Along the Cullasaja River in Nantahala National Forest, Dry Falls drops 85 feet as a vertical curtain in Macon County, North Carolina, where a paved walkway passes behind the cascade. The site sits directly off US 64 between Highlands and Franklin.
The falls
The Cullasaja River drops in a single vertical curtain over a rock overhang, and the recess beneath it forms a shelter that stays largely dry when the flow is low. Lidar measurements place the drop at about 85 feet. Earlier surveys showed 65 feet, while federal pass materials give 75 feet and local guides cite 80 feet.
Getting there
From Highlands, drive west on US 64 toward Franklin for about 3.2 miles to a large parking area on the left. The site is managed within the National Forests in North Carolina and requires a vehicle day pass, sold for $3 on Recreation.gov. The pass is honored that day at Whitewater Falls and Whiteside Mountain. Cell coverage at the lot is limited, so buying the pass beforehand is advised.
The walk is 0.2 mile out and back with 49 feet of elevation gain, mostly paved with numerous stairs and rated easy.
When to go
The site is open year-round. On busy weekends during the travel season the lot can fill, and visitors may have to wait for a space.
On site
An accessible overlook near the parking area gives a view of the falls without the stairs; the accessible route ends there. Below, the path descends and passes behind the falling water. Water and fallen leaves make the stepped walkway slippery; dogs are permitted on leash.
History and name
The name comes from being able to walk behind the falls without getting wet during lower flows. Earlier names include High Falls, Pitcher Falls and Cullasaja Falls, and it is also listed as Upper Cullasaja Falls.
Nearby
Bridal Veil Falls is about 0.6 mile away, and Kalakaleskies Falls is about 0.7 mile. Also on the Cullasaja River are Naiad Falls, about 1.3 miles, and Bust Your Butt Falls, about 2.3 miles. The town of Franklin is 11.3 miles away.
Distances are straight-line.