Great Canyon of the Southern Appalachians - Linville Falls over Linville Gorge


Linville Falls is an absolute must see waterfall. Plan on a half or full day there if you want to see the waterfalls from all the different overlooks that are offered and really enjoy the area to its fullest. The trails include four overlooks to the waterfalls, where wild flowers and foliage around along the way. The steep-walled Gorge is known as the "Great Canyon of the Southern Appalachians".

The hike begins at a visitor center located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway near MP 316. The trail crosses a bridge over the Linville River, following a wide gravel road and rolling elevation through a vibrant green forest. Tall trees tower over the rolling landscape of grasses, rhododendron, and fern. The Falls Trail distance is 1.6 miles round trip and easy. The Gorge Trail distance is 1.4 miles round trip and strenuous. The Plunge Basin Trail is 1 mile round trip and moderate. 

Slippery rocks and fast moving water can be extremely dangerous. Please stay safe.

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