America's Scenic Byways

Waterfall Byway

98 miles - 3.5 hours

This aptly named byway winds its way through "the land of waterfalls". Beginning north of Rosman, North Carolina, the byway route passes through lands full of scenic wonder and historical significance. Bridal Veil Falls is a spectacular, 120 foot drop into the Cullasaja River below and nearby Dry Falls derives its name from the fact that visitors can walk behind the falls without getting wet. Byway towns such as Gneiss and Murphy are important landmarks concerning Native American history in North Carolina. Old resort towns, such Highlands (founded in 1875), are also located along the route. Murphy, located at the western end of the byway is the southern terminus of the Great Smoky Mountains Railway and was home to Fort Butler, a trading post set up in the 1800s. Don't miss the opportunity to drive this byway and experience, its rich history and the scenic wonder of the 200 waterfalls in the area surrounding the route.