While on the way to Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls), you’ll pass an unnamed waterfall and “Pancake Falls.” Pancake Falls and an unnamed cascade can be viewed from the trail that is alongside the river.
While the area is best known for French Broad Falls, Mill Shoal Falls (also called Shoal Creek Falls) and Cathedral Falls, also known as Bird Rock Falls, these cascades have character of their own. I love the fact that all of the waterfalls and cascades on the property each have a different look.
These waterfalls are all located on the private property of the Living Waters Ministry in Balsam Grove. Living Waters Ministry gives permission for the public to visit their waterfalls at the visitors’ own risk. They ask that all pets be on a leash and that people do not leave litter or disturb their property (look, but don’t touch).
From the intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway and NC215, start your trip odometer at the stop sign before turning right onto NC215 heading south. You’ll go under the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stay on NC215 for just over 9 miles. Living Waters Ministry will be on your right. The owners request that hikers do not park in their parking lots, but you can park by the entrance of the parking area off the side of the road. There are some wide areas so be sure you are all the way off the road.
Once you park on the side of the road, you’ll see signs saying “enter at your own risk.” You’ll see the entrance to the waterfall trail just after this. Follow the trail down and it will split into two directions. Cathedral Falls, formerly known as Bird Rock Falls, along with Pancake Falls and the unnamed waterfall are to your left. French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls are to your right.
You take the trail to the left to go to Cathedral Falls. Follow the trail about 0.25 miles down river. Along the way, you’ll come across an unnamed cascade and then a short distance away you’ll reach Pancake Falls.
It is a great place to relax by the river. We had them all to ourselves when we visited. When you’re done, continue following the trail to Cathedral Falls. Once you are done you can return the way you came.
If you want to see French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls (of course you do), head back up to where the path splits and take the other path. When you look to your right you will see a bright red building with a waterfall right next to it. This is Mill Shoals Falls. Next to it is French Broad Falls. Both are about 13-15 feet in height, but quite pretty.
Thank you so much to Living Waters Ministry for sharing these beautiful waterfalls with the public!
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