A stunning waterfall in Blue Valley with a massive rock "house" you can explore behind the falls.

Statistics

0 - 1

hrs

49

m

49

m

3

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Easy

Description

Picklesimer Rock House Falls is one of the best-hidden gem waterfalls in Western North Carolina, and a hike everyone in the family will enjoy.

It's rather short, following old logging roads into a beautiful grassy meadow painted with spring and summer wildflowers, then meanders on to the waterfall, which can usually be heard before seen.

The falls, described as a "40' free-falling waterfall in front of a deeply recessed rock house," according to [this source](http://www.ncwaterfalls.com/picklesimer1.htm) is a stunning sight and the perfect destination for a hike as the bitter winter cold give way to the warmth of spring and summer.

The trail is pet-friendly, sees little use, and the vibrant fall colors are also spectacular. The hike originates from an obscure point on Blue Valley Road, just past the campground.

Look for a small pull-off on the left side of the road, and an old road leading up and to the right.

Neither water nor restrooms are available, and the road is unpaved for the last few miles of the drive there.

Any 2wd vehicle with moderate clearance will be fine, though. The closest town to the falls is Highlands, North Carolina, about 30-minutes away.

Should you have the time, consider visiting [Dry Falls](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2672892/dry-falls) just on the other side of town, or explore [this guidebook](https://fatmap.com/guidebooks/21455/) highlighting 5 of the best waterfalls along the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.