From Waterfalls to Whitewater, Discover Hiking, Tubing, and Kayaking Adventures in Brevard, North Carolina.
Explore the Outdoors Near Twin Ponds
Nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, Twin Ponds RV Park offers easy access to some of the region’s most breathtaking natural areas. Whether you’re into hiking, waterfalls, mountain biking, or simply soaking in the mountain views, you’re surrounded by over 100,000 acres of protected forests, parks, and scenic drives. We’d suggest you check out:
Pisgah National Forest: Over 500,000 acres of hardwood forest with rugged mountain peaks, whitewater rivers, and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. Key spots include Looking Glass Rock, Graveyard Fields, and the historic Cradle of Forestry.
DuPont State Recreational Forest: A 12,000-acre playground featuring 86 miles of multi-use trails and numerous stunning waterfalls like Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls. Perfect for families, hikers, and paddlers.
Gorges State Park: An 8,000-acre rainforest park famous for its dramatic gorges and 26 waterfalls. Offers everything from easy strolls to challenging backcountry hikes.
Blue Ridge Parkway: This iconic 469-mile scenic highway runs nearby, offering countless overlooks, hiking opportunities, and the highest elevation campground on the Parkway at Mount Pisgah.
Waterfalls Around Brevard, NC
Known as the “Land of Waterfalls,” Transylvania County boasts over 250 waterfalls—more than anywhere else east of the Rockies. Twin Ponds puts you just minutes from many of the region’s most popular cascades and hiking trails.
Top Waterfalls to Visit:
Looking Glass Falls: A 60-foot roadside waterfall with easy access and stunning views. Great for photos and family visits.
Hooker Falls: Located in DuPont State Forest, this 20-foot waterfall is part of a popular 3-mile loop that also visits Triple Falls and High Falls.
Whitewater Falls: At 411 feet, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi and just a short drive south (into South Carolina).
Rainbow Falls & Turtleback Falls: Located in Gorges State Park, these falls offer both beauty and hiking adventure for all skill levels.
Rivers, Lakes & Paddling
Water lovers will find plenty to enjoy near Twin Ponds. From peaceful lakes to river paddling routes, the French Broad River region offers ideal spots for kayaking, tubing, canoeing, fishing, and swimming.
Mountain Biking:
Pisgah National Forest Trails: Extensive network of singletrack with everything from beginner-friendly loops to expert downhill runs. Popular areas include Bent Creek and Mills River.
DuPont State Recreational Forest: Multi-use trails suitable for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Less technical, great for families and casual riders.
Road Cycling:
Scenic routes along US-64, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the Foothills Parkway provide rolling hills and mountain vistas.
Annual events like the Pisgah Stage Race and Assault on the Carolinas attract riders nationwide.
Bike Rentals & Shops:
Earth Mountain Bicycle
Squatch Bikes & Brews (combines bike rental and taproom)
Hiking Near Brevard, NC
Brevard sits at the heart of Western North Carolina’s prized hiking landscape—dubbed the “Land of Waterfalls”—with hundreds of trails ranging from family-friendly walks to backcountry adventures.
Easy, Kid-Friendly Trails:
Andy Cove Trail (0.7 -mile loop): Features boardwalks, a suspension bridge, and small streams—great for families.
Pink Beds Loop (~6 mi): A flat powerhouse of wildflowers, beaver dams, and birdsong.
Moderate Day Hikes:
Graveyard Fields Loop (1.3 mi): Easy loop with multiple waterfalls and seasonal foliage.
Daniel Ridge Loop (~4.6 mi): Multi-use trail with lush forest and Toms Springs Falls.
John Rock via Cat Gap Loop (~5 mi): Scenic views at a rock outcrop overlooking the Davidson River.
Looking Glass Rock (~5.4–6.5 mi): A steady climb paid off with panorama atop a granite dome.
Waterfall & Vista Favorites:
Triple Falls Loop (~3 mi): Hooks you through Hooker, Triple, and High Falls—all on one trail.
Rainbow Falls (~3.9 mi): Dense forest leading to a beautiful waterfall with potentially a swim spot.
Upper Whitewater Falls (~1.7 mi): One of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi—worth the short hike.
High-Elevation Treks:
Black Balsam Knob (~1.5 mi): Open meadows and sweeping views—an easy but scenic high-altitude hike.
Shining Rock Wilderness & Devil’s Courthouse: Rugged backcountry options with steep climbs and remote views.
Tubing, Kayaking & River Fun
Davidson River Tubing: A calm favorite for families or solo floaters. Several runs offer flexibility:
Art Loeb Park → Sycamore Beach (~1 mi)
Davidson River Campground → Sycamore Beach (~2 mi)
Coontree Picnic Area → Sycamore Flats (~6 mi)
Rent tubes from Davidson River Rafting (at Pisgah Forest entrance, next to Dolly’s Dairy Bar) or stop at Dolly’s gift shop for rental gear.
French Broad River Tubing / Paddling: For a more varied experience—with longer floats, scenic views, and occasional mild rapids—this river is a local go-to. Outfitters like Headwaters Outfitters and Pura Vida Adventures provide rentals, guides, and shuttles for half/full day trips.
Two local favorites:
Sliding Rock: Naturally carved, 60-foot rock slide into a cool pool below. Best early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Caney Bottom & Cove Creek Falls: Great options for swimming and waterfall relaxation in DuPont State Forest.
