Toxaway Falls

Toxaway Falls, an impressive 150 foot waterfall,  is located next to Highway 64 in North Carolina between Brevard and Cashiers.

Toxaway Falls starts at Lake Toxaway and flows over an interesting almost striped looking bedrock in an incredible 240 feet elevation change before disappearing into the forest. Part of the waterfall is located inside Gorges State Park, the boundary line runs right through the middle of the river with the east side being part of the state park.

The distinctive striped bedrock was formed when the granite rock was exposed for a large portion of the falls when the Toxaway Dam burst on August 13, 1916 after severe flooding. This flooded the Toxaway River when they received 24 inches of rain in 24 hours, causing the dam, which had no water level control, to break under the stress and sent more than 5 billion gallons  of water crashing over the falls into South Carolina.

It’s a nice stop along the way on the curvy, scenic Highway 64 drive toward Cashiers and Highlands. A great place to get out and stretch your legs while enjoying a great view!

I have been unable to find an area from which the entire waterfall is viewable. Houses  and condos have been built all around it.  I hope to return at a later date and see if I can find a trail or better vantage point.

If traveling on Highway 64, you cross a bridge below a dam for the lake. There is a place to pull off on the westbound side of the road. Carefully cross the road to a walkway above the waterfall.

If you visit the nearby restaurant just around the curve, there is a driveway near the top of the waterfall. There is also Toxaway Village Rentals, a series of privately owned condos, if you wanted to vacation right alongside this magnificent waterfall.