Waterfall Hero Hikes: Chestnut Cove Branch Falls (Wilson Creek)

Chestnut Cove Branch Falls is a sliding waterfall on North Harper Creek at the confluence with Chestnut Cove Branch in Avery County, North Carolina. The waterfall is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest.

Hike Length: 2.4 miles
Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Wilson Creek (Grandfather Ranger District of Pisgah National Forest)
Trail Users: Hiking only
Dogs: Yes
Features: Waterfalls (1+)
Crowds: High
Warnings: The rocks around waterfalls are slippery. Getting to a view of the waterfall may require wading.
Trailhead GPS: 36.01062,-81.82573
Waterfall GPS: 36.00302,-81.83910

Directions:

From Morganton, head north on NC-181 for about 27 miles and turn right Pittman Gap Road, which becomes Clarktown Road. In 0.9 miles, turn left on Old Jonas Ridge Road. Go 0.5 miles and turn right on Old Mortimer Road at a church. The road becomes gravel and turns into FR-464. Drive 4.4 miles to a pull-off on the left opposite a gated road.

Map:

Hike Description:

There are a couple ways to get here, but this is probably the easiest with fewest water crossings. At the trailhead are two trails - North Harper Creek Falls Trail (#239) is to the left and heads down. Follow this trail for about a mile to the end at North Harper Creek Trail (#266). Go left and head steeply down for about 0.1 miles and come to North Harper Creek at another split. This is right at the top of the waterfall. Right goes to North Harper Creek Falls. Turn left to stay on North Harper Creek Trail and go a hundred feet or so and look for an obvious path on the right that leads to the base of the waterfall. You will likely have to wade to get a decent view and its probably not worth it.