Dill Falls is a 50-foot waterfall in Nantahala National Forest in Jackson County. It’s a short hike from the road – and you can see both Upper and Lower Dill Falls on Tanasee Creek via two different trails (one mile roundtrip) from the same parking spot. It's one of many waterfalls along the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway.
From the intersection of NC Hwy. 215 and the Blue Ridge Parkway, go south on NC 215 for 2.6 miles. Turn right on FS 4663. The road should be signed, but there are no signs that say Dill Falls. Follow the one lane, unpaved road for just under two miles to FS 4663B on the left. Go another half mile to the end. This road is usually closed during the winter months.
Park at the wide spot at the end of the road. Two old logging roads lead ahead downhill and to the right uphill. Take the one leading downhill. Upper Dill Falls is uphill. The U.S. Forest Service dug out big holes at the start of these big trails to keep out vehicles. The downhill road has a side trail that goes around the cratered road.
Dills Falls is 1/4 of a mile on the downhill trail. It's easy to follow, arriving at the base of the waterfall. You can walk on some boulders up for a closer look. It's a beautiful setting, so take some time to soak it in. Since there are no signs for this waterfall, you will often be there by yourself.
Upper Dill Falls
Hike uphill back to your car and turn left to head up the mountain about 1/4 mile to Upper Dill Falls. It's not as tall, but just as beautiful, tucked into a lush cove. To reach the base of the falls, look for a side trail on the left with a couple of ribbons tied on trees. It's before you reach the falls.
Side note: National Forest land on the west side of Highway 215 in Jackson County is Nantahala Forest – the east side of 215 is Pisgah National Forest in Transylvania County.
Driving Directions
From Brevard, take US Highway 64 west out of town (nine miles from downtown Brevard) and turn right on NC Highway 215 at Headwaters Outfitters in Rosman. Drive 14 miles on NC 215 north and turn left on Forest Road 4663. From the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive south on NC 215 for 2.5 miles and turn right on FS 4663. Drive two miles and turn left on FS 4663B for a half mile. These forest roads are closed during the winter months. From the intersection of NC Highway 215 and the Blue Ridge Parkway, go south on NC 215 for 2.6 miles.
More Waterfalls
Continue north on Highway 215 for Wildcat Falls, Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades and Sunburst Falls. Head south on Highway 215 for Courthouse Falls and French Broad, Mill Shoal and Cathedral Falls. Nearby on the Parkway are the waterfalls at Graveyard Fields and Skinny Dip Falls.
