Looking for a great family nature trip while on your trip to Highlands, NC, Then you should plan a trip to one of the region’s many waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Just a short 1.6-mile drive outside of Highlands in the Nantahala National Forest, Glenn Falls is one of those destinations you should put on your calendar.
This 200 ft waterfall is considered a triple waterfall because you will see the falls at different observation decks along the trail. The first observation deck of the upper falls is approximately ½ mile from the parking area. The middle observation point is another ½ mile down the trail and past that you will arrive at the bottom of the falls where there is a small wading pool.
In and out, this hike is 2.1-mile long, all downhill going in. That means it’s all uphill coming out with a steep elevation gain of 430 feet. There are many switchbacks along the trail to help make the elevation gain not so intense. So use these observation points as a chance to catch your breath while you take in the beautiful views of the falls. The trail is well maintained and has many man-made steps to help you along.