rope you can hold on to. I recommend good hiking sneakers because some of the rocks are slippery. The view and the whole area are just beautiful and it is worth the stop. It's the easiest hike I've ever done with such a rewarding gem. There are also many people coming and going. Everyone I encountered was friendly. read more

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Soco falls is located off the side of the highway in the eastbound lane on the outside of town. Please slow down as your likely to miss it if you're not careful. Once you get there take the hike down the side of the mountain ledge, and you will be rewarded with a serine scene comprising two waterfalls and a canopy of greenery. Difficulty: Not anyone can make it down the side of the cliff. Someone has installed ropes along the side which are very helpful and, in some spots, needed. It can be rather steep at times and somewhat slippery. I would not recommend this hike for anyone with ankle or joint problems, but you don't have to be an expert to participate. Attractions: Two waterfalls converge into a mountain stream to create a beautiful scene. There is also a large wooden observation platform you can climb down to if you don't feel like going all the way down the creekbead. Overall: Short hike down a cliff side that will provide good exercise and breathtaking views. Use caution but not too difficult many families with kids were out there enjoying the falls. read more

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Very easy to find as it's right off road..can be bit steep so if you have knee or walking issues it's a little difficult but absolutely worth it.. I could sit there and look at it for long time just so serene. We are staying in Maggie valley and it's on road going to and coming from Cherokee. No guard rails and steps are rocks and roots to trees so be careful.. you can get all way to bottom of fall and walk creek down there is a a path but I didn't get that far. There also was deck areas for viewing which was where I stayed put lol.. read more

Beautiful water fall that comes with a challenging path of access. If you have mobility issues or are afraid of heights it's probably best not to go all the way down. But you can enjoy the view from the deck when you get about 1/3 of the way there. Parking lot has limited spots. read more

Soco Falls - Hiking Near Me

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Very Cool Waterfalls I just realized that I had not done a review of this place and I just visited the mountains in September to see family . I have done this hike a couple of times and it is a short one , but can be a little slippery , so make sure you have the right shoes . They do have some ropes to help guide you and a lookout platform . The parking lot is small , only holds less than 10 cars and you can easily pass it if you don't know where to look . My son did this hike with me in 2010 , so I included our pictures . It is very cool . read more

Soco Falls - It's me ! Ha ha . I love to hike , especially waterfalls . I have hiked all over Nevada mostly , but also Montana and the Carolinas . 2010 - Hiking Near Me

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A short drive from our hotel and literally ON THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY! Once I saw people using ropes to get to the bottom I was content to just stay on the platform. It is beautiful, but a bit too risky for me to venture into the steep steep slippery narrow trail. Kudos to those who can! read more

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Stopped here on my way to Cherokee, NC. This is a short hike down to the falls, literally about 80 steps. You can see the falls at the top if you dont wanna take the short hike down. Lovely and breath taking, I will visit again in the Spr/ Summer mths. This is worth a stop for sure. Every yr in the spr I take a WaterFallin Vacay to upper SC, so this was perfect stop along the way! If you havent been to Upper SC you are missing out on beautiful state prks and outdoorsy fun! read more

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A challenging hike down but worth the view. This is NOT located on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It is off the parkway on a road that intersected the parkway called Soco road (aka SR 19 or Wolfetowne road). There is parking right on the edge of this road but the parking is very limited. There is a pullout that fits maybe 10 cars along the side of the road that the falls are on. There are at least 2 ways or levels from which you can see the falls. You proceed down a narrow path leading down to a platform that allows you to see the falls from below the road with a good view of the river and the falls. This path is a narrow dirt path that can be a little tricky but leads to a wooden platform where you can relax, take pictures and enjoy the view. The adventurous can continue down the really steep part that had several ropes to allow the visitors to traverse this part. It is one of the hardest hikes I have ever been on to see any falls in the United States. It is a very nice view from the bottom by the river. Remember that you still have to get back up to get to your car. Overall, I would recommend this set of falls for anyone wanting a pretty view and a unique challenge. Be careful and enjoy! read more

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Great short hike in Maggie Valley, NC. Boyfriend and I went up for the weekend to spend some time with his parents in Cherokee and decided on our last day to go out and see a few waterfalls that didn't involve a long hike. This was the second of the two we visited. Right off the highway is where it's located. Pull over and park then head down to the falls. Going down was easy but climbing back up is some work. There are ropes tied to the trees to help the climb back up. This is two waterfalls semi facing each other. The sun was beaming through one of the falls and made it even more beautiful. You're close enough to the falls you can touch the water or get a close up photo with the waterfall on you. We decided to stay dry. If you're looking for something very short, this fall is a great choice. There's also an overlook if you don't want to climb down to the foot of the falls. read more

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Wow so stunning. It's a pretty straight down to the bottom of the falls extremely straining. If not to much in shape can go to the observation deck. It's really a view. A must see.. read more

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In comparison to "Mingo Falls", this was also great. However the trek was a little more difficult than Mingo. If you can climb rocks and don't have an issue with heights than this one is for you. I didn't give it 5 stars because it had the potential for accidents unlike Mingo. There was also ropes that were tied from tree to tree all the way down, just so there is something to hold on to. This fall had many levels and different views, it was very pretty. Many picture taking moments. read more

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Amazing sight! Just steps from the highway. This waterfall was a beautiful sight and a big of a thrill to get to (well, for someone from a larger flat city, this was a "thrill" to "climb" down to). It was so peaceful and gorgeous. The two waterfalls merging was picture perfect. This was the highlight of my visit to North Carolina! read more

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Soco Falls is actually two separate waterfalls (fed by two different rivers) falling in one location. That alone makes it cool and unique, although we do have a couple of waterfalls like that back in Georgia. One being very popular Anna Ruby Falls and the other being Duke's Creek falls. One advantage this waterfall has is location, which is directly next to the roadway. There's no real hiking to speak of so access is fairly easy. But the disadvantage is the trail to the falls or its wooden overlook is not very well-maintained. The trail is steep and slick in areas, so you'll need to use a set of DIY-looking ropes alongside the trail to keep from hurting yourself. Although it hadn't rained in a few days, the trail was very muddy. The two waterfalls are roughly 18 and 35 feet tall respectively. Overall they are worth making a pitstop if you are traveling the Blue Ridge Parkway or visiting the Asheville area. I would not recommend trying to climb down to the base for families with small children or seniors with little upper body strength. They could however make it to the observation deck without the need of ropes. If you are looking for a waterfall CLOSER to Asheville, Catawba Falls is not only more beautiful, it's enormous in size. However, you will have to hike a fairly easy trail about one mile to see it. Enjoy 2018/95 read more

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It is a little steep but worth. I am 63 and had to be careful is all it is worth the walk and it is very short distance.

Love hiking. It's beautiful there. Not much parking so go during the week. It's best when it snows.

The falls are very nice, not the best the Smokies have to offer but worth the trip if you happen to be passing by. The hike down to the falls is a lot better now but still a bit difficult for less experienced folks! read more

I know, I know...how can I only give four out of five stars to a waterfall?! Because of litter! While this waterfall is gorgeous, its environs are not. Someone needs to clean up the place. One website advised waterfall lovers to descend carefully, as there is a lot of broken glass on the banks and on the adjacent rocks. I don't get it- "Sweetie pie, wouldn't it be romantic if we established this romantic moment/nature rapture/family bonding with the sound of breaking glass?". We missed this spot going toward Cherokee, and almost missed it going the opposite direction. The lookout parking area is sorta small, so it is easy to miss. The sign is blue and small. Leaving Maggie, go past the entrance to the parkway. It is about one and a half miles down the road on the leftside. The walk down was fine, but the walk up. I did not realize how steep it was. There is no railing, so toddlers need to be watched. It is not wheelchair accessible. There is a viewing platform that Brittany and Connor once stood upon and threw their empty beer bottles from, after proclaiming their love with a Sharpie. There are also ropes to help daredevils get closer. This is a climber's mantra- "Wet rock is slippery rock." Remember that. It is loud in the early spring. Very exhilarating and makes you feel alive. The winter is also a good time to see this double fall, as there are no leaves to block the view. The Cherokee used these falls as an entrance to their land and as an ambush base. Feel free to enter and attack litterbugs! read more

Soco Falls - By Soph. - Hiking Near Me

Such a nice view of Mother Nature not too far from the road. You can cross this off your bucket list in 20 minutes. We only stayed at the overlook because we had our 13m with us, but still a nice view. The hike down was a bit terrifying since it's rocky, lots of leaves, roots, etc. I think if there was a railing or a better path, wouldn't have been. The trek is short though, about 2 minutes and it's because you're going slow to watch your footing. Going back up wasn't bad though. I had my 13m on my hip for most of the way up. Hope to make it all the way down one day. read more

Soco Falls - Hiking Near Me

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Beautiful! Trail is easy until it gets closer to the downward climb to the bottom of the falls. It was muddy and slippery today. There are ropes to guide you down but depending on your age or physical ability it may not be enough to help you down. You'll need sturdy shoes, preferably water shoes. Our 8 and 10 year went down too. They loved it. There is an observation deck if you don't want to go down to the fall. I'm really glad we did it. God's beautiful creation and great family memories! read more

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This waterfall is right off the road. I would consider it a moderately easy hike down to the bottom. There is a viewing platform part way that is a great picture spot. read more

Beautiful falls and easy to find. Definitely recommend going to see them. Could use a bigger parking area and please be careful on the steep path. read more

Absolutely beautiful double falls! Great little walk 0.1 mikes from parking, nice overlook or challenging steep hill down to the bottom, great adventure! (Hard to find spot off the road right over the peak of the parkway) read more

Soco Falls - Hiking Near Me

Gorgeous falls! You will definitely enjoy the views, and it's a short distance from the road, which is nice if you're short on time or just passing through. However, the climb down (past the observation deck) is very steep, slippery, and ill-maintained. There was broken glass, broken trees blocking the path, and little to hold onto for stability down the slick rocks and mud. I would prefer to find a longer, less dangerous hiking path to a waterfall for the future, but I'm glad I saw this beautiful fall when I had the opportunity. Also, there's no real parking lot, and the gravel shoulder you pull off of is on a curve, so use caution when arriving and leaving! read more

It has mucho cool water. And the water also fell. I liked that part. Also there were ropes to help you get Down to the waterfall. Plus it looked nice. And I found some cool river glass and all my friends thought it was cool as well read more

Stopped at this waterfall since we didn't feel like doing any real hiking. Not far at all from Maggie Valley and it's a short walk down to the overlook deck. You can continue down to the bottom of the falls if you have some decent shoes and a little arm strength (steep trail, basically have to use the ropes to get back up). Worth a stop for sure! read more

Soco Falls - Hiking Near Me

Between Cherokee and Maggie Valley... One and a half miles toward Cherokee from the Blue Ridge Pkwy intersection. Small pull off is hard to spot. Worth the stop - two waterfalls spill out into one creek... Beautiful, not crowded. Steep steps down to very short walk to observation deck... Then the adventurous can climb down to base of falls. There are ropes there to assist with climb down and back up but we found it easier to maneuver on our own, grabbing rocks when needed... But really not a bad hike down... Do it! read more

Soco Falls - Worth the stop! Don't be afraid... Take the climb down. Beautiful. - Hiking Near Me

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A beautiful, natural, cool spot to relax in the mist and sound of the falls. The trail walk down to the falls is not for everyone but if you are up to it, it is worth the trek down. read more

Soco Falls - Soco Falls in June 2019. - Hiking Near Me

SoooO worth a stop. By far one of my favorite places to go. Picnic, think, and/or pray. It's so serene. I could never get tired of going there. The views are absolutely incredible. read more

This is a sweet little spot off the side of the road. It's a short walk down a muddy path to the observation deck where you have a spectacular view of the waterfall. I could sit there all day and just hear the water hit the river but wait, there's more. You can go down lower to the bottom of the waterfall on a narrow dirt path lined by ropes that made it easy. You will get wet and the path is muddy so prepare with good shoes and a waterproof jacket. This was such a nice stop on our trip and we couldn't stop talking about how nice it was. read more

Really cool place. We bring our dog and he baby all the time. It's a little hard to get up and down when it has rained. So be careful if you go all the ways down. People alway park like idiots instead of leaving room for other people so you might not be able to find a spot. ‍ read more

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Wow!! What a great experience and view. A viewing platform allows many to see and experience the fall but for the bravest heart including a 5 year old going to the bottom is possible with care read more

I love this waterfall. A nice short walk down to the falls. Make sure to wear hiking boots or water boots because it can be slippery and difficult to get to the water. It is so peaceful and the falls are lovely!! read more

Absolutely beautiful! It's a bit of a hike down to the bottom so make sure you're wearing good shoes and you're prepared for the hike back up! It can also be slippery so again, wear the right shoes! Coming from MV it's easy to miss because we couldn't find a sign. We only saw it on the way back from Cherokee because there was a sign. It's very shortly after entering the Cherokee reservation coming from MV on Soco Road. It's definitely worth the hike! read more

Quick hike to beautiful falls! I missed the pull off heading from Maggie Valley toward Cherokee but after a quick turn around, spotted the blue signs. We hiked down toward the look out platform for an awesome view! I'll return again with the hubby to manage the remainder of the hike all the way down with two littles. Great spot! read more