Outdoors dupont FOREST
HIGH FALLS
The Cedar Mountain community is the gateway to the forest, which is located 12 miles southeast of Brevard. There are little more than 7,000 acres of the forest in Transylvania County, while the remaining acres are in Henderson County.
There are 82 miles of forest roads and trails to explore by hiking, mountain biking or horseback riding. Almost all trails in the forest are multiple use, so trail courtesy among mountain bikers, hikers and equestrians allows users to have positive experiences. All users are cautioned to travel at safe speeds and be aware of changing trail conditions. Visitors should understand that this is a working forest and official vehicles are commonly encountered on the larger roads and trails.
The most popular destinations are Triple Falls and High Falls on the Little River, which bring in large crowds during the summer months. A 2.25-mile hike from the High Falls access area takes visitors to both waterfalls.
Bridal Veil Falls is a 2.5-mile hike from the High Falls access area, or 2.25 miles from the Fawn Lake access area on Reasonover Road. Access areas are often filled to capacity and the North Carolina Forest Service recommends visiting during the cooler months, weekdays or early in the morning.
One of the more difficult hikes is to the top of Stone Mountain, which has an elevation of 3,640 feet. Visitors who are up to the challenge will be rewarded with panoramic views.
The forest has five mountain lakes. Lake Julia is the largest( 99 acres) and can be reached from the Fawn Lake or High Falls access areas. Dense Lake is a beautiful spot with a picnic shelter and pier.
Anglers should know that all lakes are general waters and require an N. C. fishing license. A portion of the Little River is stocked with trout under the delayed harvest program.
Triple Falls, High Falls and Lake Imaging have picnic shelters that can be reserved for a fee. There are also picnic tables near Hooker Falls, Fawn Lake and Lake Julia.
VISITOR INFORMATION
– Trash pickup –
No trash pickup is provided in the forest, so visitors must pack out their trash. Cooking fires, including charcoal grills, are not allowed and camping is not permitted.
– Be aware –
Visitors should be aware they are entering an environment with natural hazards and should avoid being in areas where slipping and falling could result in serious injuries.
– Safety –
The most common forest rule violations concern animals at large( i. e., pets not on a leash and under control), littering and illegal climbing on rocks around the waterfalls. The forest staff enforces these rules with the intent to keep the forest a safe and enjoyable destination.
12 TRANSYLVANIA EXPLORER 2026