Linville Falls is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile post 316.4. The total height of the falls is 150 feet with four drops. Linville Falls starts with a twin set of upper falls, moving into a small gorge, and ending in a high-volume, 45-foot drop. Linville Falls, formed by Linville River, marks the beginning of Linville Gorge. Linville River continues on after the falls ending near Lake James.
There are four overlooks that you can hike to different views of Linville Falls. All views are different and are extremely beautiful. I recommend them all.
The 0.5-mile Upper Falls trail leads to the top of Linville Falls, where you can see the two small upper falls. This is an easy trail, which is wide and accessible to everyone.
Erwin’s View Trail (1.6 mile round trip) goes to two overlooks, Erwin’s View, which is a 0.8 mile hike, and Chimney View, which is a 0.7 miles hike. These are a little steeper than the Upper Falls trail, and are considered to be a moderate trail. The trail is generally well maintained and free of most obstacles.
The 0.5-mile Plunge Basin Trail leads to Plunge Basin Overlook, gives you a view of Linville Falls from the other side of the river. The Gorge Trail, which is a 0.7 mile hike, branches off from the Plunge Basin trail, taking you to an area near the base of the falls. These are moderate and hard trails respectively, although we were able to take our 9 year old son on both without issue.
Linville Falls is very popular, so during summer and fall it is best to visit on the weekdays to avoid the crowds. The Blue Ridge Parkway has a large parking log, but it can still overflow during the busy times of the season.
Royce says
Linville Falls is one of my wife and I’s favorite waterfall. It’s not far from us so we visit it frequently. I would highly recommend it.