Courthouse Falls

Courthouse Falls flows over a neat, scooped-out cliff into a deep, dark, churning pool. The little cove is lush and wet - overall it's a beautiful falls in a beautiful setting. The pool is popular for swimming, but beware of the killer undercurrents which swirl around down there, especially at the base of the falls.

Directions

Driving

It's a long drive from anywhere, but put it on the list if you're in the area. From the intersection of US Hwy. 64 and NC Hwy. 215 in Rosman (at Headwaters Outfitters), take 215 North for about 10 1/4 miles and turn right on gravel FR 140. Or, from the intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway and NC Hwy. 215, drive South on 215 for about 6 1/2 miles and make a left onto FR 140 (just past the bridge).

Follow FR 140 about 3 miles to a bridge over Courthouse Creek. Park in the wide area on the right at the Summey Cove trailhead. The road ends just ahead at a gate.

FR 140 has sometimes been in bad condition but at other times easily accessible to passenger cars. Some work has been done on it recently (after the floods of 2004) so hopefully it's smooth.

Trail

The hike is easy, but with a few rougher spots, and it's less than 15 minutes or so to the falls. Take the Summey Cove trail downstream along Courthouse Creek. Pass the top of the falls, and take the signed side path down to the base.