Paradise Falls, NC

In August 2024, we headed to Paradise Falls in Tuckasegee, North Carolina. We followed AllTrails for directions to the roadside parking area and trail start. We pretty much had the trail to ourselves until we returned to our car. The trail is a short 0.5 miles but it is steep and technical on the last section. There are three ropes to hold on to and we made good use of them both on the way down and back up.

The trail difficulty is almost forgotten as soon as one sees the gorgeous waterfall. After admiring it, I made my way back up. My friend Laura took photos of me as I hiked up the last section. Photos are posted below to help appreciate the trail. Once on top, we followed the trail to the left to check out the upper falls. I was surprised to see a sign warning of nude bathing. As a proof I suppose, I was amused to see a red bikini bottom hanging on a tree branch along the trail.

Though this trail was difficult, I had great fun hiking it. Hiking poles and shoes are a must as well agility to climb a washed-out trail holding on to ropes, tree roots or rocks. Luckily it had not rained recently, so we encountered little mud otherwise I’m sure the trail would be slippery and quite treacherous as one approaches the fall on the last vertical descent. All in all, I enjoyed hiking to Paradise Falls. I am nearing 60 years old and my hiking friend is 66. We do hike often. I do not recommend this trail for beginners or children or pets.

Reference AllTrails