Day Trips from Winston-Salem
← All Winston-Salem day tripsDay Trips from Winston-Salem: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Winston-Salem, NC. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
11 waterfalls near Winston-Salem
Lower Cascade Falls
NC 27052, USA
Just 42 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 154 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hanging Rock State Park
Danbury, NC 27016
Just 41 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 7,481 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Fall Creek Waterfall
Stoneville, NC 27048
Just 57 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 130 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Widows Creek Falls
NC 28635, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 215 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
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
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 1,830 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hooker Falls
Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 188 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Looking Glass Falls
Brevard, NC 28712
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 4,090 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Upper Creek Falls
Newland, NC 28657
Just 1 hr 55 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 380 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 657 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
Seven Springs, NC 28578
Just 2 hrs 43 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.7 stars by 1,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hidden Falls
North Carolina 27052, USA
Just 47 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Winston-Salem
What are the best waterfalls near Winston-Salem, NC?
The best waterfalls near Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?
Some waterfalls near Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Winston-Salem 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 Winston-Salem?
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.
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