Mingo Falls 1,215 Reviews #2 of 17 things to do in Cherokee Nature & Parks, Waterfalls Big Cove Road, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee, NC Save UTV ECO WILDERNESS ADVENTURE in THE SMOKY'S (Per Guest) 7 Book in advance from $250.00 per adult Check availability View full product details thetravelinexes 11 1 We are accepting new partners for added promotional opportunities. If youre visiting the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains, you definitely ought to consider the short (if steep) jaunt to Mingo Falls. [1] Mingo Falls Arguably the most stunning cascade in the region, Mingo Falls will hold your attention for hours. This tumbling cascade leaps into free-fall at several points, getting gradually wider near the bottom as it plunges over multitudes of little ledges, before being funneled back into a smaller cascade and into a tiny pool and rocky area. During the rainy months, you'll see small streams form near the trail that flow into the Kephart Prong. [1] The waterfall is among the tallest in the southern Appalachians. General questions and FAM tours: rjarvis@onlyinyourstate.com. This hike is a great place to check out. Mingo Falls. Look for signs and parking on the right. The nearest town is Cherokee in the Qualla Boundary land trust. Mingo Falls is located in Big Cove Community of the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary) in North Carolina. Take a seat beneath the stars and prepare yourself for a Cherokee story. Mingo Falls Creates A Beautiful Nature Scene In North Carolina Explore moving, retirement and real estate options in Asheville and Western North Carolina. It's short, though, so it's easy overall. Here's the good news, going down the stairs is far more easy than going up! Lace up your hiking shoes and lets hit the trail to Mingo Falls. The only downside is if you try to take pictures on the bridge and people come up onto the bridge, it will bounce ever so slightly and make your long exposures blurry. This is where historic cultural stories and experiences enrich every vacation. Even in the winter, this short hike in the mountains is filled with breathtaking views and an endpoint that leaves you at the foot of one of the tallest waterfalls in The South. Better than Ridgeline? Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. is the oldest Native American cooperative in the country, with over 350 juried artisans creating traditional Cherokee masks, pottery, baskets, jewelry, and much more. Mingo Falls is an incredibly beautiful 120 foot waterfall, just outside of the Cherokee Indian Reservation. 2 miles up the trail, you'll arrive atKephart Shelter, where you can rest and enjoy vies of the Kephart Prong. The falls are accessible after a steep but relatively short climb up a well maintained trail that starts with a lot of steps levels out for a 100 yards or so and then you cross a bridge over the creek at the base of the falls. Once you reach the fork, where you'll see a sign for the pinnacle, the trail will begin to level out, rewarding you for your hard work Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway from the Southern Terminus, Kephart Prong Trail, Great Smoky Mountains NP. Rated 4.2 /5 based on 6 reviews 4.2/5 based on 6 reviews Save. Hiking the Mingo Falls Trail in Cherokee NC - Blue Ridge Mountains MINGO FALLS - 138 Photos & 44 Reviews In search of other things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina? In order to see it you'll have to do a little footwork, tackling a flight of stairs has every sightseers climbing up 160 steps. The hike is a mile and includes 161 steep steps to a picturesque wooden viewing bridge that crosses Mingo Creek directly in front of the falls. Mingo Falls - WNC Waterfalls Even though this hike does not exactly get the blood pumping like an epic adventure does, it is short and sweet and is definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. Mingo Falls Cherokee NC - blueridgemountainlife.com Come early to avoid the crowds. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. The hike to the waterfall is only 0.4 miles in length, but is considered moderate in difficulty. Once you pass Sugarlands Visitor Center on your right-side, continue straight for approximately30 miles until you reach downtown Cherokee, NC. Reached via Big Cove Road on the Qualla Boundary of the Cherokee Reservation, the trailhead for Mingo Falls lies but a stones throw from Great Smoky Mountains National Parks Oconaluftee Visitor Center, the parks main south entrance. Mingo Falls in Cherokee | Cherokee, NC The steps can be slippery if it has recently rained so take your time, and dont rush the hike. Dont miss the many Cherokee events, attractions, and outdoor activities. Revel in the thrills. Photo: Kaldari, Public domain. Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds, but keep in mind that, depending on the season, the morning sun may hamper your view a bit. While in Cherokee, dont miss your chance to experience one of the finest casinos in the Southeast. (828) 497-9195. It is spectacular to view this treasure up close which is accessed via a short . Mingo Creek drains northwest off the ridge that culminates in Barnett Knob. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. Go 5.2 miles and turn right toward Mingo Falls Campground (there are signs for the falls, too). The trail to see the falls is short, but intense. See our full guides to more than 40 waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on our Waterfalls Page. Trail Description: Directions: Mingo Falls is one of the most beloved destinations in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. Love North Carolina? [1], No permits are required to drive into the Qualla Boundary or to hike on the trail to Mingo Falls. Drive five miles. Planning a weekend getaway or week-long vacation? This will keep you from having your tripod bumped and from having the motion of the bridge as people walk over it from blurring your time lapse waterfall photos. The stairs aren't steep, and there is ample room to stop and take a breather without blocking other visitors coming up or down. Advertise your story to our millions of readers! Its difficult to find authentic, handcrafted art in todays world. These oversized deer, also called wapiti, were reintroduced to Great Smoky Mountains National Parknative range for themback in 2001. It is a small hike up is pretty steep. Mingo Falls is an incredibly beautiful 120 foot waterfall, just outside of the Cherokee Indian Reservation. When you make it to the base of the waterfall, an absolutely serene landscape surrounds you and even if you are not alone, it is easy to forget about the crowds that tend to gather on the bridge. Immerse yourself further by making special reservations for the museums Cherokee Experience.. Review of Mingo Falls We stayed for about 15-20 minutes, taking lots of photos and just enjoying the wonderful sites and sounds of the falls. You will then find a 20 foot wide bridge which serves as the viewing platform of the falls. The trailhead is located about 100 yards from the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokeeand shares a parking lot. This immersive village experience will surround you with native culture and shed light on all aspects of Cherokee history. Distance. No special permits are required for access to the reservation. Blue Ridge Mountain Life is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. From downtown Gatlinburg, take the main Parkway/US 441 into the National Park. Big Cove is just north of Cherokee, NC. Deep Creek Trail sits inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is one of the most incredible places to go hiking in North Carolina. (EST) 865.436.1297 Oconaluftee Visitor Center (North Carolina side - south entrance) 828.497.1904 Sugarlands Visitor Center (Tennessee side - north entrance) . One of the tallest waterfalls in North Carolina sets a majestic scene in nature as it falls 120 feet over a cascading rock face high on a hill outside of Cherokee. Mingo Falls is a 120 ft high waterfall located in the Qualla Boundarya land trust of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indiansnear the town of Cherokee, Swain County, North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the eastern United States. Luckily, it has been a Cherokee tradition for centuries. The waterfall majestically cascades down nearly 200 feet of rock face and boulders. Mingo Falls is located in Big Cove Community of the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary) in North Carolina. Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. In a mountain range known for lots of gurgling and gushing water, this horsetail falls is one of the standout liquid landmarks. The trail is only a quarter-mile long, but the first part of it is very steep. Meaning "Big Bear" in Cherokee and standing at 120 feet, it's one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina 's Smoky Mountains. Mingo Falls is a 120 ft high waterfall located in the Qualla Boundarya land trust of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indiansnear the town of Cherokee, Swain County, North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains of the eastern United States. Take I-40 west and get off at the Hwys 19, 23, 74 exit. Start this journey and you will quickly find this to be true. Seniors, children, and people with disabilities should be very careful when climbing the stairs and should be accompanied by friends or family. Steep slopes on both sides mean that to get up close to the falls - closer than you can get from the bridge - you'll need to get wet and be careful. 17, 2022 Explore These Smoky Mountain Waterfalls Near Bryson City. Located off of Big Cove Road just five miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Mingo Falls is easily accessible from downtown Cherokee and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Mingo Falls - Go Wandering To be really honest, we were surprised at how beautiful the falls and surrounding area were, and would definitely recommend taking a some extra time to visit the falls if you're in the Cherokee NC area. Its a mere four-tenths of one mile round-trip hike to bask in this 120-foot-tall cascading beauty, but its on the strenuous side of things. Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Take a Journey to the Home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee. We took a few short breaks on the way up. I believe it's exit #27. At 120 feet tall, the waterfall is one of the tallest and most spectacular in the southern Appalachians. We climbed around the rocks to the base of the falls for a better view & some great photos! When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. Learn More Here are a few adventures you'll need to purchase. Mingo Falls in Cherokee NC (How to See This Great Waterfall) The hike to the top is about a half mile. The hike to the waterfall is only 0.4 miles in length, but is considered moderate in difficulty. [1], The official name of the falls originates from the Cherokee term Mingo which means Big Bear. The entire area is heavily shaded, so nice and cool as well. The trail leads to a set of wooden stairs that take you to a bridge that gives you a wonderful view of the base of the falls. Access Trail: Pigeon Creek Trail Trailhead: From Oconaluftee Visitor Center, drive south (toward Cherokee) on US-441 and take the second left onto Big Cove Road. Whatever the season, a short hike in nature provides a rejuvenating experience we all need once in a while. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Details. Add to Trip Map It A lot of fun here is priceless. Located off Highway 441, Mingo Falls is situated within a Cherokee Indian Reservation, but no special permits are required for guests to come to the reservation. Proceed to Saunooke Village shopping center, then turn right onto Big Cove Road. [1] Name Go just over the Oconaluftee River bridge to the next light. Information, Directions, Photos, Video, and more! Website. Near Mingo Falls, travelers and families can choose to stay in downtown Cherokee at a hotel or a motel or visit one of the many local area campgrounds. All 10 photos. Your hike will start at the base of the Blue Ridge Parkway just a few miles from the start in Cherokee. Insider Tips: Qualla gives you the chance to hold history in your hands, and even take it home. Those in good physical condition can make this a 30-minute excursion while the less fit may want to allow an hour. Larry Deane is co-owner of Blue Ridge Mountain Life. The trail to see the falls is short, but intense. Because of its accessibility, Mingo Falls also has the tendency to get most crowded in the Fall and Summer months. Whitewater Dr Cherokee NC 28719. Review of Mingo Falls, Cherokee, NC - Tripadvisor After approximately five miles on this two-lane paved road, you will see signs for the Mingo Falls Campground, which is adjacent to the trailhead. They say the Blue Ridge Parkway is more than just a road, it's a beautiful journey. At the top is nice bench where you can catch your breath, and enjoy the view and sounds of the creek flowing from the base of the falls. window.__mirage2 = {petok:"Nn.8QQWwj_FqATJBVgGk05JVorGzXuxlNI8vUS9uZX8-1800-0"}; Mingo Falls is on the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary), just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Many locals recommend going in the morning to avoid the crowds and for the best chance to see Mingo Falls in the morning fog. Turn left onto Acquoni Rd. Mingo Falls is located 6 miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor, just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the Cherokee Indian Reservation. You will receive your first newsletter soon. You're sure to feel the burn on this one, but just take your time. It is a really short hike so it can be crowded and isn't a day activity because of the short distance. Feast on the pageantry. Larry has more than 20 years of experience as a writer and journalist, and has established himself as a leading voice and expert for Blue Ridge Mountains. The trail starts at the back of the parking lot and begins going up a very long set of concrete and wood steps. We made it to the top without too much difficulty, but were a bit winded at the top. This cascading masterpiece is worth the many steps you take to reach it! Cross the bridge and park in the public lot straight ahead. Trails are free of charge, and open every day, all day. The Fire Mountain Trails are Cherokees newest source for big adventurea multiuse trail system thats made to mountain bike, hike, or run. Cherokee people who live on the Qualla Boundary enjoy this waterfall as one of the beautiful places to visit on tribal land. MINGO FALLS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) 2023 Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. Mingo Falls are waterfalls in Cherokee NC, located near the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, our exquisitely beautiful mountain course mixes with ancient Cherokee culture and the most modern golfing experience you can have. He has spent more than 20 years exploring the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and has a deep passion for nature, history, storytelling, and adventure. Mingo falls is a beautiful and one of the tallest waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains at 120 feet tall. We would recommend making sure you have some water with you, as you will break a sweat on the way up. At the first stop sign turn left and drive 4.5 miles to Mingo Falls Campground, where the trail begins. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. Last edited on 24 December 2022, at 16:52, "NPS: Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Mingo Falls", "Cherokee Indian Reservation - Cherokee's Waterfalls", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mingo_Falls&oldid=1129306054, This page was last edited on 24 December 2022, at 16:52. Make sure you obey the slow speed limit as you pass by the school area too. Once youve ascended those, though, the grade slackens and its a quick walk to the wooden bridge at the base of Mingo Falls. At 120 feet tall, the waterfall is one of the tallest and most spectacular in the southern Appalachians. You will see a small sign on your right at a bridge that says "Mingo Falls". Thank you! Mingo Falls or address: The pinpoint for this particular entrance starts just outside of Cherokee, North Carolina, following the Parkway North. The only difficulty is the 150-160 stairs that must be climbed to get to falls. I had to climb down to the base of the waterfall to get a good shot but then I felt bad because all the people who came to see the waterfall saw me smack dab in the middle of their view. In addition to being one of the tallest waterfalls in the area, its soft and smooth flow of water down a moss covered rock face is one of the most intimate and relaxing scenes. It's just a few yards to a bridge over the creek, with a great view of the falls just upstream on the left. Get more stories delivered right to your email. And, especially during moderate water flow, it's nearly picture-perfect. Here's one that I thought turned out really well. At the light, US 441 goes left into the Great Smoky Mountains - but avoid that traffic and madness and keep going straight. Mingo Falls Copyright 2023 Blue Ridge Mountain Life, LLC, all rights reserved. [CDATA[ Youll be taking the Pigeon Creek Trail to reach the waterfall, and the first leg is an invigorating climb up some 160 stairs. Please explore responsibly! Design by Element Advertising There is a small area to park that then you start your hike up the dirt road right after the gate. Nearby in the Great Smoky Mountains is the Oconaluftee Center & Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill. [1], Media related to Mingo Falls at Wikimedia Commons. The hike to the waterfall is only 0.4 miles in length, but . (828) 497-9195. There are two spectacular waterfalls on the Cherokee Indian Reservation Mingo Falls, north of town on Big Cove Road, and Soco Falls, east of town on US19 near the Blue Ridge Parkway. This area can be slippery, so proceed with caution.

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