Dill & Upper Dill Falls, NC

Located in the Nantahala National Forest of North Carolina, Dill and Upper Dill Falls is a fabulous set of very scenic waterfalls that should be on everyone’s to-do list. The 60ft and 20ft drops, respectively, are both very accessible and offer great photography opportunities.

The 1/4 mile hike to each waterfall makes them a great “tack on” option to other adventures in the area. Being that the trailhead is only a little further up the road from Dill and Upper Dill, I highly suggest visiting Herrin Knob Falls to help round out your day. Of course, there are also other great waterfalls further beyond Herrin Knob like Wolf Mountain Falls and Yellow Patch Falls, which are certainly for the more avid type.

Parking

The parking for Dill and Upper Dill Falls is located off FS 4663, which is off of Hwy 215 about 2.5 miles south of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Note that this forest road looks more like someone’s driveway when turning off of 215, and has a gnarly pothole right on the turn. It quickly turns into a well graded dirt road as you pass through private residential properties, but during the winter months it is gated after 0.6 miles in. Remain on FS 4663 for right about 2 miles from Hwy 215 and look for a left turn at a right hand bend for FS 4663B – Dill Falls. Once you turn left onto this road, follow it for 0.6 miles until it ends.

A Google Map pin for the parking can be found here.

Once Parked

The parking lot is the starting point for both hikes, so you’ll need to decide which one you want to visit first.

To reach Dill Falls – start down the obvious old logging road straight towards Tanasee Creek. In about 1/4 mile you’ll the waterfall. The best views will require some brief rock hopping.

To Reach Upper Dill Falls – follow the logging grade that goes up and contours the mountain. In just under 1/4 mile, look for a path that breaks left and down the short embankment to the waterfall.

A downloadable GaiaGPS track can be found here.