Trailhead for Findley Falls - Bryson City, NC
Trailhead for Findley Falls: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Gem in Bryson City, NC
If you’re searching for a scenic, pet-friendly trail in Bryson City, North Carolina, the Trailhead for Findley Falls is a must-visit destination. This location offers dog owners a tranquil retreat surrounded by mountain streams, waterfalls, and lush landscapes — perfect for dog-friendly hiking and adventure. The trail features multiple picnic areas, easy parking right off the road, and even ADA-accessible paths, ensuring everyone (and every pup!) can enjoy the natural beauty without hassle.
Unique touches like a charming wooden bridge, abandoned railroad tracks, and the soothing sounds of cascading waters make this spot especially inviting. The short walk to the falls is easy, making it suitable for families, young children, and dogs needing exercise, while more challenging hikes are accessible for those seeking a workout. Even though there isn’t a formal dog park enclosure, leashed pets are made welcome as you explore some of the best pet-friendly trails in Western North Carolina.
FAQ for Trailhead for Findley Falls
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs should remain leashed while exploring the trails.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is not a fenced area specifically for dogs.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there is an ADA-accessible area with even ground and easy access from the parking lot.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available directly off Nantahala Gorge Road, just steps from the trailhead.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, several scenic pet-friendly hiking trails are accessible from this trailhead, ranging from easy walks to more strenuous climbs.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, you’ll find multiple shaded picnic areas and natural shade along the trails.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, there are several picnic spots available throughout the park.
Reviews
Ok so a few things to know, when you park there isn’t a train head sign, you’re going to go up the stairs over the railroad tracks then you’ll see a small path cutting in a north direction slightly west till you need a river, and the trail then will split into two directions. One trail goes over the river and the other more north along the east side river. My daughter and I hiked over the river to the west for the first trip, for 20 min with a very steep incline. We are from Flat Florida, so it was a hike for us, also it was going up the mountain away from any water, so we turned back. We then took the second trail and not 20 steps we started to see the cascades off the rocks. We didn’t however have time to keep following up, so we don’t know if we have seen the actual waterfall. This is good info I wish we had. Also, there is no cell service. Still very pretty and worth going.
Ok so a few things to know, when you park there isn’t a train head sign, you’re going to go up the stairs over the railroad tracks then you’ll see a small path cutting in a north direction slightly west till you need a river, and the trail then will split into two directions. One trail goes over the river and the other more north along the east side river. My daughter and I hiked over the river to the west for the first trip, for 20 min with a very steep incline. We are from Flat Florida, so it was a hike for us, also it was going up the mountain away from any water, so we turned back. We then took the second trail and not 20 steps we started to see the cascades off the rocks. We didn’t however have time to keep following up, so we don’t know if we have seen the actual waterfall. This is good info I wish we had. Also, there is no cell service. Still very pretty and worth going.
Trail is across the street from the Nantahala River, about 1/4 mile from Pattons Lookout. The road for the trail head is not marked, so just know it’s the first road on the left after you pass Patton’s on the river. It is a short walk to Findley Falls. Since other reviewers, posted pictures of the falls, I decided to add the picnic area, trail, and a little clarification about the trail. My video clip show the picnic area, you will climb up from the picnic area (or some people walk through the tunnel), cross the train tracks, and walk the path (which is not marked). Soon, a decision to go left or go straight. To the left is the wood bridge that leads to a strenuous hike, so go straight on a narrow path and it is a short walk to the falls. Trail is great for young children and those you don’t want a difficult or long trek.
Trail is across the street from the Nantahala River, about 1/4 mile from Pattons Lookout. The road for the trail head is not marked, so just know it’s the first road on the left after you pass Patton’s on the river. It is a short walk to Findley Falls. Since other reviewers, posted pictures of the falls, I decided to add the picnic area, trail, and a little clarification about the trail. My video clip show the picnic area, you will climb up from the picnic area (or some people walk through the tunnel), cross the train tracks, and walk the path (which is not marked). Soon, a decision to go left or go straight. To the left is the wood bridge that leads to a strenuous hike, so go straight on a narrow path and it is a short walk to the falls. Trail is great for young children and those you don’t want a difficult or long trek.
Great short “hike”. Walk up through the picnic tables and cross the tracks. Follow the trail, you can hear the falls. Will be going back to hit the trail that starts once you cross the footbridge to the left.
Great short “hike”. Walk up through the picnic tables and cross the tracks. Follow the trail, you can hear the falls. Will be going back to hit the trail that starts once you cross the footbridge to the left.
Where the whispers of nature meet the harmonious blend of accessibility and discovery, the Trailhead for Findley Falls in Western NC stands as a testament to nature’s undying allure.
Even before embarking on the hike, the immediate surroundings catch one’s eye with the provision of multiple picnic areas spread across varying elevations. For those who need it, there’s an ADA accessible spot with even ground right from the parking, ensuring everyone gets to soak in the beauty without any hindrance. The convenience of having parking just off the road is an added bonus that cannot be overlooked.
But what makes this trail truly magical is the blend of natural wonders and man-made marvels. Within a mere 20-30 feet from parking, the soft gurgling of water beckons, leading to a delightful waterfall that intriguingly emerges from an old, abandoned tunnel. The juxtaposition of nature’s fluidity and the stoic remnant of human infrastructure is mesmerizing.
Just when one thinks they’ve seen it all, a short hike of about 50 feet presents a slice of history with old train tracks— a photographer’s delight. The hashtag #2 doesn’t just hint, but practically shouts an invitation for a memorable photo opportunity.
But Findley isn’t done enchanting its visitors. Journeying just 250 more feet, the melodies of a rippling stream await, accompanied by a quaint wooden bridge, painting a picture straight out of a fairy tale.
Perfect for those who want a combination of adventure and tranquility without committing to a long expedition, this trail promises an enriching experience in just 30-45 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just looking for a quick escape into nature’s lap, the Trailhead for Findley Falls offers a picturesque retreat. Highly recommended!
Where the whispers of nature meet the harmonious blend of accessibility and discovery, the Trailhead for Findley Falls in Western NC stands as a testament to nature’s undying allure.
Even before embarking on the hike, the immediate surroundings catch one’s eye with the provision of multiple picnic areas spread across varying elevations. For those who need it, there’s an ADA accessible spot with even ground right from the parking, ensuring everyone gets to soak in the beauty without any hindrance. The convenience of having parking just off the road is an added bonus that cannot be overlooked.
But what makes this trail truly magical is the blend of natural wonders and man-made marvels. Within a mere 20-30 feet from parking, the soft gurgling of water beckons, leading to a delightful waterfall that intriguingly emerges from an old, abandoned tunnel. The juxtaposition of nature’s fluidity and the stoic remnant of human infrastructure is mesmerizing.
Just when one thinks they’ve seen it all, a short hike of about 50 feet presents a slice of history with old train tracks— a photographer’s delight. The hashtag #2 doesn’t just hint, but practically shouts an invitation for a memorable photo opportunity.
But Findley isn’t done enchanting its visitors. Journeying just 250 more feet, the melodies of a rippling stream await, accompanied by a quaint wooden bridge, painting a picture straight out of a fairy tale.
Perfect for those who want a combination of adventure and tranquility without committing to a long expedition, this trail promises an enriching experience in just 30-45 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just looking for a quick escape into nature’s lap, the Trailhead for Findley Falls offers a picturesque retreat. Highly recommended!
It’s a short hike up over the railroad tracks to a small waterfalls. Great spot for just getting out and stretching the legs as you’re travelling through. However if you want a really good work out then about halfway back to the falls you will see a path leading off to the left that crosses this log bridge. If you follow that path you will climb about 300 m in just over a mile which is a pretty good work out. You will come to a small waterfalls which is an excellent little spot for a dip in the Mountain Stream
It’s a short hike up over the railroad tracks to a small waterfalls. Great spot for just getting out and stretching the legs as you’re travelling through. However if you want a really good work out then about halfway back to the falls you will see a path leading off to the left that crosses this log bridge. If you follow that path you will climb about 300 m in just over a mile which is a pretty good work out. You will come to a small waterfalls which is an excellent little spot for a dip in the Mountain Stream