Soco Falls is a 120 foot, double waterfall located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, just on the edge of the Cherokee Indian Reservation. You can view Soco Falls from several different locations. The first is the observation deck. The trail starts at the break in the guard rail just off the parking area. It takes less than five minutes to walk to the observation deck. There are a few tall steps that take you down to the trail. My little guy needed some assistance here as the steps gave his little legs an issue. Follow the trail down to where it forks. Go to the right to view Soco Falls from the observation deck. This gives you a really good view, so if you are uncertain as to if you want to try the more difficult part of the trail then simply enjoy the spectacular view from here.
It is worth noting that the second waterfall and the very top of the other waterfall are mostly obstructed. However, the view is still quite beautiful. I would rate the trail to the observation deck as easy during good weather conditions.
For a closer view, continue down a steep trail from the deck to the base of the waterfalls. This section is steep and downhill. A system of ropes has been set up to help you climb to the base of Soco Falls and return to your car afterward. I have short legs and had to rely heavily on the ropes both climbing down and back up. I would rate this section of the trail as moderate in good weather conditions. If it has rained recently then I would rate it as difficult. There’s a section about halfway down where you can view the waterfall without going all the way to the base if it is too crowded. Once you have viewed Soco Falls, return the way you came.
From Maggie Valley, take Highway 19 south to the Blue Ridge Parkway (from the Soco Gap Milepost 455.7). Cross under the Blue Ridge Parkway and continue downhill on Highway 19 toward Cherokee. After you pass the Parkway, it’s 1.5 miles to an unmarked pullout on the left side of the road. It is easy to miss so watch carefully when close. Parking is limited, only about 10 cars can fit. Just before you reach the parking area, you’ll see a small blue sign with Soco Falls 0.5 miles ahead written on it, however it’s actually 0.3 miles from that sign according to my odometer. While you’re in the area, you might want to check out Mingo Falls (located nearby in Cherokee).
This waterfall gets pretty busy, so you might want to visit early in the morning or during off peak times of the year. The trail can be slippery if it has rained recently, so make sure you wear good hiking shoes.
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