Moore Cove Falls Trail: A Hidden Cascade in Pisgah National Forest
Adventure Destination

Moore Cove Falls Trail: A Hidden Cascade in Pisgah National Forest

Explore this 1.2-mile out-and-back trail near Brevard, NC. Easy difficulty with a stunning waterfall view, ideal for hiking and photography. Popular among families, this trail offers an opportunity to walk behind the cascading Moore Cove Falls.

Hiking7.4/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

The Moore Cove Falls Trail offers a gentle escape into the lush embrace of Pisgah National Forest, where the quiet murmur of creeks and the rustle of towering hardwoods guide you to a waterfall straight out of a fairytale. This 1.2-mile out-and-back trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, serving up serenity and scenic beauty without breaking a sweat.

The adventure begins near a wooden bridge at the trailhead, located just off US-276, a scenic byway winding through the forest’s heart. The trail meanders alongside Moore Cove Creek, its waters glinting like liquid silver beneath the dappled sunlight. Ferns, moss-covered rocks, and wildflowers form a verdant tapestry along the path, while the forest canopy keeps things cool, even on the hottest summer days.

As the sound of rushing water grows louder, the trail culminates in a magical sight—Moore Cove Falls, a 50-foot veil of water cascading delicately over a rock ledge into the shallow pool below. Unlike many falls in the area, Moore Cove invites you to step behind its silken curtain, offering a rare perspective that feels as though nature itself is letting you in on a secret.

The trail’s charm lies in its balance of accessibility and enchantment, making it a favorite for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility. Whether you linger to soak in the falls’ cool mist or simply sit and listen to its soothing rhythm, this hike proves that some of the greatest adventures come in small, serene packages.


Editorial Assessment

Moore Cove Falls Trail, located in Pisgah National Forest, offers a charming experience with its serene waterfall and lush surroundings. While not among the most unique natural wonders, it provides plenty of appeal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and picturesque hike.

Moore Cove Falls Trail: A Hidden Cascade in Pisgah National Forest

Adventure Guide to Moore Cove Falls Trail: A Hidden Cascade in Pisgah National Forest

1

Trail Overview

  • Details:

    Length: 1.2 miles out-and-back

  • Details:

    Elevation Gain: Approximately 150 feet

  • Details:

    Difficulty: Easy

  • Details:

    Location: Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard, NC

  • Details:

    Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, when the water flow is at its peak

2

What to Expect

  • Details:

    Trail Features: The path is well-marked and primarily dirt, with a few small wooden bridges crossing creeks along the way. The gentle grade makes it suitable for most hikers, including children and casual walkers.

  • Details:

    Highlights:

  • Details:

    The ability to walk behind Moore Cove Falls, offering a unique perspective of this 50-foot cascade.

  • Details:

    The lush forest, abundant with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in fall.

  • Details:

    Opportunities for birdwatching and spotting small wildlife like salamanders near the creek.

3

Tips for Hikers

  • Details:

    Parking: A small gravel parking area is located directly off US-276. It can fill up quickly during peak seasons, so plan to arrive early.

  • Details:

    What to Bring:

  • Details:

    Comfortable walking shoes—while the trail is easy, it can be muddy near the falls.

  • Details:

    A camera or smartphone for photos of the picturesque falls.

  • Details:

    Water and light snacks to enjoy by the waterfall.

  • Details:

    Safety Note: Avoid climbing the rocks near the falls; they can be slippery and dangerous.

4

Getting There

  • Overview:

    From Asheville, take I-26 East to Exit 40 for NC-280 West toward Brevard. Follow NC-280 for approximately 16 miles, then turn onto US-276 North toward Pisgah National Forest. After about 6.5 miles, look for the Moore Cove Falls parking area on the right. Travel time from Asheville is roughly 45 minutes.

5

Fun Fact

  • Overview:

    Moore Cove Falls is one of the few waterfalls in the area where visitors can walk behind the cascade, making it a rare and interactive experience in the Land of Waterfalls.

Reviews

A
Alyssa Mahinin the last week

grea

D
Daniel Barbrow2 weeks ago

Got married here in November 2024, easy hike from the road to a beautiful location that made for a stunning backdrop for our ceremony.

C
Carolyn Sams9 months ago

limited parking . Fairly easy hike.

C
csganley6 months ago

Nice, scenic, short hike but it was very muddy and slippery because we went right after a heavy rain but it was worth it. We love the falls that you can go behind. Definitely worth doing.

S
Susan Martinez-Diaz5 months ago

We loved it here. It was a beautiful walk. Nice, quiet and relaxing by the waterfall. Went on a weekend not busy at all. I definitely recommend this place.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Yeti SB140 in Boulder: A carbon‑fiber mid‑travel 29er built for guided rides and coaching4.54 mi
Boulder, Colorado

Yeti SB140 in Boulder: A carbon‑fiber mid‑travel 29er built for guided rides and coaching

Guided rides and flexible rentals of the Yeti Cycles SB140 — a mid‑travel, full‑suspension 29" with a 12‑speed drivetrain and dropper post, available in S, M and L.

4.54 miView Trips & Details →
Trail-Ready Kids’ Bikes in Boulder: 20" and 24" with Front Suspension and Gears4.54 mi
Boulder, Colorado

Trail-Ready Kids’ Bikes in Boulder: 20" and 24" with Front Suspension and Gears

A concise guide to the kids’ bike options available in Boulder—front-suspension, geared 20" and 24" models chosen to fit each child by height and weight.

4.54 miView Trips & Details →
Full‑Day Mountain Biking with The Bike Farm: Ride Like a Local in Pisgah and DuPont4.54 mi
Asheville, North Carolina

Full‑Day Mountain Biking with The Bike Farm: Ride Like a Local in Pisgah and DuPont

Custom full‑day and multi‑day guided mountain‑bike rides in western North Carolina led by certified guides from The Bike Farm.

4.54 miView Trips & Details →
Jeep the Blue Ridge Parkway: Ridge-top Overlooks from Brevard4.59 mi
Brevard, North Carolina

Jeep the Blue Ridge Parkway: Ridge-top Overlooks from Brevard

A local-guided Jeep run along the Blue Ridge Parkway that delivers multiple mountain overlooks, light refreshments, and an easy, no-hike way to experience the high country.

4.59 miView Trips & Details →
Dawn, Dirt Roads, and a Cup: Sunrise & Coffee Jeep Tour over Brevard’s Mountains4.59 mi
Brevard, North Carolina

Dawn, Dirt Roads, and a Cup: Sunrise & Coffee Jeep Tour over Brevard’s Mountains

A 2.5-hour public Jeep outing that pairs scenic mountain views and a sunrise with freshly brewed coffee; this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

4.59 miView Trips & Details →
Waterfalls & Backroads Jeep Tour — Pisgah Forest’s waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway perches4.59 mi
Brevard, North Carolina

Waterfalls & Backroads Jeep Tour — Pisgah Forest’s waterfalls and Blue Ridge Parkway perches

A 2.5–3 hour public group jeep outing that visits at least two waterfalls and a Blue Ridge Parkway overlook, with minimal hiking, water and light snacks provided.

4.59 miView Trips & Details →