Mr. Pickles’ Top Highland Hikes
Hello there, fellow adventurers! It’s Mr. Pickles here—resident Scottish Terrier and four-legged concierge of The Park on Main, where the welcome is as warm as a sunny windowsill and the treats (for both humans and pups) are always first-class. Whether you’re trotting through town with a tail-wagging companion or exploring solo, the Highlands, North Carolina, area offers more natural beauty than you can shake a stick at—trust me, I’ve tried!
Today, I’m sniffing out the best waterfall hikes around Highlands. So leash up (or lace up!) and let’s chase some waterfalls together.
🐾 Secret Falls – 50 Feet
Distance from hotel: 6.5 miles
Drive time: ~20 minutes
A hidden gem for the bold and brave! The trail to Secret Falls is a bit rooty and rocky—especially after rain—so keep your paws steady. Along the way, you’ll cross charming little creeks (excellent for cooling off those paw pads). While it’s a bit of a trek, the peaceful seclusion and forest symphony make it totally worth it. No restrooms here, so pack accordingly (yes, that includes your water bowls).
🐾 Glen Falls – Triple the Splash
Distance from hotel: 2.8 miles
Drive time: ~10 minutes
This one’s a photographer’s dream—three stunning waterfalls (15, 60 and 70 feet) and four viewing decks! It’s a bit steep on the way down, which means a good workout on the way back up. Shaded paths and well-maintained trails make it perfect for pups like me who enjoy a dignified stroll, with plenty of opportunities to strike a majestic pose.
🐾 Dry Falls – 80 Feet
Distance from hotel: 3.2 miles
Drive time: ~6 minutes
Now here’s a waterfall with a twist—you can walk behind it! Just a few tail wags from the parking lot, this one’s a crowd-pleaser. The mist is refreshing, but I suggest tucking your phones and cameras away unless you want them to get a splashy surprise. Bonus: there’s a restroom and a small parking fee (my humans say it’s worth every penny).
🐾 Bridal Veil Falls – 60 Feet
Distance from hotel: 2.5 miles
Drive time: ~5 minutes
Looking for a quick, scenic stop? Bridal Veil Falls is located right off Route 64 with easy access and a unique twist—you can walk or drive behind the waterfall! A favorite for couples, families, and solo wanderers alike. Water flow is usually light, so it’s more of a gentle curtain than a roaring cascade. Great for a casual sniff and snap.
🐾 Quarry Falls – 25 Feet
Distance from hotel: 4.5 miles
Drive time: ~8 minutes
Nicknamed “Bust Your Butt Falls” (don’t ask), this is a splash-tastic spot for the brave-hearted. It features a natural waterslide and small jump point. A perfect place to dip your toes—or paws—on a hot day. Do take care though; the current can get strong, and slippery rocks abound. Not the best place for little ones or older doggos like me.
🐾 Silver Run Falls – 25 Feet
Distance from hotel: 7.7 miles
Drive time: ~15 minutes
This short hike leads to a charming swimming hole, perfect for families with kids (or pups who prefer not to hike all day). The calm waters and gentle trail make it one of the most pup-friendly options. For those up for a little more adventure, follow the trail at the base of the falls for a bonus waterfall upstream.
🐾 Cullasaja Falls – 250 Feet
Distance from hotel: 8.8 miles
Drive time: ~15 minutes
Wowza! This dramatic, tiered cascade drops a whopping 250 feet. You can see it right from the road, or for the bold, there’s a tricky trail that leads closer. It’s steep and slippery, so make sure your humans have sturdy shoes—and perhaps carry the smaller members of the pack. Either way, the view is paws-itively breathtaking.
🐾 Rainbow Falls – 150 Feet
Distance from hotel: 18 miles
Drive time: ~35 minutes
Feeling ambitious? This hike is a full-on adventure with a reward at the end: a dazzling waterfall that sometimes shows off a real rainbow! Along the way, you’ll pass Turtleback, Hidden and Stairway Falls. It’s a multi-stop trail and a splashy wonderland for anyone craving a waterfall sampler platter.
🐾 Upper Whitewater Falls – 400 Feet
Distance from hotel: 22 miles
Drive time: ~45 minutes
The granddaddy of them all—this is the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies! An easy, accessible path leads to an overlook that will leave your jaw (and maybe your ears) flapping in the breeze. It’s a popular spot, so aim for early morning tail-wags. A modest parking fee applies, but the scenery is simply pawsome.
🏨 Where to Rest Your Paws: The Park on Main
After a long day of adventuring, come curl up with us at The Park on Main—Highlands’ most luxurious (and pet-friendly!) boutique hotel. Whether you’re a couple on a romantic retreat, a solo traveler or a whole pack of family members, our suites offer all the cozy comforts: rustic-chic furnishings, mahogany floors, Keurig coffee for humans and even a special welcome gift for canine guests (like me!).
Enjoy continental breakfast in the morning, explore our dog-friendly garden courtyard, and let our team pamper you like royalty—furry or otherwise.
📞 Call 800.221.5078 or 🐾 email info@TheParkOnMain.com to book your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you with open arms and wagging tails!
Until next time, keep your nose to the breeze and your tail held high.
— Mr. Pickles 🐶💦