Waterfall 1 on Wilson Creek
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This is not a destination waterfall, but rather a pleasant stop on a drive along the scenic US 221 between Blowing Rock and Blue Ridge Parkway. If the creek is flowing well above normal, the waterfall is rather nice but at other times it won’t be the star of the show. Actually, there are two waterfalls here, one on Wilson Creek, the other on a side stream that flows into Wilson right at the pullout.
The more interesting sight here is the huge rock that overhangs the stream and the rock shelter that’s up the hill behind it. The shelter has been known to harbor humans since at least the time of the old Yonahlossee Road. See History below.
The 9.1 mile stretch of US 221 between Blue Ridge Parkway and Hollaway Mountain Road (SR1559) passes by several other small waterfalls, as well as Green Mountain Falls, which is always worth a stop.
(039Z25-170922)
Driving Directions
From the junction of US 221 and Blue Ridge Parkway, near the entrance to Grandfather Mountain, drive north on US 221 for 2.6 miles to the wide paved pullout on the left (uphill) side of the road. The pullout is 6.5 miles south of Holloway Mountain Road.
Hiking Directions
Quick Glance
View the falls from the pullout. The rock shelter is a few yards up the hill.
Detailed Look
Details not needed.
| Accessibility: | Roadside view |
| County: | Avery |
| River Basin: | Catawba |
| Watercourse: | Wilson Creek |
| Watershed: | Very small |
| Type and Height: | Small sliding cascade of unknown height |
| Landowner: | Pisgah NF, Grandfather RD |
| Beauty Rating: | 2 |
| Elevation: | 4040 feet |
| USGS Map: | Grandfather Mountain |
| Hike Difficulty: | View roadside |
| Hike Distance: | |
| Waterfall GPS: | 36.097081, -81.807538 |
| Parking GPS: | 36.097081, -81.807538 |
Photo Gallery
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Then & Now
Historical Gallery
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