Discover the Waterfalls of US 64 in North Carolina
North Carolina has no shortage of great, scenic mountain roads for motorcyclists to explore. But even in this distinguished crowd, one section of US 64 stands out.
This federal highway is a long one, running over 2,200 miles from Nags Head on North Carolina’s eastern coast to Teec Nos Pos in northeastern Arizona. But what we’re interested in is one small stretch of asphalt in the Nantahala National Forest.
Here, US 64 forms an excellent, curvy two-lane playground for motorcycle riders. Connecting Franklin, NC, to Highlands, the fun lasts for 17 miles that roll through a waterfall wonderland.
Over those miles, you’ll rise roughly 2,000 feet from the lower areas surrounding Franklin to the mountains around the (appropriately named) town of Highlands. By the time you reach Lake Sequoyah, you’ll be at around 3,800 feet in elevation.
US 64 follows the meanders of the Cullasaja River as it flows down from the mountains. As such, the road has plenty of all kinds of curves in store for you.
Around Franklin, you’ll find some relaxed sweepers that take you past peaceful farmland in the foothills. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re riding through a pastoral painting.
The turns get tighter as you begin your climb up the mountains. You’ll even encounter a few hairpins along the way, so you might want to have some riding experience under your belt before tackling this road.
If the curves start tiring you out, there are plenty of great pull-outs at regular intervals along US 64. It’s worth it to stop at a couple of them in any case to admire the views.
Speaking of views, the waterfalls are the stars of the show. There are multiple gorgeous cascades right by the road, and I highly recommend you make time to visit each and every one.
The road surface on US 64 is in good to decent condition. However, you might still want to go through the turns slower than the locals—they know exactly what waits behind each twist, but you may not.
Due to the popularity of many of US 64’s waterfalls, there can be a good bit of traffic on the road, especially around holidays and in the fall. Even if the road is empty of cars, do keep an eye out for wildlife that may not always look both ways before crossing.
The waterfall section of US 64 is admittedly not very long. However, the entertaining and challenging curves and picturesque falls ensure that you can spend a whole day on it and still wish you had time for more.
Points of Interest
Waterfalls
This section of US 64 traverses a region with multiple picturesque waterfalls. As you approach Highlands from Franklin, you’ll pass Bust Your Butt Falls, Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Sequoyah Falls.
Each of the waterfalls is right by the road, requiring only a very brief walk to reach. Dry, Bridal Veil, and Sequoyah falls are pretty sights to see, but Bust Your Butt Falls is a popular swimming hole if you’d like to take a dip in the Cullasaja River.
Each cascade has pull-outs or full parking lots to accommodate visitors. They can get incredibly busy, though, so if there’s no readily available space, don’t block the road and return later.
Scottish Tartans Museum
You might not expect to learn about Scottish tartans up in the North Carolina mountains. However, the Scottish Tartans Museum is a fascinating look into Scottish-American heritage, which is strong in this region.
The museum was originally (and fittingly) established in Highlands in 1988. In 1994, however, it moved to Franklin to its current location.
At the museum, you can view samples of Scottish tartans, learn about their significance, and explore how the histories of Scotland and the U.S. entwine. Don’t forget to buy your own kilt at the gift shop before leaving.
Jackson Hole Gem Mine
Jackson Hole Gem Mine is a local family-run business that’s been in operation along US 64 since 1977. If you get caught in a downpour, this is a great opportunity to get out of the rain and try your hand at gem mining.
The clean, covered mine allows you to mine and wash a bucketful of semi-precious stones to take home with you. Even if you’re a complete novice of a miner, the staff will walk you through the entire process.
Should mining not be your idea of fun, it’s worth stopping by to browse the shelves and stands of the gem store. A shiny jewel makes for a great souvenir for that special someone.
Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a beautiful reservoir in Highlands. The small lake is a popular canoeing spot, offering you a chance to hop from the road onto the water.
Unfortunately, Mirror Lake has not been dredged appropriately in ages. As a result, sediment has gathered in some parts in such large amounts that canoes can’t pass over it.
Still, if you’d like to paddle around a while to stretch your arms, the clearer areas of the lake make that possible.
Facts & Info
Recommended Lodging: Skyline Lodge
Skyline Lodge is a mountaintop retreat located some 10 minutes away from downtown Highlands. It’s a scenic location that lets any rider savor the area’s beauty—but the lodge is at its best if you have your pillion rider with you.
The large rooms (starting at 250 square feet) offer you plenty of space to dry your gear and still lounge in comfort. Some have their own balconies on which you can sit and relax after the day’s ride.
There’s a well-rated restaurant and cafe on site, so you won’t have to return to town for dinner. Just sit back and relax in the idyllic mountain atmosphere.
Food & Dining
North Carolina is famous for its distinctive styles of barbecue—so much so that state authorities have enacted laws to define what is and isn’t authentic NC BBQ. Along US 64, you’ll find places to sample this regional delicacy, alongside other great eateries.
- Highlands Smokehouse: The Highlands Smokehouse serves mouthwatering barbecue, cooked in the largest underground smoking pit in the country. If you end your day’s ride in Highlands, you can also grab an excellent cocktail to go with the meal. Find it at 595 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC.
- Haywood Smokehouse: If you’re more of a fan of Texas-style barbecue, the Haywood Smokehouse in Franklin will satisfy your taste buds. The place doesn’t take reservations, though, so don’t wait too late in the day. Find it at 33 Macon Center Dr, Franklin, NC.
- On the Verandah: On the Verandah offers a more refined dining experience than juice-dripping barbecue. This upscale American restaurant sits by Lake Sequoyah, providing picturesque waterfront views to go with your meal. Find it at 1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC.
Best Time to Travel
Fall is likely the most popular time to head to the North Carolina mountains. The daytime temperatures are cool and mild, and the leaves burst into fall colors. September-October is a great time to ride US 64.
However, the fall foliage brings with it crowds of tourists to the waterfalls. For a (slightly) more solitary ride, you can hit the road in spring or summer (the latter may be hot, though). Winter riding up in the mountains is off the table in all likelihood.