If you’re looking for the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery, DuPont State Recreational Forest in Western North Carolina should be at the top of your list. Known for its stunning waterfalls, well-kept trails, and vibrant seasonal beauty, this forest is a gem for hikers and nature lovers alike. Spring and summer are beautiful times to visit, but fall is truly magical as Western North Carolina’s fall foliage bursts with color, and the fresh mountain air reinvigorates your soul.Â
While there are many things to do in Western N.C., exploring DuPont State Recreational Forest is one of our favorites. You’ll find scenic hikes that lead to rushing waterfalls, biking trails that weave through peaceful woodlands, and quiet spots for fishing or enjoying a picnic. It’s also a favorite filming location, with the iconic “Hunger Games waterfall” drawing fans from across the country. Whether you’re here for a day of photography, exploring the trails, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, it won’t take you long to see why Western North Carolina is one of the best weekend getaways in the South.
After a full day outdoors, nothing feels better than coming back to comfortable, welcoming accommodations, like those you’ll find at The Orchard Inn & Spa. As one of the best Hotels in Saluda, we provide a friendly atmosphere with plenty of charm, and we’re the romantic mountain retreat you’ve been craving. With historic touches, modern comforts, and a fantastic restaurant serving farm-to-table dinners, it’s the perfect home base for exploring DuPont State Recreational Forest and so much more. Book your room today!
The Waterfalls of DuPont State Recreational Forest
DuPont State Recreational Forest spans more than 10,000 acres of preserved land and it’s only a 40-minute drive from our Saluda Hotel. Once used by the DuPont Corporation, this area is now open to the public and maintained for recreation, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is most famous for its collection of waterfalls, which are among the best waterfalls in North Carolina.
But waterfalls aren’t all you’ll find here. DuPont State Forest also offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all interests. Fall is an ideal time to get out and chase waterfalls, though, and we’ve listed a few of our favorite DuPont State Park Waterfalls to check off your list.
- Hooker Falls is one of the most accessible DuPont State Forest waterfalls, making it perfect for families and casual hikers. The short, easy walk to the falls opens up to a wide curtain of water spilling into a calm pool below. During warmer months, it’s a popular spot for wading and swimming, offering a refreshing break after time on the trails. The broad pool also makes it a great place to relax with a picnic while listening to the soothing sound of rushing water.
- Bridal Veil Falls is unlike any other waterfall in the DuPont State Recreational Forest. Featured in the film, Last of the Mohicans, water slides gracefully over a sloping granite face, creating a delicate “veil” effect that inspired its name. The most memorable feature is the opportunity to walk behind part of the waterfall, offering visitors a rare perspective and a sense of being immersed in the cascade itself. The surrounding open rock slabs are perfect for exploration, and the area often shimmers in the sunlight, making it a favorite among photographers at Dupont State Forest.
- Triple Falls, NC is one of the most iconic sights in DuPont State Forest and a must-see for first-time visitors. The North Carolina waterfall tumbles down three distinct cascades, dropping a total of about 120 feet. A well-maintained trail and staircase lead to a large rock outcrop between the second and third falls, where you can get up close to the rushing water. The dramatic beauty of Triple Falls, also known as the Hunger Games falls, has made it one of the most photographed waterfalls in North Carolina.
- High Falls is the largest and most powerful waterfall in DuPont State Recreational Forest, plunging more than 120 feet over a wide rock face. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring, and during high water flow, the roar of the falls can be heard well before reaching the overlook. Several viewing areas allow visitors to take in the falls from different angles, including a covered bridge above the cascade that offers a unique vantage point. High Falls is exceptionally breathtaking in autumn, when the vibrant colors of the surrounding forest frame the rushing water for an unforgettable scene.
In addition to stunning waterfalls, DuPont State Recreational Forest offers a multi-use trail system perfect for mountain biking, horseback riding, and some of the most beautiful hiking in North Carolina. Dupont State Forest Trails range from easy loops to more advanced routes through diverse terrain, making it an excellent destination for every skill level. For sweeping views of the region, head to Stone Mountain or Cedar Rock Mountain, where granite outcrops and scenic overlooks create unforgettable photo opportunities.Â
The DuPont State Forest also provides designated areas for seasonal hunting, as well as streams and lakes that are popular for trout fishing. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or looking to get outside, DuPont State Recreational Forest has something for everyone.Â
Stay at One of the Best Hotels in Saluda
After a day exploring waterfalls and trails at DuPont State Recreational Forest, retreat to the romantic comfort of one of the best Hotels in Saluda, the Orchard Inn & Spa. Our warm accommodations combine historic character with modern luxury. Guestrooms, suites, and cottages are thoughtfully decorated with charming details and offer the comforts of home like plush bedding, luxurious robes, and custom-made toiletries. With a pillow menu and premium linens, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready for another day of exploring.
Each morning begins with a hearty, sumptuous breakfast served to refuel you for the adventures ahead. The long porch and outdoor fire pit are guest favorites, whether you’re sipping a glass of wine at sunset or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee in the morning. For an extra indulgence, the on-site spa provides massages and treatments that melt away the stress of daily life, making it easy to turn your getaway into something truly restorative while you enjoy fall in North Carolina.
Beyond luxurious guest rooms and friendly southern hospitality, what makes us one of the most sought-after hotels in Saluda is our on-site restaurant. Newman’s Restaurant is a farm-to-table restaurant where guests can enjoy fine dining without ever leaving the property. With a sumptuous pre-fixe menu and themed dinners throughout the year, not to mention an exquisite wine list, it’s easy to see why visitors continue to rank Newman’s as one of the best places to eat near Asheville.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a much-needed escape to the mountains of Western North Carolina this fall, there’s no doubt that our Saluda Hotel is the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and experience the very best of these scenic mountains. Book your couple’s getaway today!
