Waterfall Hero Hikes: North Harper Creek Falls (Wilson Creek)

North Harper Creek Falls is a 40-foot waterfall on its namesake in Avery County, North Carolina. The waterfall is located in the Wilson Creek area of Pisgah National Forest.

Hike Length: 2.6 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. There is one crossing of North Harper Creek that may require wading.
Trailhead GPS: 36.01062,-81.82573
Waterfall GPS: 36.00443,-81.84020

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 Chestnut Cove Branch Falls. Go right and cross the creek, which may be a wade in high water. After crossing, the trail heads through a lovely campsite and to the base of the waterfall.

You could also come down North Harper Creek Trail from FR-58, which you pass on the drive in. The distance is about the same but have to cross the creek several more times. Here's a video of the falls.