Bradley Falls, (Little and Big), Saluda
Can’t tell you exactly how to get to them as the trails are not marked, however they are located as follows: From Interstate Hwy 26 take NC-108 (at Columbus) towards Rutherfordton approximately 4 miles. Turn left at NC-9 and very next left onto Silver Creek Rd. Go approximately 3 miles, driving past Silver Creek Campground (offers tubing for the Green River). The next left (after campground) is Holbert Cove Rd. Turn onto it (left), go approximately 5 miles; it will become a dirt road, but in good condition. The road is hilly and curvy and when it bottoms after about 5 miles there will be some very large culverts in the creek that the road crosses over. This is the parking area (either side of the culverts) The trail is across from the parking pull-offs. It goes through a small field (may be overgrown in the summer). Bear left after field – trails go both to the left and to the right. (Right requires fording the creek.) Care should be taken as with any falls. Do not get into the water above the falls. People have gone over and lost their lives. It is about a 300 ft. drop. Another access to Holbert Cove Rd. is to take the Saluda exit (#28) off I-26 and, if coming from Hendersonville, turn left. Go approximately 4 or 5 miles to same bottom area with culverts. If coming from Spartanburg, it would be a right turn at the Saluda exit.
Bottomless Pools, Lake Lure
While, admittedly, it is really reaching to include the Pools in this Waterfalls Section, they are really worth seeing. Carved by the grinding of water-borne sediment over thousands of years, it is as though they were molded in place by some great power. This is privately owned but the admission is only $2. Relax awhile and enjoy natures charm. Only open during Daylight Savings Time and during regular business hours.
Bridal Veil Falls, Franklin/Highlands
Just west of Highlands on US-64, just past Lake Sequayah, is a fun waterfall: the 120-foot Bridal Veil Falls. There is a little loop off the highway so you can drive right under the falls, – perhaps even get a quickie car wash (if the water flow is sufficient). Highlands is about 40 miles from Brevard, the falls about 2 miles further west. The falls are a little less that 20 miles from Franklin. (See also: Dry Falls and Culasaja Falls a little further west on US-64). Warning: US-64 in this area is narrow and winding. Travel is mostly at speeds under 25mph.
Cullasaja River Gorge, Franklin/Highlands
As the name implies, this is a deep canyon created by the Cullasaja River. US-64 has been carefully cut out of the north wall and follows the river all the way to Franklin. Three major waterfalls grace the route: Bridal Veil Falls followed by Dry Falls and, finally, Cullasaja Falls. Cascading about 250 feet it is a fitting climax to the trio. It is not very visible from the highway and there is no designated parking area. But there is an extended wide spot which is well used. The trail to the base of the falls is steep and rocky. And remember, you have to climb back up again. The Cullasaja gorge is between Highlands and Franklin on US-64 which, though very curvy and narrow, is bi-directional and can accommodate up to medium size recreational vehicles if driven with great care. Be prepared for a slow but rewarding ride.
