Pros & cons
PROS
- Multiple viewpoints with very different angles of the falls and gorge
- Short, well-marked trails from the Parkway visitor center
CONS
- Busy on weekends and during peak leaf season
- Occasional trail closures after storms can limit access
Upper Falls Overlook is a designated viewpoint reached from the Linville Falls Visitor Center along the Erwin’s View trail system. It looks onto the upper cascades and the river narrowing toward the main falls. Stay behind the stone wall; swimming and climbing on the waterfall rocks are prohibited. Continue along the signed trail for Chimney View and Erwin’s View, which offer different downstream perspectives.
Where it is
35.9499, -81.9270Upper Falls Overlook
Tips for Upper Falls Overlook
- 01Start at the Parkway’s Linville Falls Visitor Center around MP 316.4.
- 02Arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid parking headaches.
- 03For the classic panorama, follow the Erwin’s View Trail; bring a zoom lens.
- 04Chimney View often lines up both tiers of the falls in one shot.
- 05After heavy rain or storms, ask rangers about any trail closures.
Amenities
Near Upper Falls Overlook
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLinville FallsClassic three-tier waterfall with big views into rugged Linville GorgeTrailhead · Restroom
0.1 mi awayUpper Linville FallsIntimate double cascade launching the river into Linville GorgeScenic Viewpoint
0.1 mi awayPlunge Basin OverlookShort hike to Linville Falls’ dramatic plunge-pool viewpointScenic Viewpoint
0.3 mi awayLinville Falls Visitor CenterTrailhead hub for every view of Linville Falls and the GorgeTrailhead · Restroom
0.3 mi awayPlunge Basin TrailRugged out-and-back to the Plunge Basin overlook and waterfall viewpointModerate · 1.8 mi · 1 hr
0.3 mi awayDuggers Creek Falls TrailTiny slot-canyon falls on a 0.3-mile loop by the visitor centerEasy · 0.3 mi · 18 min
0.3 mi awayLinville Falls Plunge Basin TrailShort, strenuous drop to Plunge Basin Overlook and views of Linville FallsModerate · 1 mi · 45 min
0.3 mi awayErwin’s View Trail (Linville Falls)Four big overlooks of Linville Falls on a short, moderate walk.Moderate · 1.6 mi · 1.3 hr
