Skip to main content

Day Trips from Greensboro

← All Greensboro day trips

Day Trips from Greensboro: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes

The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Greensboro, NC. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.

9 waterfalls near Greensboro

Lower Cascade Falls, NC 27052, USA

Lower Cascade Falls

NC 27052, USA

Just 1 hr 3 min from Greensboro, rated 4.9 stars by 154 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 3 min4.9 (154)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury, NC 27016

Hanging Rock State Park

Danbury, NC 27016

Just 1 hr 2 min from Greensboro, rated 4.8 stars by 7,481 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 2 min4.8 (7,481)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Fall Creek Waterfall, Stoneville, NC 27048

Fall Creek Waterfall

Stoneville, NC 27048

Just 53 min from Greensboro, rated 4.8 stars by 130 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

53 min4.8 (130)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Widows Creek Falls, NC 28635, USA

Widows Creek Falls

NC 28635, USA

Just 1 hr 35 min from Greensboro, rated 4.8 stars by 215 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

1 hr 35 min4.8 (215)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Linville Falls - Trail and Waterfall, NC 28657, USA

Linville Falls - Trail and Waterfall

NC 28657, USA

Just 2 hrs 34 min from Greensboro, rated 4.8 stars by 1,830 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

2 hrs 34 min4.8 (1,830)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Upper Creek Falls, Newland, NC 28657

Upper Creek Falls

Newland, NC 28657

Just 2 hrs 22 min from Greensboro, rated 4.8 stars by 380 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.

2 hrs 22 min4.8 (380)Adventure$15 - $50

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, Seven Springs, NC 28578

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

Seven Springs, NC 28578

Just 2 hrs 21 min from Greensboro, rated 4.7 stars by 1,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

2 hrs 21 min4.7 (1,909)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Hidden Falls, North Carolina 27052, USA

Hidden Falls

North Carolina 27052, USA

Just 1 hr 8 min from Greensboro, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

1 hr 8 min4.7 (39)NatureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Mayo River State Park, Mayodan, NC 27027

Mayo River State Park

Mayodan, NC 27027

Just 43 min from Greensboro, rated 4.5 stars by 728 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.

43 min4.5 (728)NatureAdventureFree - $20

Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.

Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Greensboro

What are the best waterfalls near Greensboro, NC?

The best waterfalls near Greensboro range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.

Are there swimmable waterfalls near Greensboro?

Some waterfalls near Greensboro have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.

How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Greensboro?

Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Greensboro are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.

When is the best time to see waterfalls near Greensboro?

Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.

Don't know where to go?

Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.

Surprise me