Whitewater Falls, Nantahala National Forest

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Whitewater Falls, Nantahala National Forest

The first time I went to Whitewater Falls, in 1993, there was no fee, the path to the overlook was not paved and there was no lower overlook nor a stairway to it, as I recall. I remember climbing down through the woods and getting, if not on the edge of the Whitewater River, pretty close to it for a nice view of the 411-foot falls from below. It was nice on a return visit in August 2008 to see some money going into developing scenic sites.

Today a paved path passes a wide lawn and takes you to the upper-level overlook. A stairway provides another viewing opportunity below. This is actually the Upper Whitewater Falls; the 400-foot lower falls is in South Carolina.

Here’s a look at the upper portion of the waterfall.

A closer look at the lower cascade …

Stairs to the lower overlook also provides access to the Foothills National Recreation Trail about midway down.

In addition to views of the falls and Lake Jocassee, South Carolina, in the distance (below), the recreation area has flush toilets, picnic tables and shelters, and a large parking lot.

A $2 fee is collected at a self-service pay station. Dispensers at the pay station and elsewhere in the parking lot issue pink envelopes and day-use passes to hang from your car’s rearview mirror.