Naiad Falls
!
Only a few hundred feet from US 64, near Highlands, is the scenic and whimsically named Naiad Falls, dropping directly into Lake Sequoyah. Few travelers on the highway know it’s there, and even fewer have seen it as the only public access is by boat. A visit to the falls by canoe or kayak is a rewarding experience.
Read the Cullasaja River section for an overview of the river and its waterfalls, including a list of landmarks with mile markers. You can find it by clicking the Little Tennessee River Basin button on the Rivers page.
I made this image in 2009. At this time the house was only about 15 years old, but it appears that the water wheel is original to the mill. (025A-48558)
Driving Directions
From the junction of US 64 and NC 106 in Highlands, drive 1.8 miles west on US 64 to the Lake Sequoyah boating access area.
Hiking Directions
Quick Glance
Paddle into the Cullasaja River arm of the lake. When you can’t paddle any farther, you’re there.
Detailed Look
After a short paddle, you’ll come to the Big Creek arm of the lake on the left. A short distance farther is the Cullasaja River arm. Follow it to the end.
| Accessibility: | Lake paddle |
| County: | Macon |
| River Basin: | Little Tennessee |
| Watercourse: | Cullasaja River |
| Watershed: | Medium |
| Type and Height: | Cascading falls about 30 feet high Height estimated. |
| Landowner: | Private |
| Beauty Rating: | 7 |
| Elevation: | 3630 feet |
| USGS Map: | Highlands NC/GA |
| Hike Difficulty: | However difficult it is to get in and out of your boat |
| Hike Distance: | Paddle distance is a little less than a mile |
| Waterfall GPS: | 35.06117, -83.21722 |
| Parking GPS: | 35.067633, -83.22397 |
Photo Gallery
Click a photo to enlarge.
Then & Now
