North CarolinaNC Waterfalls

Shoal Creek enters North Fork French Broad River directly behind the ministry complex. Right before they join, both streams fall over the 15-foot ledge known as Mill Shoals. An old mill still stands below the falls on Shoal Creek. An interesting aspect of the larger of the two falls—the one on North Fork—is that it is a river-wide drop much wider than it is high. That is uncommon for waterfalls in North Carolina, especially in the mountain region.

A house lies on the river-right bank, spoiling the view in my mind. The red house that sits above the mill on river left has never been a big distraction to me, as it’s old and fits with the overall historical aspect of the waterfall and mill. In fact, it makes an interesting enhancement to photo compositions, especially after it has received a new coat of paint. Fortunately for photographers, it’s easy to compose shots that exclude both houses, although you may still wish to shoot some compositions that include the red house.

A path follows the river downstream from Mill Shoals to Bird Rock Falls, passing Pulpit Falls on the way.