Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Brevard area

This spectacular water fall called High Falls is located just a short drive down Staton Road and a quarter-mile mile walk down Buck Forest Road. Photo by Transylvania County Tourism/Tracy Turpen

By Laura Davis

Where can you enjoy over 10,000 forested acres, gorgeous waterfalls, a covered bridge, and 90 miles of trails and roads, located only a 2.5 hour drive from Charlotte? All this and more can be found in a scenic area of Western North Carolina between Brevard and Hendersonville known as DuPont State Forest. Just off Highway 26 West, Brevard is a friendly, quaint town with plenty of things to do–you can visit shops and galleries, learn about the history and culture and, of course, enjoy all the natural beauty the area has to offer. The restaurants, which can be found just off East Main Street, include a wide selection of cafes, delis, coffee shops, bakeries, and many options for casual dining. Brevard is the county seat of Transylvania County (derived from the Latin words “trans” (across) and “sylvan” (woods)). The land, originally occupied by the Cherokee Indians, is full of history and impressive scenery.

My Mountain Adventure

Before venturing to see the attractions, I stopped at the town’s visitor center where I found maps, brochures and other useful information. After spending a relaxing morning in Brevard, I noticed the sun peaking through the clouds and decided to drive about 20 minutes down Highway 276. I traveled towards Cedar Mountain to Cascade Lake Road to Staton Road, where I found my destination– Hooker Falls in DuPont State Forest. The falls were named after Edmund Hooker, a local resident who operated a mill below the falls in the late 1800′s. This waterfall was featured in the 1992 film “Last of the Mohicans.”

Photo by Transylvania County Tourism/Tracy Turpen

I walked an easy quarter-mile on a wide dirt path through mountain laurels and hardwoods. With a cool mist on my face, I enjoyed listening to the rushing sound of water flowing into Cascade Lake. It was refreshing, invigorating and mystically beautiful. From the parking area, I went across the street and over a bridge to the trail leading to Triple Falls. This climb was a bit steeper, with a wide wooden staircase leading to the falls. It was well worth it, though, to see the breath-taking, three-tiered set of waterfalls, my favorite scene of the trip. I had to be careful because the rocks were wet and slippery, but there were plenty of safe vantage points that offered a gorgeous view of these falls. The best view was from the base of the falls looking skyward, with the sun’s rays casting prisms off fine water droplets. I could have stayed there for hours enjoying the view, but I was ready to see the next attraction, High Falls. High Falls is located just a short drive down Staton Road and a quarter-mile mile walk down Buck Forest Road leading to a covered bridge over the Little River. I learned the bridge was originally built in the year 2000 as part of a plan to develop the land for residential construction; fortunately, that plan fell through. The area of Brevard has a variety of waterfalls that each offer their unique beauty and surroundings. I would suggest taking a couple of days to enjoy both Brevard and all the stunning scenery that DuPont State Forest has to offer. Also, don’t forget Looking Glass Falls on the other side of Brevard, off Highway 64. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can try sliding down slippery boulders into a pool of crisp mountain water at another popular spot nearby called “Sliding Rock.” This mountain destination is a perfect trip for spring or summer when the rhododendrons are in bloom, during autumn with the region’s gorgeous colorful leaves, or even during the pristine quiet beauty of the winter months. Anytime is a great opportunity to escape the city life and enjoy the peaceful natural beauty of scenic Western North Carolina.