Hiking to Moore Cove Falls
Adventure Destination

Hiking to Moore Cove Falls

Explore the 1.2-mile Moore Cove Falls Trail in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, NC. This easy hike is perfect for beginners and offers a peaceful walk to a scenic waterfall. Capture stunning photos behind the falls and enjoy the lush forest surroundings.

Hiking7.0/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Tucked into the verdant arms of Pisgah National Forest, Moore Cove Falls is a brief but enchanting hike, perfect for those moments when life calls for something simple yet profound.

The trail begins near Highway 276, its unassuming start a quiet promise of what’s to come. At just 1.2 miles round trip, the path weaves gently through a forest alive with rhododendrons, wooden bridges, and the soft symphony of water. It’s a hike for all—accessible, welcoming, and brimming with charm.

Moore Cove Falls spills gently over a 50-foot rock ledge, its wispy cascade shimmering like a silver veil. Unlike many of its roaring counterparts, this waterfall whispers—a soft song that invites you closer. Step behind it, and you’ll enter a cool, misty grotto where sunlight dances on stone and water. It’s here, behind the curtain, that the true magic of Moore Cove reveals itself.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just passing through Brevard, this trail reminds us that even the smallest journeys can hold immense beauty. Bring a camera, pause behind the falls, and let the place speak to you.


Moore Cove Falls Adventure Guide

Trail Details

  • Location: Pisgah National Forest, off Highway 276, near Brevard, NC.
  • Distance: 1.2 miles round trip.
  • Difficulty: Easy.

What to Bring

  • Footwear: Comfortable hiking shoes, though sneakers will suffice due to the trail’s mild terrain.
  • Water: The hike is short, but always pack a small bottle.
  • Camera: For capturing the unique behind-the-falls perspective.

Tips for the Trail

  • Timing: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the soft light filtering through the trees.
  • Seasonal Note: The rhododendron blooms in late spring add an extra layer of beauty.

Directions

From Brevard, take Highway 276 North for approximately 6.5 miles to the Moore Cove Falls parking area. The lot is small, so consider arriving early on weekends.

Editorial Assessment

Moore Cove Falls is a charming waterfall hidden within a lush forest, offering a serene hiking experience. While it provides a peaceful outdoor adventure, it may not be considered exceptionally unique on a global scale compared to other natural landmarks.

Hiking to Moore Cove Falls

Adventure Guide to Hiking to Moore Cove Falls

1

Experience Hiking to Moore Cove Falls

  • Special Features: Explore the 1.2-mile Moore Cove Falls Trail in Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, NC. This easy hike is perfect for beginners and offers a peaceful walk to a scenic waterfall. Capture stunning photos behind the falls and enjoy the lush forest surroundings.
  • Visitor Tips: Best time to visit is during Spring. Bring adequate water, appropriate outdoor gear, and camera.
  • Directions: Pisgah Forest, NC 28768, USA
2

Exploring Near Brevard, North Carolina

  • Local Insights: Offers direct access to top trails, protected natural reserves, and picturesque viewpoints across Brevard, North Carolina.
  • Visitor Tips: Check local regulations, trail conditions, and weather before heading out.
3

Photography and Wildlife

  • Special Highlights: Capture panoramic sunrise and sunset views across the surrounding mountain terrain.
  • Visitor Tips: Arrive in early morning or late afternoon for the softest lighting and quieter trails.

Reviews

Y
Yevgeniy Vostokova week ago

Beautiful Waterfall and Easy Visit Moore Cove Falls is definitely worth a visit. The access is relatively easy, and the short walk to the waterfall is pleasant and scenic. You can even walk behind the falls, which makes for some really cool and unique photos. A great stop if you’re exploring the Asheville area!

T
Tami Stewart2 months ago

I wouldn't call this an easy trail. Took us 40 minutes to the waterfall and 30 minutes out. Lots of uphill climbs and stairs (uneven). No benches or picnic tables along the way. We found using walking sticks was helpful. Beautifully shaded walking path. Some came in swimming suits to wade in the water or to stand in, near or behind the waterfall. The paths down to the waterfall were a bit tricky.

J
Jonah Bishop2 months ago

Nice, short hike to a scenic spot with a waterfall you can walk behind. Parking on the weekend was tough, so plan accordingly. Lots of trip hazards along the trail means you need to be aware. Our youngest fell and injured her hand, but we pressed on. The falls were moderately crowded; I could imagine that it's nicer in the early morning or late afternoon.

H
Heather Schuerlein3 months ago

Great hike for the kids. Easy to moderate, but our 5 year old and 9 year old has no problems at all. Beautiful hike and waterfall!

D
David Lewis4 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Lake Keowee at Dusk: A 90‑Minute Tropical Cruise Past Waterfalls and Mountain Vistas35.1 mi
Six Mile, South Carolina

Lake Keowee at Dusk: A 90‑Minute Tropical Cruise Past Waterfalls and Mountain Vistas

A 90-minute Lake Keowee cruise that threads tranquil water, waterfalls and mountain views — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

35.1 miView Trips & Details →
Vistas & Waterfalls: Asheville’s Guided Landscape and Waterfall Photography Sessions23.6 mi
Asheville, North Carolina

Vistas & Waterfalls: Asheville’s Guided Landscape and Waterfall Photography Sessions

A hands-on photography tour in and around Asheville that leads you to grand vistas, waterfalls and intimate forest scenes and explains what to expect on half- and full-day outings.

23.6 miView Trips & Details →
Secluded Half-Day Fly Fishing on Private Chauga River Waters31.1 mi
Salem, South Carolina

Secluded Half-Day Fly Fishing on Private Chauga River Waters

A four-hour, private-water fly-fishing outing on the Chauga River near Salem — useful for planning booking, group size, and what to expect on this managed stretch.

31.1 miView Trips & Details →
TukTuk Through Beer City USA: A 2‑Hour Electric Brewski Hop in Asheville23.4 mi
Asheville, North Carolina

TukTuk Through Beer City USA: A 2‑Hour Electric Brewski Hop in Asheville

A 2‑hour electric TukTuk tour that stops at up to three breweries across Downtown, the River Arts District, or West Asheville—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

23.4 miView Trips & Details →
Flatwater Freedom: Day SUP Rentals Across Transylvania County’s Lake Network13.4 mi
Transylvania County, North Carolina

Flatwater Freedom: Day SUP Rentals Across Transylvania County’s Lake Network

Day, two-day, and three-day stand-up paddleboard rentals delivered to local lakes with a brief lesson for beginners—this guide explains how to reserve, what to expect, and which boards suit remote outings.

13.4 miView Trips & Details →
Four Hours on Lake Jocassee: Private Waterfalls, Swim Time, and Quiet Company31.2 mi
Salem, South Carolina

Four Hours on Lake Jocassee: Private Waterfalls, Swim Time, and Quiet Company

A private, four-hour boat charter that guides your group to Lake Jocassee’s major waterfalls, offers swim time, and includes discussion of the lake’s history.

31.2 miView Trips & Details →