Spectacular Jones Falls and Elk River Falls: The Ultimate North Carolina Waterfall Adventure, Newland NC

On July 9, 2021, I met my friends for a waterfall adventure in Pisgah National Forest. Our goal was to visit two beautiful waterfalls—Jones Falls NC and Elk River Falls. Combining the two made for a wonderful day filled with hiking, wildflowers, mountain scenery, and rushing water.

One of the best things about visiting these waterfalls is that one parking area provides access to both, making it convenient to experience two very different hikes in the same area.

Hiking to Jones Falls NC

We started with the 5-mile hike to Jones Falls NC. The trail was enjoyable from beginning to end, with beautiful wildflowers scattered throughout the forest. Part of the route follows alongside a creek, adding the soothing sound of flowing water to the experience.

The trail climbs moderately to an elevation of just over 800 feet. Although the hike requires some effort, I found the scenery well worth it. The forest was peaceful, and the combination of wildflowers, creek views, and mountain scenery made the journey just as enjoyable as reaching the waterfall.

When we finally arrived at Jones Falls NC, we were rewarded with a beautiful cascade dropping approximately 100 feet over a series of rocks. The water flowing down the rocky hillside created a spectacular scene, particularly after rainfall.

After spending some time enjoying Jones Falls, we headed back toward the parking area to visit our second waterfall.

Visiting Elk River Falls

The hike to Elk River Falls is completely different from the longer Jones Falls hike. A short, easy 0.3-mile trail leads from the parking area to the waterfall, making it a great option for visitors who aren’t looking for a lengthy hike.

Elk River Falls drops approximately 50 feet into a beautiful plunge pool surrounded by forest. When we arrived, the area was quite popular. Several people were swimming in the pool, while others were jumping from the rocks into the water.

The falls were especially impressive because of the recent rain. The increased water flow gave Elk River Falls a powerful appearance, and the surrounding forest looked lush and vibrant.

Although swimming is popular here, I would recommend exercising caution around the falls. Wet rocks can be extremely slippery, and conditions around waterfalls and plunge pools can change quickly.

Between the two waterfalls, I loved how different the experiences were. Jones Falls NC offered a longer, scenic hike through the forest, while Elk River Falls was an easy walk to an impressive waterfall and swimming hole.

A Stop in Newland

After our waterfall adventure, we drove to Newland, North Carolina, for dinner. This charming small town was a wonderful way to end the day.

We enjoyed strolling along Main Street and admiring the colorful flowers planted throughout town. We also stopped to photograph the large mural, which added plenty of personality to this little mountain community.

If you’re looking for a fun North Carolina waterfall day trip, I highly recommend combining Jones Falls NC and Elk River Falls. You can enjoy a longer hike, an easy waterfall walk, beautiful mountain scenery, wildflowers, and a charming small town all in one outing.

And if you can plan your visit after some rainfall, the waterfalls may be especially spectacular!

If You Go

Location: Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina
Visited: July 9, 2021
Highlights: Jones Falls NC, Elk River Falls, wildflowers, creek views, and mountain scenery
Parking: One parking area provides access to both waterfalls.
Jones Falls NC: Approximately 5 miles of hiking with a moderate climb to just over 800 feet.
Elk River Falls: Approximately 0.3 miles from the parking area on an easy trail.
Jones Falls: Drops approximately 100 feet over a series of rocks.
Elk River Falls: Drops approximately 50 feet into a plunge pool.
Best after rain: Recent rainfall can increase the water flow and make both waterfalls especially impressive.
Swimming: Swimming is popular at Elk River Falls, but use caution around the waterfall and slippery rocks.
What to bring: Water, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera.
Photography: Bring a tripod if you want to capture long-exposure waterfall photographs.
Tip: Consider adding a stop in Newland for dinner and a stroll through town.
Safety: Be especially careful around waterfalls, wet rocks, and the plunge pool.
Before you go: Check current trail conditions, parking information, weather, and waterfall conditions.

References Elk Falls on Alltrails, Jones Falls On AllTrails, VisitNC

North Carolina Hiking and Attraction Map

2 thoughts on “Spectacular Jones Falls and Elk River Falls: The Ultimate North Carolina Waterfall Adventure, Newland NC”

Marcelle Khalil says:

09/13/2021 at 11:21 am

Beautiful

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1. Sylvie Feghali Smith says:
  
  09/13/2021 at 11:27 am
  
  Thanks Marcelle. It really is.
  
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