Roaring Fork Falls Hike
Waterfall | North Carolina
1.4 mi round trip
Route line not shown. The 1.4 mi distance for this hike is verified (exploreasheville.com), but we don't yet have a trail track we trust, so the map shows only the destination. Carry an official map.
About Roaring Fork Falls
Roaring Fork Falls is a waterfall in North Carolina, on land managed by Pisgah National Forest (Appalachian Ranger District).
The Hike
The hike to the falls follows the Roaring Fork Falls Trail: 1.4 miles round trip, from Busick Work Center gate (FS 5520). Distance from exploreasheville.com.
Before You Go
- Leashed dogs are welcome. (exploreasheville.com)
- Roaring Fork Falls Trail reopened after debris clearing and repairs following Hurricane Helene. (exploreasheville.com)
- Swimming is popular in the base pool, but there are no lifeguards. (exploreasheville.com)
- There are no restrooms at the trailhead. (exploreasheville.com)
- Rock around waterfalls is slick when wet; stay on the trail and back from the edge.
- Check Pisgah National Forest (Appalachian Ranger District) for current conditions, closures and parking before you go.
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike to Roaring Fork Falls?
The Roaring Fork Falls Trail to Roaring Fork Falls is 1.4 miles round trip.
Where does the Roaring Fork Falls hike start?
It starts from Busick Work Center gate (FS 5520).
Are dogs allowed on the Roaring Fork Falls trail?
Leashed dogs are welcome.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Slippery wet rock near the falls
- Fast, high water after rain or snowmelt
- Check weather before departure
Turn-Around Time
3:00 PM
Plan to reach the falls by this time so you are back before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Emergency / Search & Rescue
911Point Forecast
NWS Point Forecast →In most of the US, backcountry search and rescue is dispatched through 911 — tell the operator you have a hiker emergency and your GPS coordinates.
Downloads
Sources for The Roaring Fork Falls Guide
Where the trail data, elevation and route line on this page come from.
- Verified against
- exploreasheville.com
- Distance
- exploreasheville.com
- Falls location
- worldwaterfalldatabase.com
- Elevation
- ≈ Copernicus GLO-90 elevation model at the falls coordinates (via Open-Meteo)
Conditions change. Check the land manager for closures, fees and weather before you go.
Nearby Hikes
Other hikes within 30 miles of Roaring Fork Falls.