Anyone who loves spending time outside and is planning a trip to Murphy will want to get out and explore. There are several fun things to do in town, but maybe you want to see some of the beautiful natural features of the area. Of course, one of the most popular features is waterfalls, and we want to share some of the best ones to see with you. Here are 5 waterfalls near Murphy NC you have to see:
1. Helton Creek Falls
If you don’t mind traveling a little ways, you should see Helton Creek Falls. It is actually near Helen GA, and the trail is short and kid friendly. This waterfall has two major cascades that rain down into a creek. The trail is more of a short walk and is about 0.2 miles long, making it perfect for people of all ages and abilities! To get to the falls, you’ll go south on US Highway 129 for 11 miles, Right past Vogel State Park, you’ll turn left on the first road and go 2.2 miles. The trailhead for Helton Creek Falls is on the right!
2. Leatherwood Falls
If you don’t want to go far to see a beautiful waterfall, you should head to Leatherwood Falls! It is located at the Fires Creek Recreation Area in the Nantahala National Forest right outside of Murphy. To get to the falls, you’ll take the 0.7-mile loop, and then you’ll quickly come up on the 20-foot-tall waterfall! You could make a whole day of exploring the Fires Creek Recreation Area. The kids can play in the water, and everyone can enjoy lunch in the picnic area!
3. Hemlock Falls
Another waterfall near Murphy NC is Hemlock Falls. Water cascades over the rock cliffs and tumbles into a pool in the creek. This waterfall is located in Tiger GA at Moccasin Creek State Park. The trail is considered easy at 1.9 miles roundtrip, and it’s a fairly popular area. To get to the trailhead, you’ll follow directions to get to the Moccasin Creek State Park wildlife observation tower. The beginning of the trail is right here, making it easy to find!
4. Shoal Creek Falls
Shoal Creek Falls is a waterfall near Murphy NC you will want to see while you’re in town. It is 30 feet tall, and water cascades down multiple rock layers. To get to this waterfall, you’ll take 64 West and then turn right onto Highway 294. Then take a right onto Hiwassee Dam Access Road. After you cross over the dam, you’ll continue several miles, and then take a left onto Morrow Road. Drive a little further, and then turn left onto Prospect Road. You won’t miss the incredible sound of the falls once you’re there!
5. Bald River Falls
Bald River Falls is a beautiful waterfall you’ll want to experience while you’re on vacation in Murphy. It is the tallest waterfall on our list, towering at 90 to 100 feet tall with several cascades that pour into the creek at the bottom. This waterfall is pretty unique, because you can hike to it on Bald River Falls trail or see it from Tellico River Road.
Now you know about some of the beautiful waterfalls near Murphy NC you will want to see. Since you have an idea of what you want to do, you just need somewhere to stay! Look through our Murphy NC cabin rentals, and book one for your vacation now!
