Courthouse Falls

Height: 35 feet
Trail Type: Dirt
Hike Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: 4
Beauty: 10

Overview:

Courthouse Falls sits at the base of Devil’s Courthouse, a rocky outcropping 5,720 feet above the earth that offers a great view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. According to local legend, the devil (obviously) holds court in the depths of the cave at the top of the mountain. Cherokee legend tells of a giant named Judaculla who dwells in the cave.

The waterfall itself bursts from a narrow chute into a hollowed out rock amphitheater with a deep, magnificently blue pool at the base. At some point, a massive tree fell near the base, which partially blocks the view of the falls. The forest service has done a good job of removing as much of it as they could, but it’s still very much in the way.

Directions:

From the intersection of US 64 and NC highway 215, head north on NC 215 for 10.5 miles and turn right onto the gravel FR 140 (if you’re coming from the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive south for 6.6 miles). Drive about 3 miles over four bridges to the small parking area just after the fourth bridge.

Hike Description:

The trail follows the creek downstream on a fairly level path. After about .2 miles the trail splits. Follow the blue blazes to the left and head down the ridge to the base of the falls.